DHI hair transplant
In DHI (Direct Hair Implantation), follicles are implanted with a fine-tipped tool called a Choi pen, which opens the channel and places the follicle in the same move.
Written by: Royce Hair Lab editorial teamLast updated:
With any surgical or interventional procedure, results vary from person to person. You are advised to get a detailed opinion from your doctor before the procedure. Images are representative; they do not show our clinic or real patients.
How is DHI done?
As in FUE, follicles are first taken one by one from the donor area. The difference is the placement: each follicle is loaded into a Choi pen, and the pen opens the channel and leaves the follicle in it the moment it enters the skin. There is no separate channel-opening stage.
Because the angle and depth can be set for every follicle, the natural direction and density of hair can be followed closely.
Who is DHI for?
- People who want a designed hairline and density at the front,
- Thinning areas where follicles are placed between existing hairs,
- Plans with partial shaving (decided at the consultation),
- Beard and eyebrows, where direction and angle decide the result.
For large bald areas, DHI is often combined with FUE to cover enough area in one session.
DHI vs FUE
| DHI | FUE | |
|---|---|---|
| Extraction | One by one, micro punch | One by one, micro punch |
| Channel opening | The pen opens it while placing | A separate stage |
| Placement | Choi pen | Fine forceps |
| Best suited to | Hairline, dense work, thinning areas | Large areas |
With both techniques, the result depends mostly on planning, donor quality and the team's experience. The technique alone does not decide the result.
Recovery after DHI
Sleep with your head slightly raised for the first nights. The first wash is done at the clinic, then you wash daily at home. Scabs fall within 10–14 days. Shock loss may appear between months 1 and 3; new hairs grow from month 3 and the result is assessed at month 12.
Online pre-assessment
To see whether DHI suits you, fill in the online hair analysis or send photos on WhatsApp. The final plan is made at the consultation.
Common questions
- 01
If the area and donor density allow, a plan with partial shaving or unshaven work in limited areas is possible. This is decided at the consultation.
- 02
With both techniques, most of the discomfort is felt while the local anaesthetic is given. Once it works, pain is not expected in the treated area.
- 03
It depends on the donor area and time. For large areas DHI and FUE can be combined.