Linear Grafting Using a Modified Slot Method: Introducing the Linear Punch

Abstract

Seeking the overall goal of patient satisfaction, hair transplant surgeons have attempted to combine naturalness with density. This article presents a study of 250 hair transplant patients. In the study, linear slots are compared to other methods of creating hair transplant receptor sites. Punch grafts, micrografts, and linear grafts are compared on six parameters: healing time, time to growth, visibility after 3 weeks, hairline naturalness, hair density, and patient satisfaction. The results indicate that linear grafting using a modified slot method creates a natural swirl of hair more effectively than traditional methods. Two thousand to four thousand hairs can be transplanted in approximately 2–3 hours and healing is quick. Linear grafting avoids both the usual compression and tufting of slits associated with slit grafts and the vascularity problems associated with incisions created with lasers.