Hair Transplant Techniques: A Comparison of FUE, DHI, Sapphire and Robotic Methods (2026)

Many people spend weeks comparing the names of hair transplant techniques without really understanding what these terms actually refer to. This confusion is understandable. Clinics, Do you have? , Sapphire FUE and They use terms such as ‘robotic DHI’ as if they were separate surgical procedures ; however, these are not separate processes. These are variations of two basic categories.

MEDICALLY REVIEWED

Dr Servet Terziler

AAACI-Accredited Surgeon, Member of the ISHRS and Inventor of Robotic DHI

Updated in June 2026

This content has been reviewed by Dr Servet Terziler with regard to medical accuracy, the classification of hair transplant techniques, graft survival, robotic DHI, donor site safety and patient suitability.

Every hair transplant consists of two stages: Retrieval of follicular units from the donor site and implantation into the recipient site . The technical name indicates how each stage is carried out . FUT and FUE refer to the extraction of follicular units . Choi pen, forceps and Robotic systems, on the other hand, define sowing . Everything else (Sapphire FUE, DHI, Micro FUE, Ice FUE) is a sub-category of one of these categories.

This page provides a detailed overview of every technique in clinical use in 2026, including graft survival rates, pain scores, recovery times, and which technique yields the best results for which hair type, stage of hair loss and body area.

In summary

• FUE is best suited to cases involving a high graft volume (more than 3,000 grafts). It is a good option when a high number of grafts per session is the priority.
• DHI is the best method for achieving a dense hairline. It has the highest survival rate, at 90–97 per cent. Slightly fewer grafts are used per session.
• Robotic DHI offers the highest precision. It is the best option for an artistic hairline and maximum density.
• FUT is the least expensive and highest-volume method per session. It leaves a linear scar. It is most suitable for Norwood grades 6–7.
• Sapphire FUE and Micro FUE are refinements of the FUE technique; they are not separate techniques.
• According to the ISHRS, DHI is not a hair transplant technique. DHI is an implantation tool.

What Are the Main Hair Transplant Techniques?

There are four clinically recognised categories of hair transplant techniques: FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) , FUE (Follicular Unit Excision) , created using a Choi pen DHI Implantation and Robotic DHI . All other terms you may come across (Sapphire FUE, Ice FUE, Gold FUE, Nano FUE, Micro FUE) It describes a variation of a tool within one of these four techniques , it is not a separate procedure.

IMPORTANT: Sapphire FUE, Ice FUE, Gold FUE, nano FUE and micro FUE are not recognised as separate techniques by the ISHRS. These terms refer to variations in the instruments used within standard FUE. A clinic that markets these techniques as separate innovations is using commercial terminology rather than clinical classification.

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What is the FUE Hair Transplant Technique?

In the FUE (Follicular Unit Excision) method, Follicular units are extracted one by one from the donor site, usually using a circular micro-punch with a diameter of 0.8 to 1.0 mm . Each punch is rotated into the scalp around a single follicular unit, and the unit is removed in its entirety. A linear incision is not made . The donor site, when the hair grows longer than 1 cm which has become invisible, It heals with scattered circular micro-scars.

The FUE method achieves a graft survival rate of 90–95 per cent when performed by experienced practitioners . The most critical quality variable is the breakage rate, which is the percentage of follicles damaged during extraction. A skilled surgeon achieves a cut rate of less than 5 per cent . Clinics that leave extractions to technicians who have not received adequate training It achieves a cut-off rate of over 15–20 per cent ; this means that one in every five grafts fails before it has even been implanted.

FUE hair transplant, It is suitable for most types of hair loss and hair types. This is the standard technique for patients who want short hairstyles after surgery, as there is no linear scar that needs to be concealed. The number of grafts per session varies between 1,500 and 4,500, depending on donor density and the surface area of the scalp.

1. SERVET TERZİLER, MD | AAACI | ISHRS WORKSHOP

“The punch size we select for each patient is determined by measuring the diameter of the follicular shaft under trichoscopy. In a thin follicle, a 0.9 mm punch causes unnecessary scarring. In a thick shaft, however, a 0.8 mm punch increases the risk of cutting. Calibration is carried out before, rather than after, the first extraction.”

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What is the Sapphire FUE Hair Transplant Technique?

