Quick Facts
- • Variant of FUE technique
- • Uses specialized Choi Implanter Pen
- • No need to create separate recipient sites
- • Higher density in smaller areas
- • $8-15 per graft (US average)
What is DHI?
DHI (Direct Hair Implantation) is an advanced hair transplant technique that uses a specialized tool called the Choi Implanter Pen. Unlike traditional FUE, where grafts are extracted, sites are created, and then grafts are implanted in separate steps, DHI combines site creation and implantation into a single motion.
The technique was developed to provide more control over depth, direction, and angle of each implanted hair follicle, resulting in potentially higher density and more natural-looking results in specific areas like the hairline.
How DHI Works
Step-by-step procedure
Extraction (Same as FUE)
- • Donor area prepared and anesthetized
- • Individual follicular units extracted using micro-punches
- • Grafts carefully preserved in special solution
Loading the Choi Pen
- • Each graft is loaded into a Choi Implanter Pen
- • Multiple pens are used simultaneously by the team
- • Grafts spend minimal time outside the body
Direct Implantation
- • Surgeon directly implants grafts without pre-made incisions
- • Choi Pen creates site and places graft in one motion
- • Precise control over angle, depth, and direction
DHI vs FUE: Key Differences
Side-by-side comparison
| Factor | DHI | FUE |
|---|---|---|
| Implantation Method | Choi Pen (one-step) | Forceps (two-step) |
| Recipient Site Creation | Not needed separately | Created before implantation |
| Shaving Required | Partial or no shaving | Usually full donor shave |
| Maximum Grafts/Session | 2,000-3,000 | 3,000-5,000+ |
| Best For | Hairline, density work | Large areas, crown |
| Cost | Higher ($8-15/graft US) | Lower ($6-10/graft US) |
DHI Pros and Cons
What to consider
Advantages
- No pre-made incisions: Reduces trauma to the scalp
- Shorter graft time outside body: Better graft survival rates
- Precise angle control: More natural-looking results
- No or minimal shaving: Can keep existing hair
- Less bleeding: Smaller incisions heal faster
- Higher density possible: Great for hairline refinement
Disadvantages
- Higher cost: More specialized equipment and training
- Longer procedure time: Each graft loaded individually
- Lower graft limits: Less suitable for very large sessions
- Surgeon skill-dependent: Requires extensive training
- Not ideal for large bald areas: Better for targeted work
DHI Recovery Timeline
Similar to FUE, often slightly faster healing
Mild swelling, small scabs form. Can wash hair gently after 48 hours.
Swelling subsides. Scabs begin falling off naturally. Most return to work.
Transplanted hairs may shed (shock loss). This is normal and temporary.
New hair growth begins. Results start becoming visible.
Full results visible. Maximum density achieved.
Is DHI Right for You?
Guidelines to help you decide
DHI is particularly well-suited for:
- • Patients wanting hairline restoration or refinement
- • Those who cannot shave their head (due to work or preference)
- • Patients seeking higher density in specific areas
- • Women with hair loss who want to keep long hair
- • Patients needing small to medium sessions (under 3,000 grafts)
Important Considerations for DHI Abroad
Turkey, particularly Istanbul, has become a major destination for DHI procedures. Many clinics offer DHI at significantly lower prices while maintaining high standards. However, quality varies widely between clinics.
- • Verify the surgeon performs the procedure personally
- • Ask about technician-to-surgeon ratios
- • Request before/after photos of similar cases
- • Understand what's included in package pricing
Related Resources
Learn more about hair transplants
Find a DHI Specialist
DHI requires specialized training. Consult with verified surgeons experienced in this technique.