DHI (Direct Hair Implantation) technology, which closes the era of “channel opening” in hair transplantation and involves the direct transfer of hair follicles to the skin, represents the pinnacle of aesthetic surgery. Especially for those who do not want to cut their existing hair and aim for the “peak” of a natural look, Antalya DHI hair transplantation is transformed into an art form in the expert hands of Haarex Clinic.
What is DHI (Direct Hair Implantation)?
Commonly known as the “Pen Technique” or “Choi Method,” DHI is the process of placing hair follicles (grafts) collected from the donor area directly into the implantation area using special medical pens called Choi Implanter Pens, without opening channels.
While the classic FUE method involves a three-step process of “Root Extraction -> Channel Creation -> Implantation,” the DHI method combines the “Channel Creation” and “Implantation” steps. This ensures that the roots spend less time outside the body, maximizing their viability.
Choi Implanter Pen: The Heart of Technology
This pen features an extremely fine, cylindrical, and sharp needle ranging from 0.6mm to 1.0mm in diameter. The graft is gently placed inside this needle. When the surgeon presses the button, the needle penetrates the skin and deposits the root beneath the skin. This mechanism ensures the hair's exit angle and direction are determined with flawless precision
Why Choose Antalya DHI Hair Transplantation?
Antalya is where the best specialists in DHI technology come together. At Haarex Clinic, we consider the DHI method to be more than just a standard procedure; we classify it as “VIP Hair Transplantation.” So why should you choose DHI?
1. The Comfort of Hair Transplantation Without Shaving
The biggest advantage of DHI is that there is no need to shave the area where the transplant will be performed. Especially for our female patients and male patients who want to return to work immediately and do not want their hair cut, Antalya DHI hair transplant is the only and best alternative. It is possible to “thicken” your existing hair by inserting new hair into it.
2. Maximum Density
While the classic FUE method allows for an average of 40-50 grafts per cm², the fine tips of DHI pens allow for up to 80-100 grafts per cm². This means much fuller and denser-looking hair.
3. Fast Recovery and Minimal Bleeding
DHI pens do not make an “incision” in the skin, they only create an entry point the size of a needle hole. Therefore, there is almost no bleeding. The scabbing process is much milder and the recovery time is reduced to 3-4 days.
Detailed Comparison: DHI vs. Sapphire FUE
The question our patients ask most often is: “Which one is better?” In fact, both methods are successful, but they address different needs. Here are the scientific differences:
| Criterion | DHI (Choi Pen) | Sapphire FUE |
|---|---|---|
| Application Area | Ideal for tightening, front hairline, temples, and shave-free transplants. | Ideal for wide gaps (complete baldness) and high graft counts. |
| Maximum Grafts (Single Session) | 3000 - 3500 Grafts (Labor-intensive, longer duration). | 5000 - 6000 Grafts (Progresses faster). |
| Channel Opening | None (Direct seeding with a pen). | Yes (Channel is opened first with sapphire tips). |
| Duration | 8-10 Hours (Takes longer). | 6-8 Hours. |
| Cost | Higher (Equipment and expertise costs). | More economical. |
Who is DHI Hair Transplantation Suitable For?
Can the DHI method be applied to everyone? Theoretically, yes, but in terms of practical benefit, it is essential for the following patient profiles:
- Female Patients: It is the only option for women who do not want to shave their heads completely.
- Those with thinning hair: Those who are not completely bald, but whose hair has thinned and who want to fill in the gaps.
- Front hairline aesthetics: Those whose hairline has receded and who only want front hairline design and temple filling.
- Those with tissue sensitivity: Diabetic patients who are at risk of bleeding disorders or who want to heal quickly.
Note: The DHI procedure may be technically challenging for individuals with curly and very fine hair (e.g., Afro-type hair). It may be difficult to place the graft into the Choi pen. In such cases, our specialist doctor may suggest an alternative method during the preliminary examination.
How the DHI Procedure Works: “Loader” and Surgeon Coordination
The DHI procedure requires a much larger and more synchronized team than FUE. In Antalya DHI hair transplant procedures, the following system is used in the Haarex Clinic operating room:
1. Preparation of Grafts
Hair follicles taken from the donor area are cleaned of tissue fragments and separated according to their thickness (single, double, triple).
2. Loading the Pens
This stage is the most critical point of DHI. One or two assistants are present alongside the surgeon. The assistants place the grafts into the Choi pens with microscopic precision without damaging them. This is called “loading.”
3. Transfer and Implantation
The surgeon takes the pen loaded by the assistant and injects it into the skin at the correct angle (40-45 degrees) and in the correct direction (the direction of hair growth). The surgeon gives the empty pen to the assistant, and the assistant gives the loaded pen to the surgeon. This cycle is repeated thousands of times in a clockwork rhythm.
