Hair Transplantation – DHI

What does DHI mean?

DHI stands for in English Direct Hair Implantation. Direct hair implantation is the latest hair transplant technique in which it is no longer necessary to make channels or incisions in the recipient area (= recipient area). Using a special implantation device, the DHI Implanter, the hair follicles are implanted directly.

Usually this method is used in the following cases:

• If you don't mind having areas shaved. The technique of keeping the hair long in the donor area is also possible, but it works less smoothly and efficiently. 
• When you want a dense head of hair.
• If you want minimal bleeding during the implantation process.

How does a hair transplant according to the DHI method proceed?

Before your treatment begins, your head will be prepared and anesthetized. 

Step 1: Removal of the grafts

• After anesthesia, the 'harvesting' can begin. Using a DHI Implanter or Choi-pen, the hair follicles or grafts are removed from the donor area.

A choi pen or DHI Implanter is used to harvest and implant grafts.

Step 2: Implanting the grafts

• With the DHI Implanter or Choi-pen the graft is immediately 'pricked' into the skin without first opening the channels in the recipient area.
• Thanks to this method, there is almost no bleeding during the implantation process.

A close-up of a choi pen or DHI Implanter.

Benefits of a DHI hair transplant

• The quality of the hair follicles remains optimal during the process
• Permanent result
• No scars visible
• The donor area remains unchanged
• Very natural result
• A minimum of sensitivity during and after the procedure
• Maximum grafts can be removed
• Less visible wounds
• Better healing process
• Create more density with the DHI Implanter or Choi-pen
• It is not necessary to shave the hair completely, only the donor area

Possible side effects and disadvantages

• Your head may feel tender and slightly swollen after the treatment.
• In very rare cases infection can occur. Therefore, as a precaution we give antibiotics both before and after treatment.
• In rare cases, shock loss can occur, causing the hair to fall out temporarily. This is because the scalp has been under stress during the treatment.
• Since the DHI Implanter can only be used once, the material costs for this procedure are more expensive.
• This method is a bit more time consuming.

Who is not a suitable candidate for a hair transplant using the DHI method?

The DHI method is less suitable for people with very curly hair, thin hair or frizzy hair. These brittle hairs are easily damaged in the process and fit more difficultly in the DHI Implanter.

Anyone who has the following issues is not a suitable candidate for a hair transplant using the DHI method:

• Low blood pressure
• Cardiac arrhythmias
• Blood thinners
• Diabetes