Knowing the difference between FUE and DHI techniques is essential when deciding to perform a hair transplant operation. The surgeon can use both techniques in this operation, but they are different. The main difference lies in effect after the procedure and the expected result. Therefore, it prompted many to ask about the difference between the two techniques and whether it is effective or not.
What are the FUE and DHI techniques?
FUE extraction is one of the leading and first techniques to be relied upon in hair transplantation operations. This process involves extracting hair follicles from the donor area, selecting the best ones, and then opening the channels with a sharp instrument. Then the extracted follicles are implanted again in the area affected by baldness.
DHI technique (Choi pens): this technique is considered one of the latest extraction techniques, with minimal expended time and effort in the extraction process. The doctor resorts to employing unique pens for each patient. These pens function by planting donor follicles directly within the balding area without the need to open channels before implanting the follicles because these pens open the channels and sew the follicles simultaneously.
Main differences between FUE and DHI techniques
The FUE technique must go through the stage of preservation, which is carried out through a specially prepared solution and choose the most appropriate ones to perform the hair transplant operation. But in the DHI technique, this stage is not needed because the cultivation is done directly.
The FUE technique needs preparation by opening several holes that will be used in the hair transplant operation. On the other hand, the DHI technique doesn’t need holes.
Despite the fewer steps of the DHI technique, the hair transplantation operation in the FUE technique is faster than the DHI technique and doesn’t consume many capabilities.
The FUE technique is considered an old technique, as it appeared a long time before the emergence of the DHI technique. Despite that, the FUE technique didn’t disappear with the emergence of other new techniques; instead, it is still one of the most important techniques used in hair transplantation.
Advantages and disadvantages of FUE and DHI techniques in hair transplantation
The DHI technique is characterized by providing the transplanted hair without the need for shaving, while in the FUE technique, the transplanted hair needs to be shaved or shortened.
The FUE process takes less time than the DHI process.
Cultivation through the DHI technique provides about 80 to 90 bulbs per square centimeter, while the number of follicles doesn’t exceed 60 bulbs when using the FUE technique.
The process of hair transplantation using the DHI technique doesn’t require certain conditions related to the patient’s health or age, as it is the most appropriate hair transplant technique for people who have diabetes and high blood pressure. In contrast, in the FUE technique, patients with diabetes or high blood pressure should control their sugar and blood pressure levels before the operation to prevent any risks.
After the operation, the FUE technique leaves some traces until complete recovery. Still, in the DHI technique, there are no symptoms five to seven days after the procedure, the traces of transplantation disappear, and the affected area recovers rapidly.
The wounds and scars that appear after the operation in FUE and DHI techniques
FUE technique leaves superficial and small wounds with small circular holes scattered, and its recovery period is relatively long. These wounds don’t appear when using the DHI technique, as it depends on using a tool to extract small follicles and doesn’t result in any circular wounds. The wounds caused by hair transplant operation are one of the most critical points you have to consider, as it depends on the health status of the patient and the ability of wound healing.
The cost of the FUE and DHI techniques
Anyone who thinks about getting a hair transplant will first think about the cost of the operation and whether it will be suitable or not. The FUE technique is cheaper compared to the DHI technique. It is due to the advanced devices and technologies used in the DHI technique.
Finally, it is critical to know the difference between the FUE and DHI hair transplantation techniques before deciding to perform the operation, to understand the advantages and disadvantages of each technique. It will help you choose the appropriate and suitable technique in proportion to your case to obtain the best result.