During this process, the roots do not remain in the external environment (petri dish) for long, so the periods of oxygen deprivation are minimal. This increases the survival rate to 99%.
Hair Transplantation for Women: A Discreet and Aesthetic Solution with DHI
Hair loss is a common condition in women and can lead to a serious loss of self-confidence. However, the biggest barrier for women is the requirement to “shave their heads.” This is where Antalya DHI hair transplantation comes into play.
The protocol we apply to our female patients at Haarex Clinic is as follows:
- No Shave Transplantation: The hair in the area to be transplanted (front hairline or crown) is left untouched. The Choi pen inserts hair follicles into the gaps between the existing long hair.
- Hidden Donor Area: A small window is opened in the nape area (donor area) between the two ears, and the roots are taken from there. Once the procedure is complete, the long hair on top covers this area. This way, it is not apparent from the outside that you have undergone surgery.
DHI is the gold standard for women, especially for lowering the “front hairline” or covering bald spots in the temple areas.
What is Shave-Free Hair Transplantation? What are your options?
The concept of “shave-free” can sometimes be misunderstood. At Haarex Clinic, we offer our patients transparent options in this regard:
1. Completely Unshaven Transplantation
Neither the donor area nor the transplantation area is shaved. This is only possible with DHI. However, this method is very time-consuming and difficult in terms of hygiene. It is generally suitable for small touch-ups of 1000-1500 grafts.
2. Regional No-Shave Transplantation (Most Preferred)
Only a small area at the back of the head (for harvesting) is shaved. The front or crown area where transplantation will be performed is not shaved. The grafts are implanted among the long hair. It allows for recovery without disrupting social life.
DHI Hair Transplant Recovery Process: Why is it Faster?
In classic methods, channels are opened, causing micro-cuts on the skin and scabbing that lasts 10-12 days. In the Antalya DHI hair transplant method, there are no cuts, only needle entries.
| Day | DHI Recovery Status |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | The bandage is removed. Only red dots are visible in the transplant area. Bleeding and oozing are minimal. |
| Days 3–4 | The risk of swelling is very low. The dots begin to heal without forming scabs. |
| Days 7–8 | Recovery is almost complete. Recovery is 40% faster than with the traditional method. |
| 1st Month | Shock loss begins (normal process). |
Why Are Antalya DHI Hair Transplant Prices Different?
DHI procedures are generally 30-50% more expensive than FUE procedures. The reasons for this are operational, not commercial:
- Medical Equipment Cost: Choi Implanter pens are single-use and are expensive imported medical consumables. An average of 4-6 different tips are used for each patient.
- Large Team: While an FUE procedure can be performed by 2-3 specialists, a DHI procedure requires a larger team, including at least 2 “loaders” (pen fillers) and 1 transplant specialist.
- Time and Labor: DHI is a procedure that requires a high level of attention and patience. While a 3000 graft FUE can be completed in 6 hours, DHI can take 8-9 hours. Only 1 patient can be treated per day.
Haarex Clinic offers this premium service at affordable prices with its “all-inclusive” packages.
Frequently Asked Questions About DHI Hair Transplantation
Is DHI hair transplantation more painful?
No, quite the opposite. DHI pens have very fine tips, so they penetrate the tissue very gently. In addition, there is less trauma because there is no channel opening stage. You will not feel anything during the procedure due to the effect of anesthesia.
Can 5000 grafts be transplanted with DHI?
Transplanting 5000 grafts with DHI in a single session is technically very difficult and can disrupt tissue nourishment (blood flow issues). At Haarex Clinic, for numbers above 3500-4000 grafts, we recommend either 2 consecutive days of surgery (Mega Session) or the Combined Method (Sapphire + DHI).
Does DHI hair transplantation leave scars?
The biggest advantage of the DHI method is that it leaves no scars. Since it works with micro-needles, there are no dents or scars left at the roots once healing is complete. Even if you cut your hair very short (number 3), it will not be noticeable that you had a transplant.
Can DHI be performed on curly hair?
In curly hair, the roots may also be curled (C-shaped) under the skin. This can make it difficult to place the graft into the pen. The decision is made based on an examination of your root structure during the preliminary consultation. While FUE is generally preferred for Afro-type hair, DHI is successfully applied to wavy hair.
Can DHI be used for beard and eyebrow transplantation?
Absolutely. DHI is the best method in the world for beard and eyebrow transplantation. The facial area is very sensitive, and opening channels can leave marks. With the DHI pen, transplantation is performed at the exact desired angle (lying down) without leaving marks, achieving perfect naturalness.
Start Transforming with a Premium Touch
Achieving maximum hair density without cutting your hair, taking time off from work, or taking time off from your social life is no longer a dream. Meet Haarex Clinic, the benchmark for Antalya DHI hair transplants.
Send us your photos and we will immediately evaluate your eligibility for DHI.