Hair Transplant Basics:
Hybrid Grafting Technique
The use of larger grafts for the top and non-central portion of the crown
and smaller grafts for the frontal hairline and perimeter of the transplant
has a variety of names including the Hybrid Technique, Blend Grafting
and Variagrafting. Although this hybrid approach is detectable on close
inspection, it may not be noticeable in a social setting unless the hair
is wet or the patient is in bright sunlight. The results are best in patients
who have curly, white or very blonde hair. Although the look from a distance
of two to three feet in soft lighting may be relatively undetectable,
on closer inspection it always is; and it will never fool the barber.
In individuals with curly or wavy hair, the hybrid approach may be a reasonable
way to reduce the costs of the process. For individuals with straight
hair, such an approach can be disastrous, particularly if the color of
the hair stands out against distinctly contrasting skin tones. The hybrid
procedure generally costs less, and can be performed without the intense
labor required for larger sessions of small grafts. The larger grafts
may range from 1.5 mm in size to more than 2 mm in size. Another disadvantage
for those who will accept the hybrid compromise is that the larger grafts
may become more evident when further balding occurs, particularly when
recession allows them to be viewed from a different angle. The hybrid
approach is more a short-term economic solution than a long-term one and
is not recommended by NHI physicians.
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