At the ISHRS 33rd World Congress in Berlin, a new Masterclass format will be introduced—two in-depth sessions daily over three days, each offering 60-minute deep dives into specialized topics.
Drs. Christian Bisanga and Patrick Mwamba will be leading the “Afro Hair Master Class.”
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Watch Master Class Intro Video
Summary Notes for Master Class Intro Video
Intro discussion on the upcoming Afro Hair Masterclass at the ISHRS 33rd World Congress in Berlin: “Afro Hair Master Class.”
Introduction:
Dr. Sam Lam, Chair for the ISHRS 33rd World Congress, speaks with Dr. Christian Bisanga and Dr. Patrick Mwamba, two recognized experts in afro hair transplantation. Together, they preview the Afro Hair Masterclass—a 60-minute session designed to address the challenges of afro hair, with a focus on device selection, harvesting techniques, and adapting to evolving technologies.
Key Discussion Points:
[00:00:00] Why Focus on Afro Hair?
- Dr. Lam introduces the new Masterclass format at ISHRS Berlin—two in-depth sessions daily over three days—and emphasizes why afro hair merits its own dedicated masterclass.
- Afro hair restoration is described by Dr. Christian Bisanga as “the most misunderstood procedure,” requiring specialized skills due to the unique curvature and fragility of afro-textured follicles.
[00:00:49] Device Selection and Pearls in Harvesting Afro Hair
- Dr. Bisanga shares that his preferred device is the Zeus, citing its punch shape as ideal for encompassing curved follicles while reducing epidermal trauma. He uses both oscillation and rotation modes to minimize transection.
- Dr. Mwamba explains his preference for the WAW Duo, especially due to its smaller punch size (0.95mm), which creates smaller skin incisions and yields quality grafts. For more difficult cases, like C-shaped follicles, he prefers the Zeus.
- Both experts highlight the importance of individualized punch size:
- Dr. Bisanga alternates between 18- and 19-gauge punches depending on follicle size and desired density.
- Dr. Mwamba adjusts based on case complexity, balancing between punch size and post-operative healing.
[00:07:04] Manual Technique vs. Device-Led Harvesting
- Dr. Lam notes that devices like the WAW Duo provide tactile feedback, allowing the practitioner to “feel” the graft.
- Dr. Mwamba describes moving from manual to hybrid punches, noting that modern devices “suck” the graft into place, reducing the need for manually following the curl of the follicle. He advises surgeons to “let the tool lead you.”
- Dr. Bisanga concurs, explaining that modern punches naturally accommodate follicle curves, requiring practitioners to adapt from traditional manual methods to more device-led harvesting.
[00:09:47] Closing Remarks and Masterclass Invitation
- Dr. Lam emphasizes that afro hair restoration’s complexity cannot be adequately taught in brief sessions and encourages attendance at the Berlin masterclass for a comprehensive, hands-on learning experience.
Conclusion:
This session preview highlights the necessity of specialized techniques and evolving technologies to address the unique challenges of afro hair restoration. The Afro Hair Masterclass promises a comprehensive dive into optimizing device use, punch selection, and technique refinement.
Don’t miss the full presentation and in-depth training at the Afro Hair Masterclass, part of the ISHRS 33rd World Congress in Berlin, Germany, from October 23 to 25, 2025.