Recycling of Previously Transplanted Hair: A Novel Indication for Follicular Unit Extraction

BACKGROUND: Hair transplantation has enhanced the realm of procedural dermatology. Before the advent of follicular transplantation, androgenetic alopecia was a difficult disease to manage, as there is a limited armamentarium of topical and systemic pharmaceuticals. However, as with other novel surgical procedures, there is a steep learning curve, that may result in poor transplantation or cosmesis. CASE REPORT: We present a case of androgenetic alopecia, where previously, poorly implanted hairs were recycled by follicular unit extraction to increase hair density at the vertex of the scalp, which resulted in improved cosmesis and patient satisfaction. CONCLUSION: We have demonstrated that re-transplantation is not only feasible but is effective; therefore redesigning of previous transplantations should be considered as a possible indication follicle unit extraction, particularly in the setting of scarce follicular reserves. The utility of our recycling method may also inspire hope in patients that have undergone failed or unsatisfactory hair transplantations.