The limitation of primary excision of cicatricial alopecia: a report of 63 patients.

This 11-year retrospective study (1985-1996) of 63 patients demonstrates that cicatricial alopecia is almost always distressing for the patient and is considered as a social handicap, which makes repair a necessity. Two major therapeutic methods for remedying this condition were used in the study: suture excision and tissue expansion. The optimal use and limitations of each method are defined on the basis of treatment quality, as evaluated by the patient and the surgeon. Suture excision often ends with disappointing results for the surgeon as well as the patient and seems limited to alopecias no greater than 10 mm in width. Tissue expansion is considered generally satisfactory, but has the problem of scar enlargement, which reduces the quality of the result.