Implanter Pen vs custom blade incisions for graft placement?

Question

I've had three FUT surgeries totaling aprox 9,500 grafts. I still have aprox 3,000 grafts in my donor 'bank' for FUE. I want someone who uses either the WAW system or the Cole system for extraction, however I have a placement question. I have found a doctor who uses an implanter pen. I understand this device is easier for the surgeon as it both cuts and implants the grafts, but how do the results compare to custom blades incisions? My previous surgeries were done with .62 - 1mm custom blades.

Jeffrey Epstein, MD, FACS · Answer

I strongly suggest, given your quite limited remaining donor supply, that you choose your surgeon not just by how he/she implants grafts, but the entire process.  I do agree, the WAW system is preferred system, and I use custom-sized blades typically 0.5 to 0.7mm, where I make every recipient site, then the grafts get implanted by my assistants using implanter pens.

Parsa Mohebi, MD, FISHRS · Answer

There are many techniques of FUE extraction and I have used most of them including the Robotic Systems. We have started using the Trivellini System which is a multiphasic extraction that minimizes the trauma to the grafts. Our grafts are healthier and the procedure is more efficient. We have used this system for over a year now. The preferred method of implantation in Parsa Mohebi Hair Restoration Center is Pre made sites and the Mohebi Inserter.  Mohebi Inserter is a new implanter that is used to load and implant grafts by the same person. The grafts are placed into premade sites. This helps to minimize the trauma to the grafts due to forceps or other methods of placement.

Mark Waldman, MD · Answer

I don’t think it matters as long as the surgeon is comfortable with what they are using.  I think if you are pleased with your previous results you should talk that surgeon if you already have a good relationship with them.  
We still mainly use forceps but are moving toward blunt implanters in premade sites.

Sara Wasserbauer, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Either way will work well. It up to the surgeons discretion on which they prefer. Make sure you go to a highly recommended surgeon since this will be your final transplant,

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

This is a surgeons choice and it does not matter which approach is used provided that the surgeon and the staff are highly skilled. We have both technologies but most of the time use forceps placement with the WOW extraction for FUE

Implanter Pen vs custom blade incisions for graft placement?

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Implanter Pen vs custom blade incisions for graft placement?

Answers (5)

Answer: Technique

Answer: Technique

Answer: Hair Implanter pens

Answer: Hair Implanter pens

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Everything you need to know about Hair Transplant

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