Safir FUE is a standard FUE technique in which the blade used to create recipient channels is made of sapphire crystal rather than surgical steel . A sapphire tip is harder (Mohs hardness 9, compared to 6–7 for steel) and It creates a V-shaped channel instead of the U-shaped channel formed by the steel blades. A sharper geometry reduces tissue displacement during canal preparation; this may reduce micro-inflammation and the formation of scabs It can increase the speed by 20–30 per cent compared with steel.

The ISHRS does not classify Sapphire FUE as a separate technique. It is described as an improvement on the standard FUE technique . The graft survival rate is the same as with standard FUE (90–95 per cent), because the survival rate is primarily It is determined more by the extraction rate, the processing of the graft and the storage solution than by the material of the channel blade.

Safir FUE, patients with sensitive skin , patients who have undergone high-density filling in the small recipient area and This is the most suitable method for patients who wish to speed up the healing of scabs . There is a modest additional cost, which is justified by the improved recovery profile in the right candidate.

To date, no large-scale study has been conducted to compare the outcomes of sapphire blades versus steel blades in a randomised controlled trial that has undergone peer review, with graft survival as the primary endpoint. The benefits in terms of healing have been clinically observed and are consistent; however, the lack of RCT data means that sapphire FUE should not be marketed as offering a proven improvement in survival rates. Dr Terziler presents this fact honestly.

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What is the Micro FUE Hair Transplant Technique?

with a diameter of 0.6 to 0.8 mm, which is smaller than the standard range of 0.8 to 1.0 mm This is an FUE procedure performed using a single needle. A smaller needle leaves smaller micro-scars in the donor area; this is ideal for those who keep their hair very short (scissor length 0–1) and do not want visible scars in the donor area It is the greatest benefit for patients.

The ISHRS does not recognise Micro FUE as a distinct technique. Punch size is a surgical variable , this is not a classification of procedures. The appropriate punch size for each patient depends on the follicular shaft diameter, which is measured by trichoscopy prior to the procedure. A 0.7 mm punch applied to a thick follicular shaft reduces the risk of cutting significantly increases it. This is not a universal improvement.

Micro FUE increases the risk of the follicular shaft being severed, as the curvature of the shaft already poses a risk Not recommended for patients with Afro-type hair or thick hair follicles . Dr Terziler selects the punch size following follicular mapping; the punch is guided by the patient, not the other way round.

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What is the DHI Hair Transplant Technique?

, a sharp, hollow instrument known as a Choi implantation pen describes the use of a device; this device opens a micro-channel in a single movement and implants the follicular unit . The graft is loaded onto the Choi pen, the pen is positioned at the required angle and depth, and the graft is placed directly into position. There is no waiting time between channel creation and implantation.

The ISHRS states clearly: DHI is not a hair transplant method, but an implantation tool. Donor Hair can be harvested using the FUE or FUT method before commencing Choi pen implantation.

DHI hair transplant, because it reduces the time each graft spends outside the body by eliminating the need for a pre-prepared tunnel It achieves graft survival rates of 90–97 per cent (higher than standard FUE). This period is known as the ischaemic window: the period during which the follicle depletes its ATP energy reserves. A shorter ischaemic period = a higher survival rate . The Choi pen reduces the time taken for this procedure from minutes to seconds per graft.

The diameter of the Choi pen is clinically significant. The standard Choi pen has a diameter of 0.75 mm. Dr Terziler Exclusive Clinic uses the 0.70 mm Choi pen, which is the thinnest available for clinical use. This A difference of 0.05 mm reduces the receiver channel width , reduces the risk of hyperpigmentation in people with darker skin types (Fitzpatrick V–VI) and enables grafts to be placed more densely without exceeding the vascular capacity of the scalp .

The ISHRS also emphasises that sharp Choi points out that the ‘Choi pen’ procedure involves making an incision in the skin and that, for this reason, it must be performed by a licensed surgeon rather than a technician . At Dr Terziler Exclusive Clinic, the implantation procedure is carried out personally by Dr Terziler in every case.

1. SERVET TERZİLER, MD | AAACI | ISHRS MEMBERSHIP

“Any clinic that refers to DHI as a ‘technique’ is misusing the ISHRS’s own terminology, and this is significant because it means patients cannot accurately compare the options available to them. DHI refers to the Choi pen. The tissue extraction method is still either FUE or FUT. A patient booking ‘FUE + DHI implantation’ is booking a procedure that is fully and accurately described. A patient booking simply ‘DHI’, however, is being sold an incomplete description.”

