Planning for maximum coverage in surgical hair restoration.

[BACKGROUND] Previous articles in this publication have suggested that an isolated frontal forelock is probably the best objective for a majority of patients undergoing hair transplantation.

[OBJECTIVE] This communication disputes the advisability of an isolated frontal forelock for a majority of hair transplant patients.

[METHODS] Previous studies and publications indicate a relatively low incidence of extensive male pattern baldness. Newer harvesting techniques require relatively small donor a areas to yield large numbers of grafts. Alopecia reduction can significantly improve the donor/recipient area ratio, and minigrafting can produce very natural looking results with less donor graft utilization. All of the preceding are presented to support the position of the author.

[RESULTS] Limiting oneself to an isolated frontal forelock is an overly conservative objective for a sizable majority of patients.

[CONCLUSION] The isolated frontal forelock is a wise goal for a minority of patients who should be chosen on the basis of their limited objectives as well as their family history and a careful physical examination at the time of presentation. For most patients, more extensive coverage remains a reasonable option.