Follicular Splaying and Graft Integrity

Short answer

Splaying is divergence beneath the skin of follicles belonging to the same follicular unit.[1][2]

Anatomy and biomechanical mechanism

Three-hair or four-hair units that look close together at the surface may occupy a wider area at depth.[1][2]

Risks and limits of the evidence

A narrow punch can cause partial transection, while an unnecessarily large punch removes more tissue.[1][2][3]

Clinical assessment and quality control

Microscopic examination of initial grafts and harvesting adapted to follicular type are important.[1][2]

KSD planning note

The width of multi-hair units at depth is considered during planning. A closely grouped surface appearance does not prove that a narrow punch will extract the unit safely.

Topic-specific questions

Does splaying mean the hairs are far apart on the surface?

No. It describes subsurface divergence of follicles within the same unit.

Is surface inspection of a multi-hair unit sufficient?

No. Initial graft checks and adaptation to anatomical characteristics matter.

Scientific references

This is referenced clinical information, not original clinical research or proof of technical superiority. Individual decisions require medical assessment.