Analysis of Changes in Scalp Skin Thickness According to Age and Sex Based on Ultrasonography and Histometry

Abstract

Background

This study investigates scalp skin thickness using ultrasonography and histometry, exploring its relationship with age and sex.

Methods

The study data were obtained from split-thickness skin grafting using hairy scalp skin as the donor site in 102 Korean patients. The skin thickness of the donor scalps was measured using preoperative ultrasound in all 102 patients, and the histometric thickness of a 3-mm punch biopsy near the donor site was measured in 61 patients postoperatively. The scalp skin thickness was statistically analyzed according to age and sex.

Results

The mean ultrasonographic thickness was 1.71 ± 0.41 mm, while the mean histometric thickness was 1.93 ± 0.47 mm. The difference was statistically significant (p < 0.001). Regression analysis showed a significant relationship between ultrasonographic scalp skin thickness and age, but not sex. Thickness increased up to 20 years, with no significant change beyond that.

Conclusion

Scalp skin thickness correlates with age, but not sex. Preoperative ultrasonography is crucial for assessing scalp skin thickness, especially for younger patients under 21 years, to optimize scalp grafting outcomes.

Keywords

histometry - scalp skin grafting - scalp skin thickness - ultrasonography

Note

This work was presented at the Aesthetic Plastic Surgery 2024 Conference.

Authors' Contributions

S.J.O. was responsible for conceptualization, data collection, and editing. S.H.L. was responsible for writing an original draft. C.H.J. and K-Y.S. were responsible for writing and reviewing. J.D.K. was responsible for statistical analysis. J.T.K. was responsible for resources.

Ethical Approval

The study was approved by the Institutional Review Board (BMC 2024-05-007) and performed in accordance with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki.

Patient Consent

Written informed consent was obtained.

Publikationsverlauf

Eingereicht: 14. Juni 2024

Angenommen: 25. Juni 2025

Accepted Manuscript online:
02. Juli 2025

Artikel online veröffentlicht:
01. September 2025

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