Midline alopecia reduction combined with hair transplantation

The advantages gained by incorporating alopecia reduction (AR) in patients undergoing hair transplantation, or with patients who have previously had hair transplantation, are delineated. The specific advantages of the midline elliptical pattern are discussed. Clinical considerations that determine whether ARs are necessary are the degree of baldness, laxity of the scalp, age of the patient, and ultimate goal of the individual. The advantages and disadvantages of performing ARs or hair transplantation first are discussed and the new concept of minireductions also outlined.