DHI places each graft directly into the scalp with a Choi implanter pen — giving our surgeons fine control of angle, depth and direction for considered density and a natural-looking hairline, with an unshaven option in suitable cases.
DHI (Direct Hair Implantation) combines individual graft extraction with implantation through a Choi pen. The result is fine control over how each follicle is placed.
With DHI, each follicular unit is loaded into a Choi implanter pen and placed into the scalp in a single movement. There is no separate channel-opening step — the graft is implanted directly, reducing the time follicles spend outside the body.
The pen tip lets the surgeon set the exact angle, depth and direction of every graft. That control is what helps the hairline and parting follow your natural growth pattern for a natural-looking result.
Because channels are not pre-cut, grafts can be placed close together in a planned pattern. DHI is frequently chosen for the frontal hairline and zones where considered density matters most.
For some patients the recipient area does not need a full shave, so existing hair can help conceal the early healing phase. Suitability depends on your hair, graft numbers and plan — your surgeon confirms this at consultation.
DHI suits many patients, but it is not the only option. A surgeon confirms the most suitable approach for your case during consultation.
Good to know
From the first online consultation to follow-up after you fly home, here is how a DHI procedure with our surgical team unfolds.
Share photos in a free online consultation. Our surgeons assess your donor area and hair loss pattern, then design a hairline and graft plan tailored to your face.
On procedure day we confirm the plan and design with you. Local anesthesia is applied, with needle-free anesthesia options available for added comfort.
Individual follicular units are harvested one by one from the donor area and carefully sorted and preserved, ready for direct implantation.
Each graft is loaded into the implanter pen and placed directly into the recipient area, with the surgeon controlling angle, depth and direction throughout.
Before you fly home you receive a first wash, an aftercare kit and clear instructions, plus 7/24 support and follow-up as your hair grows over the following months.
| At a glance | DHI (Choi pen) | Sapphire FUE |
|---|---|---|
| Recipient site | Graft implanted directly with the Choi pen — no separate channel step. | Channels opened with sapphire blades, then grafts placed. |
| Best-known strengths | Hairline detail, controlled density, frequent unshaven option. | Versatile for larger areas and broad coverage. |
| Shaving | Unshaven option in suitable cases. | Usually involves shaving the recipient and donor area. |
Still deciding? Read about Sapphire FUE or see all techniques.
Smile Hair Clinic was founded by surgeons. Your DHI procedure is planned and led by our team, with the founders overseeing technique and hairline design.
Co-Founder & Hair Transplant Surgeon
4,000+ operations
Co-Founder & Hair Transplant Surgeon
4,500+ operations
Answers to the questions international patients ask most about DHI and the Choi implanter pen.
After a free online consultation where you share photos of your hair, our surgeons assess your donor area, hair loss pattern and goals to recommend a suitable technique and graft plan.
Have a question that is not covered here? Ask our team.
Share a few photos and your goals. Our surgeons review your case and recommend a technique and graft plan — with transparent, all-inclusive package pricing and no hidden fees.
Results vary from person to person. Consult your doctor before any procedure. DHI is a surgical procedure; suitability, the technique used and the number of grafts are determined by your surgeon. Information on this page is for general guidance and is not a substitute for individual medical advice.