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What is the Robotic DHI Hair Transplant Technique?

, angle control , depth consistency and human error in the calculation of graft density reducing AI-assisted graft selection in a system and combines it with Choi pen implantation. The robotic DHI machine was invented by Dr Servet Terziler ; this is a situation where every engineering decision is made not by a corporate team, but by a practising surgeon, It is the only robotic DHI system developed within an active surgical practice.

O DHI Robotics the system, with an average time outside the body of less than 90 seconds per graft, , all the hair transplant techniques currently available achieves the shortest duration among them. This is the key driving force behind the graft survival rate of up to 97 per cent . The system uses AI-assisted placement to ensure consistent angulation at thousands of implantation sites and eliminates the factor of fatigue, which affects human implantation accuracy during long sessions.

O Picasso Robotics DHI’s The defining feature is not the robot, but the hairline. Before any implantation begins, Dr Terziler manually and individually sketches the hairline for each patient, taking into account their facial structure, age and hair characteristics. This is an artistic assessment that no robot can replace. It is precisely because of this process that Dr Terziler is known as the ‘Picasso of Hair’. The machine carries out the implantation. The surgeon designs the framework.

With robotic DHI, graft survival rates reach up to 97 per cent under optimal conditions . This The success rate is 90–97 per cent for standard DHI and 90–95 per cent for standard FUE . This difference is significant for large procedures, where marginal improvements in survival translate into hundreds of additional viable grafts.

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What is the best hair transplant technique in 2026?

In 2026, the best hair transplant technique for patients prioritising hairline density and natural-looking results is DHI using the Choi pen implantation method . Robotics DHI is the best option for patients who want both the highest precision and an artistically designed hairline . FUE is suitable for those requiring large graft volumes (3,000+) in a single session and is best suited to patients for whom speed and volume are more important than the precision of implantation. FUT is best suited to patients who require the highest possible number of grafts in a single session and are not concerned about a linear donor scar.

There is no single ‘best’ technique for all patients. The technique should be determined on the basis of a clinical assessment: donor density , scalp laxity , hair type , pattern of shedding and target outcome . At Dr Terziler Exclusive Clinic, every technical recommendation is based on a pre-operative trichoscopic assessment. Rather than being ‘sold’ to the patient, the technique is selected specifically for each individual patient.

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What Are the Latest Hair Transplant Techniques in 2026?

The honest answer regarding 2026 is that the fundamental principles have not changed. FUE, DHI and FUT remain the three clinical categories. What is truly new is not so much the introduction of new categories, but rather the supportive protocols that improve outcomes within each technique. (storage solutions, AI-guided guidance, punch engineering and a combination of PRP) is being developed.

Robotic DHI is the most significant development of the last three years. The Robotic DHI system, developed by Dr Servet Terziler, is the only robotic DHI device produced by a practising surgeon and It reduces the time taken for extracorporeal grafting to under 90 seconds; this is a figure that no other system has yet been able to achieve . AI-assisted angle mapping is emerging at the research stage but has not yet reached clinical standard. ATP-enhanced graft preservation (discussed in the biology section below) has been adopted by leading clinics and significantly improves outcomes in large procedures.

The one area where no significant progress has been made is as follows: Robotic FUE extraction systems such as ARTAS achieve graft survival rates of between 88 per cent and 95 per cent ; these rates are comparable to those achieved with expert manual FUE, but do not exceed them. Although the robot is superior in terms of consistency and speed, it is not yet able to outperform an experienced surgeon in complex anatomical cases. Turkey accounts for 25–35 per cent of the global hair transplant market using a specialised manual technique, and , the results are the same as those obtained by robotic extraction, or It is of a higher standard, whilst the cost is 30–50 per cent lower.

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What is the biological basis for choosing a hair transplant technique?

Transplanted hair follicle a cluster of living cells. From the donor’s scalp the moment he left is removed from the bloodstream and ATP begins to deplete its energy reserves . ATP (adenosine triphosphate), every cell survival , division and the energy it requires to function unit. When ATP is depleted, the follicle dies.

At room temperature and without a storage solution , the viability of the grafts is approximately two hours then begins to decrease . In the fourth hour , Survival rates in unprotected grafts decrease significantly . At the sixth hour, however, many The graft loses its viability before it is even implanted . For this reason, the time spent outside the body is the most important quality criterion in hair transplant surgery, and virtually no clinic publishes this figure.

