Direct No-Shave Follicular Unit Excision (DNS FUE): A Modified Technique and Case Series.

Area of Science:

• Surgical Dermatology
• Hair Restoration Surgery
• Androgenetic Alopecia Treatment

Background:

• Follicular Unit Excision (FUE) is a minimally invasive hair transplant method.
• The requirement to shave the donor area is a significant barrier for patients seeking discretion.
• Existing FUE techniques necessitate donor-area shaving, impacting patient aesthetics and psychosocial well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a refined direct no-shave follicular unit excision (DNS FUE) technique.
• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of DNS FUE in reducing donor-area shaving requirements.
• To assess graft integrity and donor-site density preservation with the modified technique.

Main Methods:

• A refined direct no-shave follicular unit excision (DNS FUE) method was applied to 10 patients.
• The technique utilized the Trivellini Flared Ring punch under intravenous sedation.
• The study focused on patients with Norwood Class IV and Ludwig Class 2 androgenetic alopecia.

Main Results:

• An average of 4,600 follicular units were extracted per procedure.
• The modified technique resulted in a mean graft transection rate of 3%.
• High patient-reported satisfaction was observed, indicating aesthetic favorability.

Conclusions:

• The refined DNS FUE technique effectively eliminates the need for donor-area shaving.
• The use of the flared ring punch contributes to reduced follicular trauma and low transection rates.
• This modified DNS FUE approach presents a discreet and aesthetically favorable option for selected hair restoration candidates.