DHI (Direct Hair Implantation) is a hair transplant technique that is similar to FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) hair transplant. However, there are a few key differences between the two methods.
In DHI hair transplant, the hair follicles are extracted one by one from the donor area using a specialized tool called a Choi Implanter Pen. This pen has a hollow needle at the end which is used to create a tiny incision in the recipient area of the scalp and implant the hair follicle directly into the scalp, without the need for creating incisions or channels.
The Choi Implanter Pen allows for more precise control over the angle, depth, and direction of the implanted hair follicles. This can result in a more natural-looking hairline and greater density in the transplanted area.
DHI hair transplant has several advantages over other hair transplant methods, including:
- Minimal scarring: The small size of the incisions made during the procedure means that scarring is minimal and virtually undetectable.
- No need for incisions or channels: The Choi Implanter Pen allows for the implantation of hair follicles without the need for creating incisions or channels, which reduces trauma to the scalp and speeds up the healing process.
- Greater density: The precise control over the implantation process allows for greater density in the transplanted area, resulting in a more natural-looking result.
- Reduced recovery time: Because DHI hair transplant is minimally invasive, patients typically experience a faster recovery time and can resume normal activities within a few days.
- Reduced risk of complications: DHI hair transplant has a lower risk of complications, such as bleeding or infection, compared to other hair transplant methods.
However, it is important to note that DHI hair transplant may not be suitable for all individuals and is dependent on various factors such as the degree of hair loss, quality and quantity of donor hair, and the overall health of the patient. Therefore, it is important to consult with a qualified and experienced hair restoration surgeon to determine the most appropriate hair transplant method for your specific needs.
How is direct hair transplantation applied?
Direct hair transplantation (DHI) is a hair restoration procedure that involves the extraction of individual hair follicles from the donor area of the scalp and their implantation directly into the recipient area without the need for creating incisions or channels. The procedure is performed using a specialized tool called a Choi Implanter Pen.
Here are the general steps involved in a DHI hair transplantation:
- Consultation: The first step is to schedule a consultation with a qualified and experienced hair restoration surgeon who will evaluate your hair loss and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for you.
- Preparation: Before the procedure, the surgeon will shave the donor and recipient areas of your scalp and administer a local anesthetic to numb the area.
- Extraction of hair follicles: Using a specialized micro punch tool, the surgeon will extract individual hair follicles from the donor area of the scalp.
- Implantation of hair follicles: The extracted hair follicles are then placed into the Choi Implanter Pen, which is used to create a tiny incision in the recipient area of the scalp and implant the hair follicle directly into the scalp.
- Post-operative care: After the procedure, the surgeon will provide instructions on how to care for your scalp, including washing and caring for the implanted hair follicles.
- Follow-up: You will have several follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor your progress and ensure that the implanted hair follicles are growing as expected.
The procedure can take several hours, depending on the number of hair follicles to be implanted. However, it is generally considered to be a minimally invasive procedure, and patients can typically return to their normal activities within a few days.
Here’s what you can generally expect during the process:
- Initial Consultation: During the initial consultation, the surgeon will evaluate your hair loss, examine your scalp, and discuss your goals and expectations for the procedure. They may also take photographs of your scalp for reference.
- Preparation: On the day of the procedure, the surgeon will shave the donor and recipient areas of your scalp and administer a local anesthetic to numb the area.
- Extraction of Hair Follicles: The surgeon will use a specialized micro punch tool to extract individual hair follicles from the donor area of your scalp. The hair follicles are then placed in a special solution to keep them hydrated and healthy.
- Implantation of Hair Follicles: Using the Choi Implanter Pen, the surgeon will make tiny incisions in the recipient area of your scalp and implant the hair follicles directly into the scalp. The Choi Implanter Pen allows for precise control over the depth, angle, and direction of the implanted hair follicles.
- Post-operative Care: After the procedure, the surgeon will provide instructions on how to care for your scalp and implanted hair follicles. This may include taking medication, washing your scalp gently, and avoiding certain activities for a certain period of time.
- Follow-up Appointments: You will have several follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor your progress and ensure that the implanted hair follicles are growing as expected.
It is important to note that the exact process may vary depending on the individual’s specific needs and the surgeon’s techniques. It is important to choose a qualified and experienced hair restoration surgeon who can customize the procedure to your specific needs and achieve the best possible results.
Who needs the DHI process?
The direct hair transplantation (DHI) process can be suitable for individuals who have experienced hair loss or hair thinning and wish to restore their hairline or improve the density of their hair. It is a popular hair restoration option for both men and women, and can be used to treat a variety of hair loss conditions, including:
- Androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern baldness)
- Alopecia areata
- Traction alopecia
- Scarring alopecia
- Hair loss due to trauma or injury
- Hair loss due to previous hair transplant procedures.
DHI may not be suitable for individuals with extensive hair loss, as the procedure involves transplanting individual hair follicles and may not be able to provide full coverage for large areas of baldness. In such cases, other hair restoration procedures, such as follicular unit transplantation (FUT) or follicular unit extraction (FUE), may be more appropriate.
It is important to consult with a qualified and experienced hair restoration surgeon to determine if the DHI process is suitable for your specific hair loss condition and goals. The surgeon can evaluate your hair loss, discuss your options, and recommend the most appropriate hair restoration procedure for you.
