Extension apparatus for artificial hair implants

Abstract

Extension devices for attaching hair extension elements to artificial hair elements that protrude from a subcutaneously implanted hair implant anchor body. One extension device involves a cylindrical structure having respective cavities on opposing ends. One cavity receives the distal end of the artificial hair element while the other cavity receives the hair extension therein. Another extension device involves a hair extension element forming a first portion of the device while a second opposite portion includes a projection that is received inside a hollow interior of the artificial hair element. A third extension device involves a core having a hair extension element projecting from one side of the core while a single cavity is located on a second side, opposite the one side, and which receives the distal end of the artificial implanted hair element therein. The hair extension may comprise ancillary hair elements and bud structures. Ornamental structures may be included on the distal ends of the hair extension element.

1 . An extension apparatus for an artificial implanted hair element in a patient's epidermis, the artificial implanted hair element projecting beyond the epidermis and having a distal end, said apparatus comprising:
 a cylindrical structure having a first end with a first cavity therein and a second end with a second cavity therein; and   wherein said first cavity is configured to receive the distal end therein and said second cavity is configured to receive at least one hair extension element therein.   
     
     
         2 . The extension apparatus of  claim 1  wherein said at least one hair extension element comprises synthetic polymers. 
     
     
         3 . The extension apparatus of  claim 2  wherein said at least one hair extension element is a solid hair element. 
     
     
         4 .- 23 . (canceled) 
     
     
         24 . A method for forming a hair extension on an artificial implanted hair element in a patient's epidermis, the artificial implanted hair element projecting beyond the epidermis and having a distal end, said method comprising:
 forming a cylindrical structure having a first end with a first cavity therein and a second end with a second cavity therein;   positioning a portion of at least one hair extension element into said first cavity therein and securing said portion therein; and   positioning the distal end of the artificial implanted hair into said second cavity and securing the distal end therein.   
     
     
         25 . The method of  claim 24  wherein said step of securing comprises using friction, heat, adhesive or other chemical means for securing said at least one hair extension element or said distal end of the artificial implanted hair 
     
     
         26 .- 36 . (canceled)