Should “Neophyte” Hair Transplant Surgeons Use the Device?
One of the biggest concerns with the advent of automated FUE devices is the potential for untrained or inexperienced surgeons and/or technicians using these devices. As these machines become more advanced and independent, inexperienced or untrained physicians or technicians may become tempted to purchase and profit from the ARTAS system. However, many experts, including Dr. Jerry Cooley believe this is dangerous. Below, Dr. Cooley explains the problems with neophyte surgeons and/or untrained technicians using the ARTAS device:
This has me very concerned. My experience with the ARTAS system has been overwhelmingly positive, but I cannot imagine trying to operate the device without all my years of FUE experience. Furthermore, even if the neophyte were able to extract high quality grafts consistently, that represents only the graft harvesting part of the entire hair restoration treatment plan. This plan spans everything from the consultation where graft needs are assessed, medications are prescribed, realistic expectations are set to the aesthetics of hairline design/graft distribution and site creation/graft implantation.
Acquiring an automated FUE device does not make one an expert in all these areas. And delegating these to technicians who do not have a license to practice medicine raises serious legal and ethical issues. Ultimately, the ARTAS is a device, and nothing more. It is the physician and his or her staff that will determine the success of the procedure and whether the patient is satisfied with the outcome.