Regarding the Death of Density Debate
December 1999
in “
Dermatologic Surgery
”
TLDR Achieving original hair density with transplants is unrealistic; skilled practitioners are essential for the best results.
Dr. Walter Unger responded to Dr. Marritt's article on hair density, emphasizing that noticeable thinning requires a 50% reduction in hair density and that follicular unit hair transplanting (FUHT) cannot achieve original hair density. Unger argued that 100 hairs/cm² would appear fully dense, criticizing the need for 200 hairs/cm². He stressed the importance of skilled practitioners to avoid graft mishandling. Dr. Marritt countered, noting independent hair counts averaged 160 hairs/cm² and questioned the feasibility of achieving 200 hairs/cm² consistently, highlighting the logistical challenges and high standards required for successful FUHT. Both agreed on the necessity of skilled practitioners for optimal results.