A novel model for designing and performing parietal whorl hair transplantation

BACKGROUND: Hair transplantation is the gold standard method for the treatment of alopecia. Recently, demand for the surgery has increased rapidly. However, high demands also require more professional training for the surgeons. With the maturing of hairline design skills, parietal whorl design has become the next challenge and no appropriate training models have yet been reported. AIMS: To present an innovative, simple, and appropriate training model for designing the scalp parietal whorl. METHODS: Outward divergent arc curves were drawn from the navel of an orange. Recipient sites were created with 23G needles or 1.0-mm knives or 1.0-mm blades according to the outward divergent arc curves, then hair shafts were transplanted using forceps. RESULTS: Different densities of hair shafts were transplanted. Transplantation of 10-20 follicular units (FU)/cm(2) was too sparse, 30 FU/cm(2) achieved a good appearance, but 40-50 FU/cm(2) was better. Through practicing on the model, excellent results of parietal whorl transplantation on patients can be achieved. CONCLUSIONS: This new model can perfectly suit the lines and direction of the parietal whorl and also present different density transplantation practicing. We provide a training method for new surgeons as well as a rehearsal opportunity for previously trained doctors.