What Is DHI Hair Transplant Turkey?
DHI Hair Transplant Turkey refers to the Direct Hair Implantation technique offered by specialized clinics in Turkey. In a typical session, surgeons extract individual follicular units from a donor area, usually the back of the scalp, then load each graft into a hollow-tip implanter pen. With precise control over angle, depth and direction, the surgeon implants follicles directly into thinning zones. Clinics providing DHI Hair Transplant Turkey adhere to strict international hygiene standards, use microscopic graft preparation and customize hairline designs to each patient’s facial features and growth pattern.
What is the price of DHI hair transplantation?
In Türkiye, the average price of DHI hair transplantation varies between 50,000 and 200,000 TL.
DHI hair transplants are available worldwide at prices ranging from $2,000 to $30,000 depending on the country. In Western countries (such as the US, UK, Germany and France), the average cost is around $10,000 to $15,000.
Why is DHI hair transplantation so expensive?
DHI hair transplantation is more expensive than other techniques because it is the most advanced hair transplantation method available, uses more specialized equipment, and requires more expertise from the surgeon.
What is the success rate of DHI hair transplantation?
According to research conducted by the Department of Immunology at Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, where the DHI technique was developed, the success rate of DHI hair transplantation is 92% in 6 months and 90.4% in 12 months, according to research conducted for single and double follicle grafts.
In a subsequent study conducted by the same research team, the survival rate of 20 single grafts transplanted into a 1 cm² area was found to be 95.06%, and 30 grafts were found to be 90.84%. 30 follicles per 1 cm² provided the best balance of hair density and survival rate. However, when 40 and 50 follicles were transplanted, the success rate dropped significantly to 76.48%.
The success of DHI hair transplantation does not only depend on the density of the transplanted hair. Many factors such as trauma to the follicles, the number of follicles per graft, the time between harvesting and transplanting the grafts, the skill of the surgeon and the quality of the donor hair also affect the success rate.
How does the DHI hair transplantation process work?
DHI hair transplantation is performed by harvesting and directly planting grafts, which is a two-stage process. First, grafts are harvested one by one from the donor area using specially modified micromotor punches. Then, these grafts are placed in the Choi implanter pen and planted directly in the recipient area without opening a channel beforehand.
The Choi implanter works similarly to punch embroidery. It allows the surgeon to open a channel with a needle and simultaneously transplant the hair follicle. Choi pens allow the transplantation of a single hair follicle without damaging it and without causing excessive trauma to the recipient area.
DHI Hair Transplantation Process Stages:
Preoperative tests and scalp analysis
Determining the hairline
Shaving the hair (depending on the patient)
Local anesthesia application
Graft extraction from the donor area (FUE method)
Preparation of grafts
Loading of grafts into Choi pens
Direct hair transplantation (DHI application)
Recovery and post-operative instructions
First wash and healing process
How long does DHI hair transplantation take?
DHI hair transplantation takes an average of 5-7 hours. The duration may vary depending on the number of grafts that need to be taken and prepared and the size of the recipient area.
Can DHI hair transplantation be done with body hair?
Yes, DHI hair transplantation can be applied to the head area and other parts of the body using beard hair and chest hair.
Can beard transplantation be done with DHI?
Yes, DHI hair transplantation can also be used for beard transplantation. The DHI technique is very effective in beard transplantation, especially since it gives the best results with single hair follicles. It also provides a more natural look, as it leaves almost invisible scars in the recipient area.
Is eyebrow transplantation possible with DHI?
Yes, DHI hair transplantation can also be used for eyebrow transplantation. Eyebrow transplantation requires individual hair follicles to be transplanted at very precise angles, and the DHI technique is one of the most suitable methods for this procedure. In addition, the DHI technique was first used in eyebrow reconstructions in the 1960s, which shows that the method has been successfully used in eyebrow transplantation for many years.
What is a Choi pen?
