DHI Hair Transplant: Method, Process and Considerations

What Is a DHI Hair Transplant?

DHI (Direct Hair Implantation) is a hair transplant approach in which follicles are taken from the donor area and placed in the recipient area with a special implanter pen. As with FUE, follicles are removed from the donor area one by one. The difference between DHI and FUE lies in how the follicles are placed. DHI is also a medical procedure and should take place at an authorised health facility, under the responsibility of authorised health professionals.

This page gives a general overview of how a DHI hair transplant is carried out, the steps of the process, aftercare and possible risks. The information is general and does not replace a personal assessment.

How Is a DHI Hair Transplant Done?

1. Assessment and planning: Hair structure, hair loss, donor area and the area to be transplanted are assessed. The hairline and density are planned for you personally.
2. Removing the follicles: Follicles are removed from the donor area one by one.
3. Loading the implanter pen: The follicles are loaded into the special tool called an implanter pen.
4. Placing the follicles: The follicles are placed in the recipient area with the pen. Direction and angle follow the plan.
5. First wash and aftercare: After the procedure you receive guidance on the first wash and daily care.

When Can DHI Be Considered?

Whether DHI is suitable differs from person to person. An assessment looks at these together:

• The type of hair loss and the size of the area to be transplanted
• Donor area capacity and hair structure
• The planned hairline and density
• General health and any medication
• Your expectations

Neither method is better for everyone. For a comparison, see differences between FUE and DHI.

Local Anaesthetic and Procedure Time

Local anaesthetic can be used. What you feel varies from person to person. The length of the procedure depends on the number of grafts and your personal plan.

DHI Hair Transplant Aftercare

After the procedure you receive guidance on the first wash, daily care and what to look out for. You should expect these instructions to be shared in writing by the facility that carried out the procedure. Some transplanted hair may shed in the first weeks. New growth usually starts within months, and the process can take around a year. Speed and density differ from person to person.

Risks of a DHI Hair Transplant

As with any medical procedure, risks and temporary effects can occur. Redness, swelling, scabbing and infection are among them. Discuss possible risks with a health professional before you decide. Results cannot be guaranteed.

DHI Hair Transplant FAQ

Is DHI the same as FUE?

No. In both, follicles are removed from the donor area one by one. The difference is in how they are placed. DHI can use an implanter pen.

Is DHI suitable for everyone?

No. Suitability depends on the type of hair loss, donor area, general health and expectations.

Is a DHI hair transplant painful?

Local anaesthetic can be used. What you feel varies from person to person.

When does new hair appear after DHI?

Growth is gradual. New hair usually starts to appear within months and the process can take around a year.

Where should a DHI hair transplant be done?

At an authorised health facility, under the responsibility of authorised health professionals.

For general information see the hair transplant page, and for questions use the contact page.