The graft survival rates obtained after five days’ storage under different conditions are as follows: Hypothermol plus ATP achieved a 72 per cent survival rate . Only Hypothermol achieved a survival rate of 44 per cent, whilst plain saline solution achieved a survival rate of 0 per cent. (Research by Dr Jerry Cooley.) This is, that ATP is not an optional additive, but is functionally critical for maintaining graft viability during longer procedures confirms this. Dr Terziler uses the ATP-enhanced storage method as standard protocol for all sessions involving more than 2,500 grafts.

This biological mechanism directly explains why DHI outperforms standard FUE in terms of graft survival. The Choi pen eliminates the waiting time between channel creation and implantation; grafts are never left to wait in a holding tray whilst the channels are being created. The robotic DHI system takes this a step further by, It achieves an extracorporeal time of less than 90 seconds per graft on average . This is the shortest duration of any technique currently used in clinical practice.

1. SERVET TERZİLER, MD | AAACI | ISHRS WORKSHOP

“Patients are always asking me which technique is the best. My answer is always the same: the best technique is the one that keeps your grafts alive for the longest time. The Choi pen, ATP storage, an implantation time of under 90 seconds – these aren’t marketing tactics. They are biology itself. Everything else is just a name.”

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What is the Comparison of Technical Quality Between Turkey, the UK and the US?

between 25 per cent and 35 per cent of the global hair transplant market is achieving this. This specialisation is not the result of low standards, but rather the result of a high-volume surgical culture that trains surgeons to handle a caseload that most British and US clinics could not achieve even in a decade. When volume is combined with high-quality infrastructure and accreditation, it leads to precision.

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What is the difference in the cost of hair transplant procedures in Turkey, the UK and the US?

The cost of hair transplants in Turkey is between 60 per cent and 75 per cent lower than in the UK and the US for equivalent techniques . The price difference, surgical labour costs , clinical overheads and is due to the exchange rate economy ; it is not due to differences in surgical quality or technical sophistication. Performed to the same clinical standard The 0.70 mm Choi-pen DHI procedure costs between 2,500 and 5,500 euros in Turkey , In the US, however, it costs between 10,000 and 18,000 USD .

A full breakdown of the costs for each technique is set out in detail, including what is and is not included in the all-inclusive packages. Page on hair transplant prices in Turkey.

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Which is the cheapest hair transplant technique?

FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) is the most affordable hair transplant technique. In Turkey, The cost of a FUT procedure involving 2,500 to 3,000 grafts ranges from 1,500 to 2,500 euros. The reason for the lower cost is that strip excision yields more grafts per surgical hour than individual FUE punch extraction; the economic benefit of this speed is reflected in the cost.

The disadvantage, however, is that along the donor area generally 15 to 25 cm long , is a permanent linear scar that can be seen in short hairstyles. FUE, It offers competitive prices for sessions involving fewer than 1,500 grafts . DHI is 15 to 25 per cent more expensive than standard FUE due to the cost of Choi pens and a slower implantation rate . Robotic DHI is the most expensive option.

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Which is the most expensive hair transplant technique?

Robotic DHI costs between 3,000 and 8,500 euros in Turkey, and in the United States It is the most expensive hair transplant technique, with prices ranging from 15,000 to 25,000 USD. This cost reflects the capital investment required for the robotic system, the longer procedure time needed for AI-assisted implantation, and the fact that implantation must be carried out exclusively by a surgeon. The Choi pen used in Picasso Robotic DHI is a specialised 0.70 mm instrument that cannot be replaced with standard pens.

At Dr Terziler Exclusive Clinic, the price of the Robotic DHI procedure includes Dr Terziler personally performing each implantation, a pre-operative hairline design consultation, and a graft storage service enhanced with ATP throughout the procedure. Implantation is not delegated to technicians.

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Which is the least painful hair transplant method?

Do you have? and Robotic DHI: the least painful hair transplant are the methods. FUT if the most painful It is a hair transplant technique.

All hair transplant techniques are carried out under local anaesthesia containing epinephrine. The epinephrine component reduces bleeding by constricting the blood vessels and prolongs the effects of the anaesthetic. Approximately 3 to 5 minutes after the injection, once local anaesthesia had taken effect, , patients They feel pressure and movement but do not experience pain. Most patients rate the procedure itself on a pain scale of 1 to 3 out of 10 assesses .

The most uncomfortable part of a hair transplant is the procedure itself himself No, it is an anaesthetic injection. The scalp has a dense network of nerves, and the administration of a local anaesthetic involves multiple needle insertions. This stage takes 3 to 5 minutes, and patients usually Rates it as 4 to 5 out of 10 . From this point onwards, the remainder of the session becomes manageable for the vast majority of patients.

DHI performed using the Choi pen, It causes slightly less discomfort in the recipient area compared to FUE because the pen creates the channel and implants the graft in a single movement, which reduces mechanical manipulation of the surrounding tissue. The difference is minor; patients do not choose DHI because it is less painful. They choose it for the graft survival rate and the precision of the hairline. The level of pain, It is not a clinically significant distinguishing factor between FUE and DHI .

compared with other techniques It is the surgical technique that causes the most discomfort after the operation. Linear incision and stitch tension, causing discomfort at a level of 4 to 6 out of 10 paves the way. Post-operative For 5 to 7 days, Following FUE or DHI Compared with the rate observed in 2 to 3 out of 10 patients within 24 to 48 hours.

★★★★★ 5/5

“I was really scared on my way there; I have a low pain threshold and I almost cancelled. The anaesthetic injections were uncomfortable for about four minutes. After that, I really didn’t feel a thing throughout the seven-hour DHI session. I watched two films and had lunch. If I had to rate the whole day, in terms of pain I’d say perhaps a 2 out of 10. The pain during the recovery process was around a 3 on the first day, then it subsided.”

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Which is less painful: DHI or FUE?

Under local anaesthesia, DHI and FUE are equivalent in terms of pain experience in 97 per cent of patients. Both procedures use the same anaesthetic protocol. Both extract tissue from the same donor area using the same FUE punch. The only significant difference lies in the recipient area: the Choi pen used in DHI eliminates the need for a pre-prepared channel, thereby reducing mechanical manipulation of the surrounding tissue by approximately Reduces it by 30 per cent. In practice, patients do not report any noticeable difference between FUE and DHI in terms of discomfort in the recipient area.

Following surgery, both techniques result in mild tightness in the donor area lasting between 24 and 48 hours, and It causes mild graft sensitivity lasting between 5 and 7 days. These symptoms are managed with standard painkillers as part of the post-operative protocol. In uncomplicated cases, neither technique requires opioid analgesia.

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Is FUE or FUT more painful?

FUT is significantly more painful after the operation than FUE. Both procedures are carried out under local anaesthetic and Following anaesthesia, pain intensity ranges from 1 to 3 out of 10. The difference becomes apparent once the anaesthetic has worn off.

In patients undergoing the FUE procedure, a sensation of tightness in the donor area, rated at 2 to 3 out of 10, is felt for 24 to 48 hours, after which the condition resolves. In patients who have undergone the FUT procedure, however, the discomfort caused by suture tension is rated at 4 to 6 out of 10 and lasts for 5 to 7 days. Having the stitches removed on days 10 to 14 adds a further dimension to the discomfort.

Patients who require scalp tightening due to the removal of a large section of scalp may experience a sensation of tightness intermittently for up to three weeks.

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Which hair transplant technique has the highest success rate?

DHI, performed using the Choi pen, accounts for % of standard hair transplant techniques It achieves the highest graft survival rate, ranging from 90 per cent to 97 per cent. The robotic DHI system achieves a success rate of up to 97 per cent under optimal conditions. The FUE and FUT methods, meanwhile, achieve a success rate of between 90 per cent and 95 per cent when performed by experienced practitioners.

These are ranges, not guarantees. The surgeon’s experience, the rate of extraction, the quality of the preservation solution and the duration of the session all influence the ultimate success rate within the range of each technique. A poorly performed DHI procedure may result in a success rate of less than 70 per cent. A FUE procedure performed skilfully by an expert surgeon can reach the upper end of the range. The technique sets the ceiling; the surgeon determines where within that range your results will fall.

The most important questions to ask a clinic are not which technique they use, but what the average time each graft spends outside the body is, and which storage solution they use between extraction and implantation. These two answers provide more information about the expected survival rate than any specific technique name.

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Which hair transplant technique offers the quickest recovery time?

DHI and Robotic DHI are the techniques that offer the fastest recovery time of all hair transplant techniques. The Choi pen creates smaller and more precise recipient channels, resulting in less scabbing, faster scab formation and earlier normalisation of the scalp surface. Most DHI patients return to desk-based work within 3 to 5 days . Initial redness subsides within 7 to 10 days for DHI and within 10 to 14 days for standard FUE gets lost in it.

FUT involves a significantly slower recovery process compared to other methods. Linear donor incision Stitch care for 10 to 14 days and requires the removal of stitches, and patients in the donor area They may feel tense for up to three weeks. FUT is not recommended for patients who are unable to set aside sufficient recovery time due to work or social commitments.

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Which hair transplant technique is best suited to your hair type?

Hair type , texture and cable specifications, It affects every stage of the hair transplant procedure; from the risk of graft loss to the implantation angle and the expected density per graft. The same technique does not yield the same results for all hair types. The sections below cover clinical recommendations for each profile.

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What Is the Best Hair Transplant Technique for Women?

DHI is the preferred hair transplant technique for women. The Choi technique allows for precise implantation without the need to completely shave the donor area. Women who wish to maintain their current hairstyles during the recovery process can opt for DHI, which involves targeted donor extraction from concealed areas. Both the FUE and FUT methods require a larger area to be shaved and this creates a more noticeable visual effect during the healing process and leads to less effective results.

The DHI method without shaving, It allows for the gentle addition of density to thinning areas without disrupting the surrounding natural hair; this is particularly important for women with diffuse hair thinning (Ludwig classification I–II), for whom maintaining existing density is just as important as adding new grafts.

Before selecting any technique for women experiencing active, widespread hair loss, a careful assessment of their suitability must be carried out. Performing a hair transplant on areas of ongoing active hair loss carries the risk that, although the transplanted grafts will be permanent, the surrounding natural hair will continue to thin, resulting in an uneven outcome. Dr Terziler carries out a trichoscopic assessment of areas of active hair loss before accepting any female candidate.

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What is the best hair transplant technique for Afro hair?

Manual FUE using a curved or motorised punch , In conjunction with DHI implantation , This is the recommended approach for Afro-type hair. Afro-type follicles have a curved shaft beneath the skin’s surface; the visible curves of the shaft are continuous with the curved follicle root. This curvature significantly increases the likelihood of the follicle being severed (cut) during rotation when using standard straight-punch FUE extraction.

An experienced surgeon uses a curved punch aligned with the subcutaneous angle of the follicle to make the incision reduces the rates to below 5 per cent . Inexperienced operators using a standard flat punch, With Afro-type hair, the breakage rate can reach over 15 per cent to 20 per cent ; this means that one in every five grafts is damaged before transplantation. Not every clinic in Istanbul specialises in this area. The question to ask is not which technique they offer, but whether they actually carry out that technique. Afro hair transplant , information on the number of hair grafts transplanted and which punch method was used.

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What is the best hair transplant technique for curly hair?

FUE performed using the appropriate punch , In conjunction with DHI implantation , this is the standard recommendation for patients with European or Mediterranean-type curly hair. The curvature of the hair shaft is less pronounced than in Afro-type hair, but nevertheless increases the risk of rupture compared with a standard flat follicle . An experienced surgeon takes the angle of curvature into account during extraction.

One of the advantages of curly hair is that visual density . Curly hair grafts provide greater visible coverage per follicle than straight hair, as the natural curl increases the visual surface area of each hair strand. This means that: Hair transplants for curly hair Patients with curly hair generally achieve their target density with fewer grafts than those with straight hair; this can reduce the number of sessions and shorten the recovery time.

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What is the best hair transplant technique for white or grey hair?

DHI is the preferred method for patients with white or grey hair. During FUE extraction, it is considerably more difficult to visualise non-pigmented follicles using a trichoscope; the hair shaft lacks the pigment contrast that helps the surgeon track the angle of the follicle in real time. This situation, in non-pigmented hair, increases the risk of hair loss beyond typical FUE rates.

DHI’s single-moving The implantation method is also advantageous for patients with white or grey hair who are experiencing age-related changes in skin laxity that affect the sensitivity of the recipient area. The Choi pen’s direct control over angle and depth minimises the effect of skin softness on the accuracy of placement.

White or grey hair presents challenges when styling the hairline : In cases of pigment-free hair, an extremely precise placement of the front edge of the single-hair unit is required to avoid a visible ‘add-on’ appearance. Dr Terziler’s hand-drawn hairline design is particularly important for these patients.

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What is the best hair transplant technique for people who are completely bald?

Complete baldness (Norwood Class 6–7) is usually Requires 5,000 grafts or more . This usually means two separate sessions, as the vascular capacity of the recipient scalp limits the survival rate of grafts exceeding approximately 4,500 in a single session. FUT maximises the yield to up to 5,000 grafts in the first session and It is generally recommended for stage 6–7 patients who require maximum volume and are not concerned about a linear scar.

FUE, carried out over two sessions, is an alternative for patients who wish to avoid a linear scar. 8 to 12 months The intervals between sessions allow the donor area to heal and the follicular cycle to run its course before the second harvest.

The most important point is this: In patients with complete baldness undergoing hair transplantation Assessment of the donor area is crucial. An inadequate donor area (characterised by low density at the back and sides, which is common in advanced Norwood patterns) may fail to provide sufficient grafts for complete coverage, regardless of the technique used. Establishing realistic density expectations before selecting any technique protects patients from disappointment following the full procedure. Dr Terziler will not accept cases where the donor area cannot meet the patient’s expectations regarding coverage.

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What Is the Best Hair Transplant Technique for Older People?

Age alone is not a contraindication for hair transplant surgery. Patients in their 60s and 70s, Provided that the relevant pre-operative assessments have been completed, these patients have successfully undergone FUE and DHI procedures with graft survival rates similar to those of younger patients. At Dr Terziler Exclusive Clinic, medical clearance for patients aged 60 and over ( Including an ECG, a full blood count and a cardiovascular assessment ) is required.

DHI, a smaller volume of anaesthetic (as it does not require a large tumour injection) and, due to the shorter implantation time, it reduces the physiological burden and is therefore generally preferred for elderly patients. Donor density naturally decreases with age, and elderly patients may require a smaller-scale session plan that takes into account the yield achievable over multiple potential sessions, rather than a single session with maximum extraction.

It is particularly important for elderly patients to continue treatment with minoxidil and finasteride, as androgenetic alopecia continues to progress even after a hair transplant. The transplanted hair follicles are permanent, but the surrounding natural hair is not.

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What is the best hair transplant technique for transgender people?

DHI is the most versatile technique for hair transplants carried out for the purpose of gender reassignment. DHI for transgender women (MTF), feminising the hairline , lowering the hairline , rounding out the temples and which characterises the female hairline helps to create a gentler forward curve . This procedure requires, more so than other hair restoration techniques, the precision of the Choi pen in creating single-hair units and the surgeon’s customised hairline mapping.

visual result It depends almost entirely on the quality of the hairline design , rather than the volume of the grafts implanted. A technically correct transplant performed on a poorly designed hairline will produce an unsatisfactory result that requires correction. Dr Terziler personally designs every MTF hairline according to facial geometry, forehead height, the pattern of hair loss in the temple region, and the patient’s specific aesthetic goals.

In cases where testosterone treatment has produced insufficient results, to increase beard density, fill in the sideburns and define facial features FUE donor hair extraction from the scalp can be used. Where precision is of the utmost importance beard line and DHI is the preferred method for the areas where the cheeks are to be contoured.

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What is the best hair transplant technique for facial and body hair?

Facial hair transplantation requires different technical approaches to scalp hair transplantation . The angle of the incision, Choi pen depth, graft unit composition and expected outcomes vary significantly depending on the anatomy. DHI performed using a 0.70 mm Choi pen is the preferred technique for all facial hair areas. The precision and angular control it provides cannot be achieved with forceps implantation.

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What Is the Best Hair Transplant Technique for Eyebrow Transplantation?

The DHI technique, performed using a 0.70 mm Choi pen, is the only technique that consistently achieves the implantation angles required for natural-looking eyebrow transplant results. Natural eyebrow hairs, relative to the skin’s surface It extends at an angle of 10 to 15 degrees ; this comes from the hair on the scalp (35 to 45 degrees) a much shallower angle. At these angles, the single-motion implantation technique using the Choi pen allows for precise control of depth and angle, which cannot be achieved with forceps-based FUE implantation.

