Transection

Transection refers to the partial or complete cutting of a hair follicle that renders it nonviable for transplantation or natural regrowth. This most commonly occurs during surgical procedures such as follicular unit extraction or when creating recipient sites, and is influenced by factors like the angle and curl of the hair, scar tissue in the donor area, the type and size of instruments used, and operator technique and experience.

The practical consequence of transection is a lower yield of usable grafts, which can reduce final density and compromise the cosmetic result. Surgeons minimize transection by careful preoperative assessment, selecting appropriate punches or blades, using magnification and precise angulation, employing gentle extraction techniques, and monitoring transection rates during the procedure to adjust technique as needed.