Tissue expansion is a proven method for addressing post-burn scalp baldness, though it typically involves a two-stage surgical process. Here’s how it works:
- In the first stage, a silicone balloon-like implant is strategically placed beneath the healthy skin adjacent to the bald area on the scalp.
- Over time, the implant is gradually expanded at regular intervals until it provides enough skin coverage for the bald patch.
- The second stage of surgery involves the removal of the expander, followed by the excision of the bald patch. The area is then replaced with the expanded, normal hair-bearing skin.
This approach offers several advantages over traditional hair transplant techniques. By using adjacent skin for reconstruction, we achieve an excellent match in terms of skin color, texture, and thickness. This minimizes the risk of rejection and leaves only a single suture line along the scar margins.
The procedure is conducted in two stages, with the first involving expander placement and the second focusing on expander removal and flap advancement. Patients are typically discharged within a day or two after the first surgery, and stitches are removed around the 12th day. Approximately two weeks after the surgery, the expander is gradually inflated with normal saline fluid at weekly intervals. Once the desired expansion is achieved, usually within 8-12 weeks, the patient returns for the second stage of surgery to finalize the reconstruction.
Post-operatively, patients stay in the hospital for 2-3 days, and their progress is closely monitored to ensure optimal results. At Kayakriti, we have successfully treated numerous patients with post-burn scar hair loss.
