For the last few months, many of my foreign patients have asked me about how the DHI technique is better than the FUE technique? This question surprises me because the advertising strategy these days often confuses people and makes them misunderstand so I’d like to take this opportunity to clarify DHI and FUE.
Types of Hair Transplant Techniques
When discussing hair transplant techniques, it refers specifically to the method of extracting hair from the back of the head, or the “Donor Area.” It doesn’t involve the tools used in the implantation process. According to the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS), there are only two main techniques: FUE and FUT.
Learn more: Types of Hair Transplantation
What is the DHI Hair Transplant Technique?
The term “DHI” or “Direct Hair Implantation” is not defined by the ISHRS. This technique involves extracting hair follicles individually, as with FUE, but uses a tool called an Implanter Pen instead of forceps, the more common tool for implantation.
How Do DHI and FUE Differ? Which is Better?
In truth, DHI is essentially FUE; there is no difference in how hair is extracted from the Donor Site. Claims that DHI is superior due to the use of an Implanter are inaccurate, as both FUE and FUT can utilize this tool—forceps are not a requirement. For example, if an Implanter is used in FUT, it remains an FUT procedure. Therefore, DHI is simply a marketing term used to describe FUE with an emphasis on using the Implanter Pen for implantation.
Hairsmith Clinic’s Use of the Implanter Pen
At Hairsmith Clinic, we were among the first clinics in Thailand to adopt the “full use” of the Implanter Pen, though we do not refer to it as DHI. We adhere strictly to ISHRS and ABHRS standards, prioritizing transparency and providing patients with accurate information that reflects reality.
Summary
The DHI method is essentially the FUE technique, utilizing the Implanter Pen instead of forceps. The International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery recognizes a variety of implantation tools, and at Hairsmith Clinic, we use the Implanter Pen in all cases at no additional cost.
