Cutis Verticis Gyrata Treament

Q: Dr. Eppley, I have a mild/moderate case of cutis verticis gyrata on the top of my head consisting of four ridges going from my temples to the rear of my head. Through research i found that you do fat grafting to minimize the grooves. I am begining to lose my hair and would like to have a relatively normal shaped head so that I can shave it without feeling self conscious. Do you have any before and after pictures of this procedure and approximate cost? I live out of state so it would be difficult to be there for a consultation, any info would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

A: There are no known effective methods that are proven to reverse or partially reverse the effects of cutis verticis gyrata. I am treating such cases with linear groove release and fat injections but the success of that treatment approach, as logical and biologically based as it is, remains to be further evaluated long-term. Short-term results show good improvement, although not complete smoothing of the scalp, but its long-term effects remains to be seen. In particular will secondary fat grafting be needed for further improvement.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana