The forth FoundHair Training Course was an opportunity for doctors of different specialties to learn about hair transplantation procedures. We had an internal medicine doctor, anesthesiologist, general surgeon, otolaryngologist, dermatologist, plastic surgeon, cosmetic doctor, and several facial plastic surgeons attending this time. Doctors arrived from different parts of the world to attend the course. We had the pleasure to host three fellows of American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) and to introduce the possibility of developing hair practices in their careers. Two nurses also attended the course and were trained more in technical aspects of the procedures.
As during our previous courses, what we emphasized the most was FUE – still the most requested method to harvest grafts from the donor area. Attendees were able to closely observe how we determine the safe donor area, calculate the number of grafts we need to obtain, how to decide on the size of the punch used in each patient and lastly to observe how good quality grafts are obtained. With our own method for FUE, while demonstrating the technique, we also managed to teach how to be efficient and to get large numbers of grafts within a short period of time.
FUT method remains a good and reliable method to get a high number of grafts (over 2000). Dr. Epstein demonstrated how he determines the size of the strip he needs in order to obtain certain number of grafts. He demonstrated his closing technique in order to minimize the scarring and he explained why he does not extend the incision beyond the very back of the head. A Hybrid procedure, combination of FUT and FUE, is an excellent technique to ensure even higher number of grafts (2500-3000).
Dr. Epstein was focused on making sure doctors understand how natural hairlines are made in women and men and to capture every detail that will make their results better. During this course, we demonstrated how hairline, crown, eyebrow, and beards are created. Dr. Epstein pointed out the importance of: angulation, distribution and orientation of the grafts in each area.
Afternoons are always reserved for lectures so Drs. Kuka and Epstein can cover some elements of hair restoration procedures beyond that covered during the surgeries. This time is a great opportunity to discuss challenging cases and whatever was on the surgical program for that day.
Mercy, our experienced tech, is in charge of teaching doctors how to handle grafts, and how to properly sliver and dissect them under the microscope- always a fun part of the course.
Elsa, one of our best technicians, is guiding a planting workshop with Dr. Kuka. The two of them spent a couple of hours in order to make sure each nurse and doctor that attended the course has learned how to properly hold and place a graft.
Selfie for the end of the course after certificates have been given to doctors. We got very nice feedback from doctors who started doing their own cases a week after our course. It makes us very content to train new generations of hair transplant doctors.
