Robotic Hair Transplant Systems: A Doctor's Perspective

What Are Robotic Hair Transplant Systems?

Robotic hair transplant systems, such as the ARTAS system, are designed to assist surgeons in performing Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) procedures. These systems use advanced imaging and robotic arms to extract individual hair follicles from the donor area and create recipient sites on the scalp. The concept behind robotic systems is to enhance the precision and speed of hair transplantation, reducing the risk of human error and potentially improving graft survival rates (Bernstein et al., 2012).

The ARTAS system, for example, uses digital imaging to identify and select optimal grafts, and its robotic arm extracts them with minimal trauma. This system also allows the surgeon to design the recipient area digitally, offering a high degree of control over hairline design and density distribution. While this technology seems promising, it is important to assess its practicality and outcomes compared to manual FUE techniques.

Are Robotic Systems Superior to Manual FUE Techniques?

One of the primary advantages of robotic systems is their consistency. The robotic arm does not tire, and its precision can, in theory, lead to more consistent grafts. However, there are several limitations. Firstly, robotic systems still require significant human oversight. The surgeon must guide the machine, adjust settings, and manage the overall procedure. Moreover, robotic systems can struggle with certain hair types, particularly curly or afro-textured hair, as the robotic algorithms are optimised for straight hair (Rassman & Pak, 2013).

Additionally, there is evidence to suggest that manual FUE performed by an experienced surgeon can achieve comparable, if not superior, results to robotic methods (Yazdabadi et al., 2020). A skilled surgeon can adapt to the nuances of individual hair types and scalp characteristics in a way that robotic systems cannot. Furthermore, robotic systems have a steep learning curve, and not all clinics have surgeons trained to operate them effectively.

The Cost of Robotic Hair Transplant Systems

The cost of a robotic hair transplant is generally higher than manual FUE procedures. This is due to the significant investment required for the robotic equipment and the ongoing maintenance costs. While the ARTAS system can offer advantages in terms of speed and precision, these benefits may not justify the increased cost for all patients. In the UK, the cost of hair transplant procedures varies widely, but robotic methods can add a premium to the overall price. Patients should weigh the benefits of robotic precision against the expertise and adaptability of a skilled surgeon performing manual FUE.

Should You Choose a Robotic Hair Transplant?

When deciding between robotic and manual hair transplant methods, consider factors such as hair type, the complexity of the procedure, and budget. For most patients, a well-executed manual FUE by a qualified surgeon offers excellent results. At My Hair UK, we focus exclusively on manual FUE techniques, as we believe this approach provides the best balance of precision, adaptability, and value for our patients.

References

• Bernstein, R.M., Rassman, W.R., Rashid, R.M., & Shiell, R.C. (2012). Robotic hair restoration: new advances in FUE technology. Dermatologic Surgery, 38(7), 1044-1052. PubMed
• Rassman, W.R., & Pak, J.P. (2013). The ARTAS robotic system. Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery, 6(1), 1-2. PubMed
• Yazdabadi, A., Patwardhan, N., & Simha, R. (2020). Manual versus robotic follicular unit extraction: A comparative analysis. International Journal of Trichology, 12(4), 156-160. PubMed