Dr. Zoran Lekic Shows Advantages of Using the Er:YAG Laser in Hair Transplantation

11 June 2010

In his research he evaluated VSP Er:YAG laser in hair transplantation performed in 26 male patients, and compared this with the results of a 12-year study of CO₂ laser hair transplantation. Preliminary results of surgical incision in hair transplantation are very promising using the VSP Er:YAG laser, which has fundamental advantages over alternative methods.

Compared to the conventional method, where slit grafts compress the transplanted hair and can create a raised, unnatural appearance after healing, the laser evaporates scalp tissue eliminating any potential cause of compression. Furthermore, compression could lead to hypoxia and hair growth failure, while laser treatment enables a higher density (of at least 20%) of transplanted hair. When comparing CO₂ and VSP Er:YAG laser treatments, Lekic finds that the classical CO₂ laser treatment produces significant thermal damage, which causes haemostatic injury, thus reducing the survival rate of implanted follicular units (70% yield). VSP Er:YAG laser, on the other hand, shows greater benefits as it enables cold ablation with a minimal thermal effect allowing better hair grafts survival. Unique Variable Square Pulse (VSP) Technology accurately controls thermal effects, enabling the optimization of the recipient site preparation for maximal yield of transplanted hair (90% -95%).

Lekic's research study using the VSP Er:YAG laser treatment showed excellent end results. At three months follow-up, all 26 patients showed healthy hair growth in the recipient site. Side effects were mild (edema, minor scabs) and temporary, resolving within the first two weeks following the procedure. Similarly to conventional methods, Er:YAG preserves graft oxygenation and the nutritive flow, keeping the follicle alive during its most vulnerable period. According to Dr. Lekic, VSP Er:YAG proves to be the laser of choice for modern hair transplantation.