Skin & Laser
FUE and DHI are the two names patients hear most. They are closely related, and choosing between them is less about which is better and more about which suits your hair and goals.
What they have in common
Both are follicular unit techniques. In both, individual follicles are removed one by one from the back and sides of the scalp with a micro-punch under local anaesthesia. There is no strip and no linear scar.
Where they differ
The difference is in how grafts are placed:
- FUE: the doctor first opens tiny channels in the recipient area at the planned angle, then grafts are placed into them with fine forceps.
- DHI: each graft is loaded into a Choi implanter pen, which creates the opening and implants the follicle in a single motion.
When FUE makes sense
FUE is efficient for larger areas, such as front and crown together, and for sessions of 3,000 grafts or more. It is the usual choice for Norwood 4 and above.
When DHI makes sense
DHI gives fine control over angle and depth, graft by graft. It is well suited to:
- Hairlines and temples, where precision is visible
- Adding density between existing hair without damaging it
- Patients who prefer an unshaven or partially shaved procedure
- Many women with thinning at the parting
In practice, many of our plans use both: DHI to build the hairline, FUE for the area behind it.
Results and recovery
When performed well, results and recovery are very similar. What matters more than the name of the technique is who designs the hairline, how the donor area is managed and how carefully grafts are handled.
How to decide
Bring photos and your goals to a consultation. Your doctor will look at your donor density, the area to treat and how you wear your hair, and recommend FUE, DHI or a combination.
Questions people ask
Is DHI more expensive than FUE?
DHI usually takes longer per graft, so for the same number of grafts it can cost more. Your quote depends on your plan.
Which has faster recovery, FUE or DHI?
Recovery is very similar. Both leave small scabs that clear within about two weeks.
Can FUE and DHI be combined?
Yes. Many plans use DHI for the hairline and FUE for larger areas behind it.
This page is for general information and does not replace a medical consultation. Suitability, results and the number of sessions vary from person to person and are confirmed by our physician before treatment.
