Can nurses (RNs) perform FUE hair restoration?

Question

I had FUE hair restoration (Neograft) done last year in California. However, the doctor did not do anything. They delegated the graft harvesting, incisions, and placing to two nurses. The doctor was in the operating room for only a few minutes. 14 months later and the results are poor. I have had three consultations with other doctors since, and they all said it was illegal to delegate FUE to nurses, saying only a doctor can harvest grafts and make incisions. Is it illegal for RNs to do FUE?

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

I am not a legal expert, but the delegation of tasks in medical procedures can vary by jurisdiction. In many places, only licensed physicians are allowed to perform certain aspects of hair transplant procedures, such as graft harvesting and making incisions. It's crucial to consult with a legal professional or a relevant medical board in your area to get accurate information about the legality of such practices.

Best of luck !

John Peter Cole, MD · Answer

First, if you see the term Neograft, this means an assistant will do the surgery and the physician most likely cannot do the surgery. The physician does not know how to do the surgery. My understanding is that in california an RN can do the extractions if they physician has trained the nurse to do this procedure. If the assistant is not an RN, they are not allowed to do the surgery. You can contact the state medical board for help.
Remember, Neograft is synonymous with assistant does all the surgery.

Matt Tahsini, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.  Doctors, Nurse Practitioners (NP), and Physician Assistants (PA) can perform hair transplants. That being said, the laws might differ from state to state or country to country.  I would advise you to check with the medical board if you want to be certain.  Best of luck to you.

Dr. T

Can nurses (RNs) perform FUE hair restoration?

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Can nurses (RNs) perform FUE hair restoration?

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Everything you need to know about NeoGraft

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.