DHI – Direct Hair Implantation

How is the DHI Direct Hair Implantation Procedure Performed?

Once it is determined that you are a good candidate for DHI direct hair implantation, the procedure is quite simple. A highly trained physician and hair transplant team collectively work together to perform this surgical procedure.

Hair Follicle Collection

This is the stage where hair follicles are extracted using a DHI tool called a micro motor. It involves collecting individual hairs from the scalp.

Arrangement

Once the hairs are collected, the hairs which contain suitable canals are carefully put in a pen-like device that contains hollow needles for implantation.

Implantation

The hairs that are placed in the pen-like devices are then directly stuck into the balding area of the scalp. This process allows the canals to open and plant the hair at the same time. The hair is implanted to meet the suitability of the angle and depth in the balding area.

Reasons People Seek DHI Direct Hair Implantation?

There are several reasons people choose to have DHI hair transplants. DHI direct hair transplants are suitable for both men and women. HI Hair transplants are cosmetic surgical procedures. Some reasons people choose to have DHI hair transplants are:

• Patients who want to have hair in areas on the scalp that are receding or balding

• Patients who want eye-brow transplantations

• Patients who want beard and mustache transplantation

• Patients who need front line transplantation

DHI Hair Implantation Versus FUE Hair Transplants

Although the outcome of both DHI and FUE transplant techniques are similar, there are some differences in the two procedures. Below are some differences between the two techniques.

Shaving

DHI hair implantations do not require shaving of the scalp. The donor area is trimmed so the surgeon can see suitable hair follicles.

FUE hair transplants require shaving of the scalp.

Time Between Hair Follicle Extraction and Implantation

The FUE hair transplant method requires the extracted hair follicles to be kept in a special solution. The surgeon then makes tiny cuts in the recipient area to open the canals for hair implantations. The DHI hair transplant method involves direct implantation in the recipient site; the extra step of opening canals is alleviated.

Bleeding

FUE hair transplants methods cause some bleeding due to the canal opening process. DHI hair transplants do not require canal opening, which eliminates bleeding.

Crusting, Postulation, and Pitting

FUE hair transplants can cause crusting, postulation, and pitting due to canal opening, whereas DHI hair transplants do not cause any crusting, postulation, or pitting.

Number of Grafts

DHI hair transplants can achieve a higher level of hair density because more grafts can be implanted in a particular area than with the FUE hair transplant method. However, during one session of grafting with FUE, it’s possible to graft up to 5000, whereas with DHI, it’s possible to graft up to 2000. Therefore, to achieve the same outcome, a patient may require more than one session with the DHI technique.

Note: The number of hair grafts may vary.

Compatibility

FUE is only compatible with certain types of hair, whereas DHI is compatible with all hair types.

Recovery

Recovery time following DHI hair transplants is much quicker than with FUE hair transplants. DHI patients can return to their normal routines much faster than FUE patients.

DHI Hair Transplant Cost

Typically DHI direct hair implantation technique can be approximately 20% more expensive than FUE hair transplants. The exact cost of a DHI hair transplant will depend on individual needs and the extent of the surgery. DHI hair implantation provides approximately a 90% hair survival rate.

Advantages of DHI Hair Transplants

There are several advantages to choosing the DHI hair transplant method. Some of these advantages are:

• No scarring – no need to make canals
• No Stitches – no cuts to the scalp
• Consistent Results – DHI implanter controls depth, direction, and angle of implant
• Provides natural-looking hair growth
• Highest graft quality
• 90% hair survival rate

How to Prepare for Direct Hair Implantation

Once you have been cleared by your family physician to proceed with a DHI hair transplant, you will meet with a DHI surgical team for your initial consultation. This consultation will involve hair analysis and hair transplant plans. Before having your DHI hair transplant, you will be required to:

• Provide an up to date list of all medications you are taking
• Provide medical history
• Undergo blood tests
• Avoid foods which may cause gastric issues before surgery
• Avoid smoking at least one day before your procedure and one week following your procedure
• Avoid alcohol before your procedure and for 3-5 days following your procedure
• Arrange for a driver for post-surgery, as you cannot drive for 12 post-surgery

Aftercare for DHI Hair Transplants

It is important to take proper care of your scalp after a DHI hair transplant. Below you will find some recommendations for proper care, which will optimize your results.

Alcohol Use

Avoid drinking alcohol for the first week following your hair transplant procedure. Alcohol can affect the blood supply, which can result in a much longer healing time.

Exercise

Avoid activities that cause excessive sweating for at least one week following a -DHI procedure. Excessive sweating can raise risks of infections.

Hair Washing

It is recommended you wait for 7-10 days before you wash your hair with products your surgeon has recommended. This will allow for your scalp to heal and reduce infection risks.

Avoid Direct Sunlight

To avoid extending your healing process after a DHI hair transplant procedure, do not expose your scalp to direct sunlight.

Hats

Avoid placing pressure on your scalp by wearing loose hats after a DHI procedure.

Hands Off

Avoid touching the area of the DHI hair transplant to minimize the risks of infection.

When to Expect Results

A DHI hair transplant recipient can expect to see results within 3 to 4 months. The end result may take up to one year.