Using Pork Skin as a Practice Medium for Learning Hair Transplantation Techniques

Abstract

A simple technique using pork skin and excess hair and epidermis harvested from anti-wrinkle surgeries was used to practice hair transplantation techniques. This allows inexperienced physicians to practice and perform the traditional steps of hair transplantation without involving an actual patient in the early stages of perfecting technique. The technique uses pork skin during the procedure, while performing real-time hair transplantation simulation. The surgical result of the procedure can then be visualized, and the training process can be repeated at will; peer evaluation is performed after completion. Results showed that residents that practiced this technique scored consistently better than those without the same training background. Every score increased with practice, and the length of time needed to complete the hair transplantation process decreased. A simple technique using pork skin for practicing hair transplantation technique is a valuable training tool, and gives residents a way to practice sound techniques along with more precise anatomical familiarity for hair transplantation surgery, without the risks associated with training on live patients.