The Choi pen is a special surgical instrument (sharp implanter) used in Direct Hair Transplantation (DHI) procedures and allows the surgeon to make an incision and transplant a single hair follicle at the same time. The Choi pen consists of a loading chamber, a piston mechanism, and a needle tip with a diameter ranging from 0.8-1.0 mm. This special instrument allows surgeons to precisely control the placement depth, angle, and direction of the transplanted grafts.
The Choi pen was developed in Korea by Dr. Yung Chul Choi and Dr. Jung Chul Kim and first produced by Akio Kakinuma in 1992. In their groundbreaking article Single Hair Transplantation Using the Choi Hair Transplanter, they invented the Choi pen and successfully transplanted single hair follicles using the modern DHI hair transplantation technique for the first time. With this method, hairlines, eyebrows, beards, moustaches and burn scars could be reconstructed.
The Choi pen was inspired by the single implanter pen developed by medical assistant Chung Ki Paek for eyebrow reconstruction in the 1960s. Although there are various hair transplantation implanter pens available today, such as the Hwang pen, KNU pen, OKT pen, and Smart Hair pen, the Choi pen is the oldest and most popular.
Which size Choi pen is used in DHI hair transplantation?
The inner diameter of the Choi pen used in DHI hair transplantation varies between 0.6 and 0.8 mm and the outer diameter varies between 0.8 and 1.2 mm. These dimensions may vary depending on the size and brand of the pen used.
How deep does Choi Pen transplant the hair in DHI hair transplantation?
Hair transplanted with the DHI method is placed at an average depth of 5 mm. However, this depth may vary depending on the condition of the patient’s scalp.
How many choi pens are used in DHI hair transplantation?
During DHI hair transplantation, an average of 5 to 6 Choi pens are used.
Can DHI hair transplantation be used together with other hair transplantation methods?
Yes, DHI hair transplantation can be combined with other hair transplantation techniques such as Sapphire FUE. Hybrid hair transplantation (Hybrid Hair Transplant) procedure, where DHI and Sapphire FUE methods are used together, allows surgeons to achieve extremely natural and transformative results.
What makes DHI hair transplantation different from other hair transplantation techniques?
Unlike traditional techniques, DHI eliminates the need to open channels in the recipient area before transplanting the grafts. The special Choi pen simultaneously creates channels and places the graft in place in one fluid motion. This method allows:
Graft placement is more precisely controlled.
Less trauma is applied to surrounding tissues.
Recovery time is faster.
Grafts can be placed more densely.
A shaving-free transplant option is possible.
At this point, we would like to remind our patients that DHI is a hair implantation method and not a hair follicle collection method such as FUE or FUT.
DHI hair transplant vs Sapphire FUE hair transplant
The main differences between DHI and Sapphire FUE are the transplantation techniques and surgical instruments. In DHI hair transplantation, Choi implanter pen is used to create channels and insert grafts at the same time, working like a punch embroidery needle. In contrast, Sapphire FUE method uses sapphire scalpels to create pre-incisions in the recipient area and then the grafts are inserted later with forceps.
Another difference is that the DHI method can be applied without shaving the recipient area, but Sapphire FUE usually requires shaving. In addition, the DHI method can be a bit more costly than Sapphire FUE due to the special equipment used. In addition, the maximum transplant capacity of the DHI technique is lower than Sapphire FUE.
DHI and Sapphire FUE techniques have similar success rates. Both offer precise placement control, minimal scarring in the transplanted area, rapid healing process and natural results. Which method to choose depends on your hair type, hair loss pattern and extent of hair loss.
DHI hair transplant vs FUE hair transplant
The main difference between DHI and FUE is that FUE is a hair follicle collection technique, while DHI is a hair implantation method. With FUE, hair follicles are taken from the donor area with micro punch tools and transplanted to the recipient area using forceps or implanter pens. If implanter pens are used, this method is called “direct hair implantation”. Direct hair transplantation can be performed using grafts taken with the FUE or FUT method.
