Removably located within an elongated epithelium-lined tract (tunnel) surgically formed in the subcutaneous layer of the scalp is the elongated subdermal portion of a scalp anchor. Mounted on at least one end of the subdermal member is a flange or tab, closely overlying the subjacent surface of the scalp, the flange being attachable to an overlying hairpiece. A plurality of such anchors securely yet removably retains the hairpiece in the desired position on the scalp.

The provision of hair at selected areas of the human scalp by attaching one or more hairpieces in strip form to a plurality of rings which pass through the scalp at spaced locations in such area and are threaded on an endless suture embedded under the scalp is disclosed. Surgical procedure for embedding the endless suture under the scalp and threading the rings thereon are described. A preferred combination of suture, rings and hairpiece is disclosed.

A method of applying hair in which individual suture loops are sewn into the scalp and wefts of hair are anchored between or along the sutures. The ends of each suture are secured together by intertwining the end portions and sewing a thin thread through and around the end portions. The suture is a thread made from a synthetic polymer which is impregnated or coated with an inert substance such polytetrafluoroethylene or a silicone. Alternatively, at least the portion of the suture which is embedded in the scalp and is made of any flexible material, is encased in a sleeve in which the suture may slide without irritating the subcutaneous area of the scalp.

The method comprises inserting a securing device with skin graft wrapped therearound through an incision in the skin to a subcutaneous region of the body. The skin graft has its epidermis facing the securing device and is joined to the body surface skin at the incision to form a pouch for containing the securing device. The prosthesis is then attached to the securing device. The device comprises a base member for subcutaneous disposition and a post on the base extending to the surface of the body skin. An opening through the post and the base member facilitates attaching the prosthesis to the securing device and permits the pouch to be irrigated by forcing fluid through the opening. Channels in the surface of the base of the device disburse irrigation fluid throughout the pocket for effective cleansing of the pouch. Ridges formed on the post and the base inhibit contractural growth of the pouch from sealing against the securing device and preventing irrigation. The apparatus for attaching the prosthesis to the securing device includes a fastener on the prosthesis with a protuberance adapted to be press fitted into a cavity in a plug sealingly connected to the post in the opening therein by a bayonet connection. The bayonet connection permits the plug to be removed when it is desired to irrigate the pouch.

A method of treating baldness is disclosed which includes the implantation of strands of natural or artificial hair beneath the scalp and into the subcutaneous tissue. The method contemplates pre-forming the strands of hair into a U-shaped loop which can be implaced beneath the scalp by means of a penetration instrument in an arcuate or concave configuration with respect to the scalp for improved retention properties. Apparatus is also disclosed for carrying out the method which will facilitate implanting the hair in the manner just described and which is also capable of disengaging the hair from the penetration instrument for removal of the instrument and which is further capable of injecting tissue adhesives and hemostatic agents into the tissue surrounding the hair to stabilize it and assist the healing and anchoring process. It is also possible to perform the method of this invention without pre-forming the strand except to the extent that it is formed when placed on the penetration instrument.