Hair transplant guide
FUE vs. DHI: Hair Transplant Techniques Explained
FUE and DHI both move individual hair follicles from a donor area to thinning areas. The main difference is how the follicles are placed. Neither is simply better; your surgeon recommends an approach after assessing your hair and donor area.
FUE and DHI Compared
| FUE | DHI | |
|---|---|---|
| How follicles are taken | One by one, with a small punch tool | One by one, in the same way as FUE |
| How they are placed | Small channels are opened first, then the grafts are placed | Grafts are loaded into a pen-like implanter and placed directly |
| Often discussed for | Larger areas that need many grafts | Smaller or defined areas, or adding density between existing hair |
| Shaving | Usually needed for the areas being treated | Partial or no shaving is sometimes possible, depending on the case |
What Both Have in Common
- No linear strip scar; tiny dot scars in the donor area.
- The donor supply is limited and must be planned.
- Planning, skill, and aftercare matter more than the technique name.
- Recovery is broadly similar.
What Affects the Choice
- The pattern and size of the thinning area.
- Donor density and hair characteristics.
- Whether you still have hair in the area.
- Previous procedures and your surgeon’s assessment.
Red Flags to Watch For
- A technique promised before your photos are reviewed.
- A guaranteed graft number or result.
- No clear answer on who performs each step.
- Very large graft numbers in one day without explanation.
Questions Worth Asking
- Which technique do you recommend for me, and why?
- How many grafts do you estimate, and what is it based on?
- Who performs extraction and placement?
- How is my donor area protected for the future?
What Affects the Plan and Cost
- Technique and size of the area.
- Estimated number of grafts.
- Whether shaving is needed.
- Length of stay, medication, and follow-up.
We do not publish prices. Ask for a written plan that lists what is included.
Planning your trip? Read our hair transplant recovery timeline or go back to Hair Transplant in Istanbul, Turkey.
FUE vs. DHI FAQ
Is DHI better than FUE?
Not in general. Both can work well in suitable cases. The right choice depends on your hair, your donor area, and your goals, and on your surgeon’s assessment.
Does DHI mean no shaving?
Partial or no shaving is sometimes possible, but it depends on your case and the size of the area. Your surgeon confirms this.
Is recovery different after FUE and DHI?
Recovery is broadly similar: small scabs, shedding in the first weeks, and gradual growth over months. See our recovery timeline.
Can I choose the technique myself?
You can share your preference, but the surgeon recommends the approach that suits your case.
Content last reviewed: October 2026. General information only; it does not replace an examination by a surgeon.
Find the Right Approach for Your Hair
Share a few photos, and we will guide you through a preliminary review with a hair transplant clinic.