Traditional FUE cannot offer comparable results to DHI when performed with stainless steel scalpels. In classic FUE hair transplants, the risk of bleeding is higher and the recovery time can be longer. However, the traditional FUE method is less expensive because it does not require special equipment. Today, with the development of Sapphire technology, many clinics now use the Sapphire FUE method instead of steel scalpels, and it has become difficult to find a clinic that performs classic FUE transplants with steel scalpels.
DHI hair transplant vs FUT hair transplant
DHI hair transplantation is a hair implantation method, while FUT is a graft collection technique. DHI hair transplantation can be performed using grafts collected with the FUE or FUT method, but it is more common to use it together with the FUE method.
In the Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) method, hair follicles are extracted one by one using motorized punches, while in the Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) method, a 15-25 cm long scalp strip is removed from the donor area. While the FUT method leaves a long and horizontal scar on the back of the hair, the combination of DHI and FUE causes scattered, small circular scars to form in the donor area.
This fundamental difference significantly affects the recovery period. Patients who have undergone transplantation with the DHI + FUE method recover within 7-10 days, while this period can extend up to 2-3 weeks in patients who have undergone transplantation with the FUT method. In addition, these techniques also show significant differences in terms of cost and graft survival rates.
How many grafts can be transplanted in DHI hair transplantation?
A maximum of 4500 grafts can be transplanted in a single DHI hair transplantation session. Transplanting more than 4500 grafts may lead to undesirable results due to the extension of the time between harvesting and transplanting the grafts and excessive density of the hair follicles.
How are grafts counted in DHI hair transplantation?
In DHI hair transplantation, grafts are counted as single, double and triple hair follicles. Therefore, the total number of hair strands transplanted is higher than the number of grafts. Single grafts are usually used to make the hairline look more natural, while double and triple grafts are transplanted to the back areas to increase hair density.
How is donor area adequacy calculated for DHI hair transplantation?
Before DHI hair transplantation, the capacity of the donor area is calculated by performing a hair and scalp analysis. With microscopic analysis, the condition of the hair follicles in the donor area is evaluated and the exact amount of healthy hair follicles that can be used is determined.
How is the hairline designed in DHI hair transplantation?
In DHI hair transplantation, hairline design is performed in two stages. Before the operation, the hairline is drawn in accordance with the patient’s natural facial features and the desired result. During the operation, single grafts are carefully placed at a certain angle to create the hairline and a natural appearance is achieved.
Who is a suitable candidate for DHI hair transplantation?
To determine whether you are a suitable candidate for DHI hair transplantation, you must meet the following criteria:
If your hairline is still present (Sapphire FUE method may be more effective for re-creating completely lost hairlines).
If you are between the ages of 18 and 65.
If your hair loss pattern is noticeable (2-6 on the Norwood scale is suitable for men, 1-2 on the Ludwig scale is suitable for women).
If you have sufficient donor hair density and your hair follicles are healthy.
If your general health condition is good and you have no obstacles for the operation.
Do I need to shave my head for DHI hair transplantation?
There is no need to shave the transplantation area in DHI hair transplantation, but the donor area needs to be shaved. Not shaving the transplantation area is possible thanks to the direct transplantation using the Choi pen. Shaving the donor area is necessary because the hair follicles need to be short enough to be safely placed in the Choi pen.
What is the best age for DHI hair transplantation?
The most suitable age for DHI hair transplantation is between 25 and 60. In this age range, most people have established their hair loss pattern and become more suitable candidates for hair transplantation operations.
For which types of hair loss is DHI hair transplantation suitable?
DHI hair transplantation can be an effective solution for people with the following types of hair loss:
Shedding in sideburns
Shedding in temples
Shedding in the crown area
Correction after failed hair transplant
Covering scars from previous hair transplants
Covering the scalp with scars
Fibrous Alopecia (depending on the condition)
Alopecia Areata (in cases that do not respond to treatment within the first year)
Traction Alopecia (if hair loss has become permanent)
Can DHI hair transplantation be done with curly hair?
