Aesthetic considerations in scalp reconstruction

This article reviews common methods of reconstructive surgery in patients with wounds that involve the scalp, including primary wound repair, healing by secondary intention, and the use of skin grafts, local tissue flaps, regional myocutaneous flaps, and microvascular free flaps. Special attention is paid toward consideration of aspects of the reconstruction that affect the aesthetic outcome, including preservation of the hairline and hair follicle orientation, scar camouflage, avoidance of alopecia, and secondary restoration of alopecia.