Direct Hair Implantation — Choi Implanter Pen Technique
DHI (Direct Hair Implantation) is an advanced FUE technique where hair follicles are extracted and immediately implanted using a specialized tool called a Choi implanter pen. This method allows for precise placement and angle control, resulting in highly natural-looking results.
The Choi pen simultaneously creates the recipient channel and places the graft in one motion, reducing the time grafts spend outside the body and potentially improving survival rates. DHI is considered the gold standard for hairline design and adding density to existing hair without shaving the recipient area.
Individual follicles are extracted from the donor area using micro-punch tools, similar to standard FUE.
Each follicle is carefully loaded into a Choi implanter pen by a trained technician. Multiple pens are used simultaneously to speed the process.
The surgeon uses the Choi pen to simultaneously create a recipient channel and implant the graft, controlling exact angle, depth, and direction.
Unlike FUE/FUT, there's no separate step to create recipient channels. This reduces trauma to the scalp and can improve healing.
Recovery is similar to FUE (7-10 days). The precise placement typically results in very natural-looking growth patterns at 12-18 months.
DHI is an advanced form of FUE. In standard FUE, follicles are extracted first, then recipient sites are created, then grafts are placed. In DHI, the Choi implanter pen combines site creation and placement into one step, potentially improving graft survival and allowing more precise angle control. DHI typically costs 10-20% more than standard FUE.
DHI costs $5-$18 per graft in the US ($10,000-$18,000+ for 2,000 grafts). In Turkey, DHI costs $2,000-$5,000 total. DHI is typically the most expensive hair transplant method due to the specialized equipment and training required.
DHI offers some advantages: more precise angle/direction control, potentially higher graft survival, and no need for pre-made recipient sites. However, it takes longer to perform, costs more, and the maximum number of grafts per session may be lower (2,000-3,000 vs 4,000+ for FUE). DHI is particularly good for hairline work and adding density to existing hair.
The Choi implanter pen is a specialized tool used in DHI that resembles a mechanical pencil. It has a hollow needle that simultaneously creates the recipient site and implants the graft. This allows the surgeon to control the exact depth, angle, and direction of each implanted hair, creating highly natural results.
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