DHI hair transplantation can be applied with curly hair, but it is very important to take the hair follicles from the donor area correctly. Curly hair follicles usually have an angled structure, so if the wrong extraction is made, the hair follicles can be damaged. If the follicles are removed at the right angle, they can be safely transplanted with the DHI method and a natural look can be achieved by maintaining the same angle in the transplant area.
According to our experience, the biggest risk in curly hair transplants is the extraction of curly hair follicles at the wrong angle. If this process is done correctly, successful transplantation can be achieved using the Choi pen. However, some surgeons may avoid using the DHI method, especially for hair types 4a, 4b and 4c, because they may not have enough experience in the extraction of curly hair follicles.
Can women have DHI hair transplantation?
Yes, women can have DHI hair transplantation. Women generally prefer the DHI method because it does not require shaving the transplant area. In addition, the DHI technique is also very popular among women for eyebrow transplantation.
Can DHI hair transplantation be performed with thin donor hair?
Thin donor hair is not recommended for DHI hair transplantation, as survival rates may be low and may not produce satisfactory results.
If DHI hair transplantation is not suitable for you, what are the alternatives?
The best alternative to DHI hair transplantation is Sapphire FUE hair transplantation. DHI and Sapphire FUE are among the most advanced hair transplantation techniques and offer similar cost, minimal recovery time and natural yet impressive results.
What should you do before DHI hair transplantation?Before DHI hair transplantation, regulate your medication use as directed by your doctor and stay away from cigarettes, alcohol and illegal substances for at least 2 days, preferably 2 weeks before the procedure.
You should stop using Finasteride 7 days before the transplant and Minoxidil 10 days before. Also, if you are taking blood thinners, consult your doctor 7 days before your operation to evaluate your ability to stop.
How to find the best DHI hair transplant clinic?
When choosing a clinic for DHI hair transplantation, start your research by first verifying their certifications, experience with DHI, and success rates. Examine organic reviews on platforms such as Google, TrustPilot, and Reddit, and pay particular attention to before/after photos of patients with similar hair loss types to yours.
Look for clinics that offer transparent pricing, comprehensive packages, and limited number of procedures per day to maintain quality. Clinics where the surgeon is actively involved in the process, provides a detailed treatment plan, and has clear policies regarding emergencies or unsuccessful outcomes will be more reliable.
Make sure the clinic offers appropriate post-operative care and avoid places that promote undesirable techniques or unrealistic promises. Consider your options by speaking to multiple clinics before making your final decision.
What questions should you ask during your DHI hair transplant consultation?
To evaluate whether DHI hair transplantation is suitable for you, you can ask the following questions during your consultation:
“Do I have enough and high-quality donor hair?”
“How many grafts can I safely take without my donor area looking sparse?”
“Will more than one session be required to achieve the results I want?”
“Based on the characteristics of my scalp, what complications am I most at risk for?”
These questions will help you better understand your personal hair loss situation and the operation process.
What should you avoid after DHI hair transplantation?
After DHI hair transplantation, you should avoid smoking for at least two weeks and consuming caffeine for two days. You should avoid direct exposure to sunlight for at least two months and limit excessively salty or spicy foods to prevent inflammation.
You should avoid physical activity, exercise, and going to the gym for a month, and use a neck pillow to keep your head elevated while sleeping. For the first 10 days after the operation, you should wash your head and body separately, avoid sweating, and avoid shaving the transplanted area. You should wear loose clothing, such as a button-down shirt, to avoid contact with your scalp, and avoid dyeing your hair for six months.
What is the recovery process after DHI hair transplantation?
During the recovery process after DHI hair transplantation, minimal movement is recommended for the first 24 to 48 hours and a sleeping position with the head held high should be preferred. From the third day onwards, light washing can begin and crusting begins. The temporary shedding process begins between the seventh and fourteenth days as the crusts fall off.
Normal activities can usually be resumed between the second and fourth weeks. The shock shedding process continues for the first one to three months, then from the third month onwards new hair begins to grow and become stronger. By the twelfth month, full development of the hair is observed.
How long does it take for the donor area to heal after DHI hair transplantation?
