Hair transplantation has emerged as a popular solution for hair loss and restoring hairline. DHI (Direct Hair Implantation) and Sapphire FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) are the most utilized hair transplantation techniques. Though both methods offer alternative solutions for hair loss, understanding their differences is essential for selecting the proper treatment based on your personal preferences and needs. Essentially, DHI involves inserting the graft directly into the scalp. Whereas in Sapphire FUE, an incision has to be made first, and then the graft should be implanted.
This guide compares DHI and Sapphire FUE and examines the differences between the two techniques, including each method’s benefits, drawbacks, costs, and recovery times. It will allow you to make an informed decision and achieve better results.
The Differences at a Glance
Both methods are very similar in harvesting individual hair follicles from the back of the head and transplanting them into a balding area. However, the two methods differ in some key features; key features of each method are summarized in the following table:
| Feature | DHI (Direct Hair Implantation) | Sapphire FUE |
| Extraction Method | A motorized pen to extract hair follicles | A micro-punch tool to extract follicles |
| Implantation Method | Each follicle is directly implanted into the recipient area using a pen | Incisions are made with a sapphire blade, and follicles are implanted |
| Blade Type | There is no blade; instead, a motorized pen is used for implantation | A sapphire blade is used for making precise incisions |
| Recovery Time | Quicker recovery due to minimal tissue damage | A little longer recovery time compared to DHI due to the incision-making process |
| Pain Level | Relatively lower pain; no cuts or incisions are made | Moderate pain; the blade creates small incisions in the scalp |
| Healing Process | Faster healing; Minimal scarring | Relatively quick recovery; Slight scarring at the incision points |
| Duration of Procedure | Slightly long; it involves the implantation of each follicle directly | Faster; follicles are placed after incisions are made |
| Cost | Generally more expensive; the advanced technology is involved | less expensive, depending on the clinic |
What is DHI?
DHI Hair Transplant, or Direct Hair Implantation, is an advanced hair restoration technique that involves extracting hair follicles individually using a specialized tool, Choi Implant Pen, and implanting them directly into the scalp.
During the DHI:
- Your hair will be shaved, and local anesthetic will be administered.
- Your hair follicles from the donor area will then be extracted.
- Extracted grafts will be implanted into the recipient site using a unique tool called the Choi implanter pen. A surgeon will insert the graft into the implanter pen, directly injecting it into the designated spot. Hence the name Direct Hair Implantation.
- After the procedure, an antibiotic cream and bandage will be applied.
DHI: Pros and Cons
Now that you understand each technique’s key features let’s look at each technique’s ups and downs to make a more informed decisions.
Pros | Cons |
Direct follicle placement using the Choi pen for greater control over follicle placement. | Expensive process due to the use of specialized equipment and the time involved. |
| Minimal swelling is caused by reduced tissue trauma and less swelling and discomfort during recovery. | Time-consuming; require more prolonged treatment sessions. |
What is Sapphire FUE?
Sapphire FUE hair transplant is an innovative technique that combines the industry-standard FUE technique with a new medical device: a Sapphire blade.
The FUE Saphir hair transplant takes place in several steps:
- The head is shaved, and local anesthesia is applied to extract and select the grafts from the donor area.
- The follicular unit, a hair follicle grouping of 1 to 4 hairs, is extracted from hollow needles.
- They are placed in a liquid solution to maintain vitality. Then, they are checked and sorted before proceeding to implantation.
- Individual incisions are made before implanting the grafts using the Sapphire blade. this device is a very sharp and precise blade which can make the incision necessary for
- Hair follicles are carefully transplanted in each incision using a sapphire blade.
Sapphire FUE: Pros and Cons
Like DHI, Sapphire FUE has its advantages and disadvantages.
| Pros | Cons |
Advanced blade, ensuring cleaner incisions and reducing tissue damage, bleeding, and scarring. | Durable tissue trauma due to the sharpness of the blade |
| Better for larger transplants; handling more grafts in one session. | The swelling effect made by the blade in the Sapphire blade |
Which One Is Best?
Several factors play a role in defining which hair transplant technique fits you more. You should consult an expert in this field along with doing your research. Let’s look at what experts offer as the best technique for your hair restoration depending on the following aspects:
- Hair type: DHI is ideal for finer hair. Sapphire FUE may be better suited for you if you need larger restoration areas or have thicker hair.
- Scalp condition: If you have a sensitive scalp or scarring history, DHI may be the better choice for you as the technique is known for being less invasive
- Recovery speed: DHI offers a faster recovery than Sapphire due to fewer incisions. Sapphire FUE, on the other hand, will take longer to heal due to its incision process.
- Scarring: Both DHI and Sapphire FUE may leave minimal scarring. However, Sapphire FUE can leave finer scars due to the sharpness of the sapphire blade. On the other hand, the DHI process involves no incisions, reducing the risk of scarring and leaving fewer visible scars. However, with proper aftercare, the scarring is typically not noticeable for both techniques.
- Discomfort levels: During both procedures, under local anesthesia, you may typically experience little or no pain. DHI may result in less discomfort during the recovery phase as it causes minimal tissue trauma. You can manage pain after both procedures with prescribed medications. However, since DHI involves fewer incisions, it generally results in less post-procedure pain.
Which One Will Cost More?
DHI tends to be more expensive than Sapphire FUE. Though, the cost of both DHI and Sapphire FUE varies depending on factors such as the surgeon’s skill and the number of grafts required. However, due to the specialized equipment and lengthier procedure times:
- DHI hair transplant is more costly than Sapphire FUE, as it requires a more meticulous and time-consuming procedure, as well as the use of the Choi pen.
- Though Sapphire FUE costs less than DHI, its cost varies, depending on the number of grafts required and the clinic’s advanced technology.
Final Words
DHI stands out for its precision and minimally invasive nature, making it ideal for you seeking faster recovery and minimal scarring. On the other hand, Sapphire FUE excels in precision due to the advanced sapphire blade, ensuring clean incisions and excellent results. Though both techniques provide long-lasting and natural-looking results, choosing these methods depends on factors such as your hair type and desired recovery time. That is why, before jumping to a conclusion, it’s crucial to consult with a professional to determine which method suits you best.
