The use of retention sutures and tensed Silastic-Dacron strips for the prevention of stretch-back after alopecia-reducing procedures.
BACKGROUND
A comparison between using retention sutures (N = 25), a tensed Silastic-Dacron strip (N = 25), or nothing (N = 25) for the prevention of stretch-back (after alopecia-reducing procedures) was performed between 1990 and 1992.


OBJECTIVE
The purpose was to determine if retention sutures or a tensed Silastic-Dacron strip placed subgaleally from one donor fringe to the other would reduce the amount of stretch-back after alopecia-reducing procedures.


METHODS
A prospective study of a total of 75 patients was performed. The width of the bald area was measured immediately after the surgery and at 3 months with each of the three modalities.


RESULTS
Retention sutures resulted in some prevention of stretch-back. Tensed Silastic-Dacron strips totally prevented stretch-back and in some cases made the bald area compressed.


CONCLUSIONS
Retention sutures placed through subgaleal tunnels reduces stretch-back after alopecia-reducing procedures. Tensed Silastic-Dacron strips totally prevent stretch-back and in approximately half the cases compress the area of baldness.
Brandy
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Body and Facial Cosmetic Surgery Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
D000328:Adult; D000505:Alopecia / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011093:Polyethylene Terephthalates; D012535:Scalp / Q000601:surgery*; D012826:Silicone Elastomers; D013536:Suture Techniques; D013537:Sutures
D011093:Polyethylene Terephthalates; D012826:Silicone Elastomers