What Is Trichophytic Closure? Does It Improve The Hair Transplant Scar?

Trichophytic Closure on Scar Revision

I am really struggling with the idea of having a hair transplant and being left with a long scar on the back of my head. I recently read an article about a new technique called trichophytic closure. The article stated that this technique promotes the growth of hair through scar tissue, is this really possible? Have I understood this correctly and does this mean that I will be left with no scar after a hair transplant? Please explain. Thanks! -Ben
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Thank you for your question. The trichophytic closure is a method of preparing one side of the surgical wound to allow the hair follicles on the margin of the incision to produce hair that will grow through the scar. There are several methods of preparing the incision to allow this but there is no clear “correct” way to do this. If done properly, and the outcome successful, the hair growing through the scar will camouflage the typical straight linear appearance of the scar. What this means is that the scar will still be present but less visible. Typically this technique will allow a person to wear their hair shorter without the scar being visible, but it is not likely that the person will be able to shave their head without any apparent difference between the strip site and the non-scarred skin in the area. The reason for this is that the scar tissue is still somewhat different in appearance from non-scarred skin and there is a subtle but definite change in the direction the hair that grows through the scar making the scar line stand out from the surrounding scalp.

You should also know that not all trichophytic closures result in a scar that is any better in appearance than a standard strip closure. Unfortunately we do not know which patients, depending on skin and hair characteristics, make the best candidates for this surgery. Another issue is that often when the hair is growing through the scar during the healing phase, there may be more inflammation and discomfort as compared to the standard closure. Some physicians also prefer not to use a trichophytic closure when it is anticipated that you will need several strips harvested over the long term, preferring to use the trichophytic closure on the “final” procedure.

I would suggest that you see a physician who has experience in this type of closure and discuss the pros and cons of this procedure. Here is an example of a trichophytic closure on a scar revision case.

Trichophytic Closure On Scar Revision Case

James Harris, MD
Member, International Alliance of Hair Restoration Surgeons
Member, American Hair Loss Association

James Harris, MD, FACS James A. Harris, MD, FACS is an internationally prominent surgeon in the field of hair restoration surgery, and a published author of both medical and consumer publications. He is a faculty member of the University of Colorado School of Medicine, where he teaches hair transplantation to resident physicians in training and community physicians. As director of the Hair Sciences Center of Colorado (HSC), he has established a practice dedicated exclusively to providing the very best in medical and surgical treatments for hair loss. As part of this commitment, patient education and the highest standards of care are his first priority. Dr. Harris personally consults with every patient and is always the physician performing the surgery at HSC. Supported by an exceptionally experienced team of nurses and technicians specialized in hair replacement surgery, Dr. Harris' standard of care does not end with surgery. Personalized follow-up attention is provided after the procedure, starting the very next day. This care continues until the hair is grown out and the patient is satisfied. Dr. Harris is a member of the International Alliance of Hair Restoration Surgeons and recommended by the American Hair Loss Association. Visit Dr. Harris Website: www.hsccolorado.com

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