DHI (Direct Hair Implant)

Direct Hair Implantation using a Choi pen to implant grafts without pre-made channels for maximum density and control.

Direct Hair Implantation using a Choi pen to implant grafts without pre-made channels for maximum density and control.

What Is DHI (Direct Hair Implant)?

DHI (Direct Hair Implantation) uses a specialised Choi implanter pen to place each follicle directly into the scalp in a single step — without first creating recipient channels. This gives the surgeon precise control over the depth, angle, and direction of every graft, enables very high density, and shortens the time follicles spend outside the body, improving survival. DHI is ideal for hairline refinement and dense packing in targeted areas.

Choi Pen Control

Direct implantation controls angle, depth, and direction with millimetre precision.

No Channels Needed

Channel creation and implantation happen in one step, reducing scalp trauma.

Higher Survival

Grafts spend less time outside the body, improving survival rates.

Minimal Shaving

DHI can often be performed with little or no shaving of the recipient area.

The DHI (Direct Hair Implant) Procedure

01

Consultation & Design

Hairline and density planning tailored to your face and goals.

02

Donor Preparation

Donor area prepared and anaesthetised for comfort.

03

Follicle Extraction

Individual grafts harvested with a micro-punch.

04

Loading the Choi Pen

Each follicle is loaded into the implanter pen ready for direct placement.

05

Direct Implantation

Grafts implanted directly at the precise angle and depth in a single motion.

06

Aftercare

Detailed recovery protocol and follow-up schedule provided.

Key Advantages

  • Exceptional control over direction and density
  • Ideal for hairline and crown refinement
  • Often little to no shaving required
  • Reduced bleeding and trauma
  • High graft survival rate
  • Natural, seamless results

Ideal Candidates

  • Patients prioritising a very natural, dense hairline
  • Those who prefer minimal or no shaving
  • Smaller, targeted areas requiring precision
  • Crown and frontal density restoration
  • Patients wanting maximum graft survival

DHI vs Classic FUE

Feature DHI Classic FUE
Implantation Direct with Choi pen Pre-made channels
Shaving Often minimal Usually required
Density control Very high High
Best for Hairline / targeted areas Large areas
Graft handling Minimal exposure time Standard

What to Expect After Treatment

Day 1–3

Rest. Avoid touching grafts. Sleep elevated to reduce swelling.

Week 1

First gentle wash. Small scabs form around grafts.

Week 2–4

Scabs clear and transplanted hair sheds (normal shock loss).

Month 3–6

New hair emerges and density gradually builds.

Month 12–18

Full, natural results achieved.

Frequently Asked Questions

In FUE, channels are created first and grafts implanted afterward. In DHI, the Choi pen creates the channel and implants the graft in one step, giving more control and reducing the time grafts are outside the body.
Often DHI can be performed with little or no shaving of the recipient area, though the donor area usually needs trimming.
DHI is typically more time-intensive and precise, so it can cost more. We discuss the best value option for your case during consultation.
Initial growth at 3–4 months, with full results between 12 and 18 months.

Ready to Get Started with DHI (Direct Hair Implant)?

Book your free, no-obligation consultation and discover if this technique is right for you.