DHI (Direct Hair Implantation) represents the most advanced evolution of FUE hair transplantation. Using specialized Choi implanter pens, surgeons can achieve higher density, faster healing, and up to 98% graft survival rates. In Medellín, DHI costs $1.50-$3.00 per graft — a fraction of US prices.
What Is DHI Hair Transplant?
DHI is an advanced hair transplant technique where grafts are extracted and immediately implanted using a specialized tool called a Choi Implanter Pen. Unlike traditional FUE, where grafts are stored in solution before manual placement, DHI minimizes the time grafts spend outside the body — resulting in higher survival rates.
How the Choi Pen Works
The Choi implanter is a pen-shaped device with a hollow needle (0.5-1.0mm). The extracted follicle is loaded directly into the pen, then the surgeon places the tip at the recipient site, pushes a plunger, and the graft is simultaneously implanted at the correct angle and depth.
This "extract and implant" approach means:
- • Grafts spend less time outside the body (higher survival)
- • No need to pre-create recipient sites (less trauma)
- • More control over angle and direction (more natural results)
- • Can implant between existing hairs without damaging them
DHI vs Traditional FUE
| Factor | DHI | FUE |
|---|---|---|
| Implantation Method | Choi pen (direct) | Forceps into pre-made slits |
| Graft Survival Rate | Up to 98% | 90-95% |
| Density Possible | Higher (80-120 grafts/cm²) | Standard (40-60 grafts/cm²) |
| Shaving Required | Often no (unshaven DHI) | Usually yes |
| Time Out of Body | Minimal (seconds) | Minutes to hours |
| Cost (Medellín) | $1.50-$3.00/graft | $1.00-$2.50/graft |
| Best For | Hairline, density, existing hair | Large areas, cost-conscious |
Benefits of DHI
Higher Graft Survival
Up to 98% of transplanted grafts survive, compared to 90-95% with traditional FUE. Less time outside the body means healthier follicles.
Greater Density
Achieve 80-120 grafts per cm² vs 40-60 with FUE. Ideal for creating dense, natural-looking hairlines.
Faster Recovery
No pre-made incisions means less trauma. Many patients see reduced swelling and faster healing compared to FUE.
No Shaving Required
"Unshaven DHI" allows transplantation without shaving the recipient area — ideal for those who can't take time off work.
Better Angle Control
The Choi pen allows precise control over implantation angle and direction, creating more natural hair growth patterns.
Safe Around Existing Hair
Can implant between existing hairs without damaging them — perfect for early-stage hair loss or adding density.
Who Is DHI Best For?
Ideal DHI Candidates
- Hairline restoration — Where precise angle and density matter most
- Early-stage hair loss — Adding density without damaging existing hair
- Those who can't shave — Unshaven DHI allows discretion
- Beard/eyebrow transplants — Where precision is critical
- Touch-up procedures — Adding density to previous transplants
When FUE Might Be Better
For very large sessions (4,000+ grafts) covering extensive areas like the crown, traditional FUE may be more practical and cost-effective. DHI excels at precision work but is more time-intensive per graft. Your surgeon can recommend the best approach for your specific situation.
DHI Cost in Medellín
DHI carries a 20-30% premium over standard FUE due to the specialized equipment and additional time required. In Medellín, expect to pay $1.50 to $3.00 per graft for DHI.
| Graft Count | Medellín DHI | USA DHI | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1,500 grafts | $2,250 – $4,500 | $9,000 – $15,000 | $6,750 – $10,500 |
| 2,500 grafts | $3,750 – $7,500 | $15,000 – $25,000 | $11,250 – $17,500 |
| 3,500 grafts | $5,250 – $10,500 | $21,000 – $35,000 | $15,750 – $24,500 |
Is the DHI Premium Worth It?
For hairline work or when maximum density matters, yes. The higher graft survival and precision often justify the 20-30% price difference. For covering large areas with lower density requirements, standard FUE delivers excellent results at lower cost.
DHI Recovery Timeline
Mild swelling and redness. Tiny scabs form around each implanted graft. Sleep elevated. Avoid touching the recipient area. Many patients report less discomfort than with traditional FUE.
Begin gentle washing. Swelling subsides. Scabs start falling off. Most patients can return to desk work. Donor area largely healed.
Scabs fully resolved. Safe to fly home. Redness fading. Can resume light exercise. Grafts are secure.
"Shock loss" phase — transplanted hairs shed while follicles enter resting phase. Completely normal. The follicles remain healthy beneath the surface.
New growth emerges around month 3-4. Visible improvement by month 6. Full results at 12-18 months. DHI patients often see faster initial growth due to higher graft survival.
Interested in DHI in Medellín?
Get a free consultation and find out if DHI is right for your hair restoration goals. Our vetted surgeons can recommend the best approach for your situation.
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