Which is the Best Technique for Hair Transplantation?

Many people who have hair loss problems are researching hair transplantation methods in search of a permanent solution. However, the different techniques we come across can cause confusion. FUE, DHI, Sapphire FUE… So, which is really the “best” hair transplantation technique? 

In this blog post, Este Marley aims to help you make the right choice by comparing different hair transplantation techniques. Remember, the “best” technique may vary from person to person and the important thing is to determine the one that best suits your needs.

Basic Principles in Hair Transplantation

Hair transplantation is generally based on the principle of taking healthy hair follicles (grafts) from the donor area (usually the nape) and transplanting them to the balding or sparse area. A successful hair transplant aims to achieve natural-looking, dense and permanent results. Different techniques differ in the way they apply this basic principle.

Common Hair Transplant Techniques and Features:

1. FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction):
   
   • How is it applied?
     In the FUE technique, hair follicles from the donor area are taken one by one with the help of special micro motors and punches (0.6-1.0 mm in diameter). The grafts taken are preserved in special solutions until the transplantation process. In the area where the transplantation will be done, small channels are opened with special fine-tipped tools and the collected grafts are placed in these channels.
   • Advantages:
     
     • There are no visible incisions or stitches in the donor area.
     • Provides a faster healing process.
     • Grafts can be taken from more than one donor area (such as chest, beard).
     • More natural looking results can be achieved.
   • Disadvantages:
     • The operation time may be longer than the FUT technique.
     • It requires more expertise and attention.
2. DHI (Direct Hair Implantation):
   • How to Apply?
     The DHI technique is based on the principle of placing the grafts obtained with the FUE method directly into the area to be transplanted using a special medical pen (Choi implanter). This pen can perform channel opening and graft placement at the same time.
   • Advantages:
     • Since the waiting period of the grafts is shorter, their vitality rates may be higher.
     • It offers the potential to achieve a denser and more dense appearance in the transplanted area.
     • Provides more precise control over the angle of hair growth.
     • It may be a suitable option for hair transplantation without shaving (with partial shaving).
   • Disadvantages:
     • Implementation requires more experience and expertise.
     • The cost may be slightly higher than the FUE technique.
     • Since each graft is processed individually, the operation time may be longer.
3. Sapphire FUE:
   • How is it applied?
     Sapphire FUE is actually a variation of the FUE technique. The main difference is in the material of the tips used in the channel opening phase. While steel tips are used in traditional FUE, Sapphire FUE uses sharper and smoother sapphire (a precious stone) tips. Grafts are again taken one by one with the FUE method.
   • Advantages:
     • Thanks to the sharper tips, smaller and more precise channels can be opened.
     • It offers the potential for less tissue damage and faster healing.
     • The more frequent and natural-looking results are the more likely you are to achieve.
     • The crusting period may be shorter.
   • Disadvantages:
     • The cost may be slightly higher than the FUE technique.
     • Since it is basically the FUE technique, other disadvantages of FUE also apply to this technique.
4. FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) / Strip Method:
   
   • How is it applied?
     In the FUT technique, a strip-shaped piece of skin is removed from the donor area with a surgical incision. This piece of skin is separated into single or multiple hair follicles (follicular units) under a microscope. These grafts are then placed in channels opened in the bald area. The incision in the donor area is stitched closed.
   • Advantages:
     • More grafts can be obtained in a single session.
     • Its cost is generally lower than other techniques.
     • It is a well-established technique that has been used for many years.
   • Disadvantages:
     • A visible stitch scar remains in the donor area.
     • The recovery process is longer than FUE and more discomfort may be felt.
     • Limited movement in the donor area may continue for a while.
     • Achieving more natural looking results may be more difficult than with FUE.

Which Technique Is Best For You?

It is not right to make a general judgment about the “best” hair transplantation technique. Many factors such as the degree of hair loss, hair density in the donor area, hair type, budget, expectations and the experience of the doctor determine which technique is more suitable.

• Intense Hair Loss and Large Areas: In cases where a large number of grafts are needed, FUT may have been more advantageous in the past. However, today, with advanced FUE techniques and combinations, a large number of grafts can be obtained.
• Those Who Want Minimal Scars and Fast Recovery: FUE, DHI and Sapphire FUE techniques can be preferred because they leave minimal scars in the donor area and offer faster recovery.
• Those Who Prioritize a Natural Look: FUE and DHI techniques are advantageous in achieving natural-looking results as they offer more precise control over the hair growth angle. The smaller channels opened with Sapphire FUE also support a natural look.
• Budget: While the FUT technique can often be more cost-effective, FUE, DHI, and Sapphire FUE can be a bit more costly. However, long-term satisfaction and natural appearance are also important factors in evaluating the cost.

Our Approach as Este Marley

At our Este Marley clinic, we evaluate each of our patients individually and determine the most appropriate hair transplantation technique for their needs. Our expert doctors provide you with the most appropriate treatment plan by performing a detailed hair analysis, listening to your expectations and considering the characteristics of your donor area. Our aim is to provide you with the most natural, intense and permanent results, with the most modern techniques and the highest patient satisfaction.

Before You Make Your Decision:

• Do Detailed Research: Learn about different techniques.
• Consult a Specialist: Have your hair analyzed and get information about the technique that suits you best.
• Be Careful When Choosing a Clinic: Choose a clinic with an experienced team and a hygienic environment.
• Clarify Your Expectations: Be clear with your doctor about the results you want.

Remember, hair transplantation is a personal choice and the “best” technique is the one that suits you best. As Estemarley, we are happy to support you in making the right decision and achieving the hair of your dreams. Feel free to contact us for more information and a free online consultation.