After DHI hair transplantation, if the hair follicles were taken with the FUE method, the donor area heals in approximately 10 days.
Does DHI hair transplantation heal faster?
Yes, DHI hair transplantation heals faster because the Choi pen creates an incision with a needle instead of a scalpel in the transplantation area, which causes less damage to the tissue.
When can you get a haircut after DHI hair transplantation?
After DHI hair transplantation, you can cut the hair in the donor area with scissors after 1 month, and shave it with a protective cap after 2 months.
What are the side effects of DHI hair transplantation?
The most common side effects of DHI hair transplantation include swelling, mild discomfort, itching and crusting. Shock loss may occur in the transplant area and the donor area. Complications such as infection, serious scarring and low graft retention are extremely rare.
How long does swelling last after DHI hair transplantation?
Swelling after DHI hair transplantation lasts about a week. Swelling is a normal and expected side effect caused by the stress applied to the tissue and the amount of local anesthetic injected.
Does DHI hair transplantation leave scars?
Since DHI hair transplantation is performed using the Choi pen, it does not leave any visible scars in the transplantation area. Since the hair follicles are transplanted directly with a needle instead of pre-opened linear incisions, the scars are almost unnoticeable.
The scars in the donor area depend on the hair follicle collection method used. Graft collection with the FUT method leaves a long and horizontal scar, while graft collection with the FUE method leaves scattered, small circular scars of 1 mm width in the donor area.
Does DHI hair transplantation cause shock fertilization?
Yes, DHI hair transplantation can cause shock loss like other hair transplantation methods. Shock loss occurs due to the stress created by the hair transplantation process and the displacement of the hair follicle. This causes the hair to quickly enter the catagen phase and appear to be falling out. However, the hair follicles remain healthy and the regrowth process begins in approximately 120 days.
When will you start seeing the results of DHI hair transplantation?
Hair growth begins 5-6 months after DHI hair transplantation and full results are achieved within 12-18 months.
During the first month, patients usually experience the initial growth phase, but between the second and third months, the transplanted hair falls out as a natural process. Between the fourth and sixth months, new hair growth begins, which is the first stage of visible progress. Between the seventh and ninth months, the hair becomes more noticeable and increases in density. After 12 to 18 months, full results are achieved, and the final transformation of the hair transplant is complete.
Does the hair transplanted with DHI hair transplantation grow faster?
No, there is no scientific evidence that hair transplanted with the DHI method grows faster than hair transplanted with other techniques or natural hair.
How thick will the hair transplanted with DHI hair transplantation be?
With DHI hair transplantation, the transplanted hair grows in the same thickness as the hair in the donor area. Grafts containing 2-3 hair follicles may appear as hair growing from a single point, creating a denser hair appearance.
Will the transplanted hair turn white after DHI hair transplantation?
Yes, hair transplanted with DHI hair transplantation or other hair transplantation methods may turn white over time as the patient ages. Since the transplanted hair preserves the genetic characteristics of the hair in the donor area, it adapts to the person’s natural whitening process.
Is DHI hair transplantation permanent?
Yes, the hair follicles transplanted with DHI hair transplantation are permanent. However, the person’s existing natural hair may continue to thin over time. Factors affecting the permanence of hair transplantation include donor hair quality, ongoing hair loss process, post-operative care, general health status and genetic factors.
Will the transplanted hair fall out in DHI hair transplantation?
Yes, it is normal to lose 5% to 10% of the transplanted hair after DHI hair transplantation. The survival rate of the follicle in DHI hair transplantation varies between 90% and 95%, and some hair follicles may be lost, usually due to trauma during transplantation. These possible losses are calculated during transplantation and the procedure is planned. If you experience more hair loss after transplantation, the hair that is lost is most likely your natural hair, not the transplanted grafts.
Can DHI hair transplantation be repeated?
Yes, DHI hair transplantation can be repeated. If the patient is not satisfied with the results, experiences additional hair loss, or needs more grafts that cannot be transplanted in a single session, a second DHI hair transplantation procedure can be performed.