Typical number of grafts Between 200 and 350 follicular units per eyebrow. Eyebrow hairs grow in layers and in different directions: the hairs in the top row are angled upwards, whilst those in the bottom row are angled downwards. To replicate this, the direction of each individual graft must be assessed separately. That is why Eyebrow transplant The results vary so greatly from one surgeon to another that, even if the technique is the same, its application requires anatomical knowledge and artistic skill.

An important note for patients: The scalp donor hair used for eyebrows grows at the same rate as the scalp, which is considerably faster than natural eyebrow hairs. Transplanted eyebrows require regular trimming. It takes between 8 and 12 months for the results to fully develop . Temporary shock loss of existing eyebrow hairs is possible in the months following the operation.

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What Is the Best Hair Transplant Technique for a Moustache?

DHI is the preferred technique for moustache transplants. Moustache hairs, extending downwards from the upper lip and slightly outwards It extends at angles of between 20 and 30 degrees . The placement of single-hair units at these angles requires the precision of the Choi pen. The typical number of grafts depends on the desired coverage area It ranges from 200 to 500 follicular units.

For hair donations Moustache transplant It is usually performed using hair taken from the occipital region. Beard hairs taken from the cheeks can also be used as a donor source, enabling the retrieval of hair follicles that are naturally thicker and more similar in texture to natural moustache hair. Dr Terziler selects the donor source based on the desired moustache thickness and the existing beard density. The results become visible within 6 to 9 months.

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What is the best hair transplant technique for a beard transplant?

The DHI method is the preferred choice for beard transplants in sensitive areas : cheek filler , clean-shaven line and where a natural-looking density requires individual graft placement sparsely populated areas . The FUE method, followed by forceps implantation, is also used in larger treatment areas where maximising coverage is more important than precision per graft. The typical number of grafts depends on the coverage target It ranges from 500 to 2,000 follicular units.

Beard hairs can serve two purposes . In patients where the density of scalp donor hair is insufficient for complete scalp reconstruction, harvesting grafts from the beard provides additional grafts; thicker beard hairs, when trimmed to standard lengths, blend in with areas of the scalp that have normal density without looking out of place.

Dr Terziler adjusts the depth settings of the Choi pen in accordance with the anatomy of the beard. The facial skin (particularly on the cheeks) is softer and more mobile than the scalp, which affects the calculation of the implantation depth. Beard transplant the results take 9 to 12 months to become apparent . Initial growth has an irregular and patchy appearance before reaching full density.

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What is the best hair transplant technique for achieving your ideal look?

The DHI technique, which uses single-hair grafts, is the only technique suitable for hairline restoration in the temple area. The transition from the sideburns to the temples requires a gradient of density, progressing from individually isolated hairs at the edge to full coverage of the scalp. Any block transplanting or irregular boundaries in this area are immediately noticeable and difficult to correct.

The typical number of grafts is between 100 and 250 follicular units for each recipient area. Implantation angles at the favora margin It is between 5 and 15 degrees (as shallow as the angles used in eyebrow transplants) and requires the same level of control over the direction of the grafts. For this reason, the FUE method using forceps implantation is not recommended for the hairline area. Favourite beard transplant results It appears 8 to 12 months later.

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Is post-operative care the same for all types of hair transplant techniques?

The first 72 hours are the same for all hair transplant techniques . Do not touch the grafts . Sleep at a 45-degree angle with your head elevated . Apply a saline spray to the graft site every 30 minutes . Avoid direct exposure to sunlight . Do not drink alcohol . Do not exercise . This protocol is universal and non-negotiable, regardless of whether the patient has undergone a hair transplant using the FUE, DHI or FUT method.

3. From that day onwards, the protocols differ slightly . Patients with FUT should clean their linear donor scar every day , neck stretching or You should avoid scalp tension and They should return between days 10 and 14 to have their stitches removed . FUE and DHI patients, on the other hand, use the special technique provided by the clinic to prevent the grafts from shifting, From the 3rd or 4th day onwards, you should start washing the baby’s hair gently with a pH-neutral baby shampoo.

Long-term care (From the 1st month to the 12th month) It is the same for all techniques: You should not wear a hat or tight headwear for two weeks , Sun protection should be applied to the scalp for three months and for patients with androgenetic alopecia prescribed medical treatments (finasteride, minoxidil or dutasteride) should be continued. The transplanted hair follicles are permanent. However, the natural hair surrounding it is not permanent and requires ongoing medical management.

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What Are the Alternatives to Hair Transplant Surgery?

A hair transplant is the only procedure that permanently restores hair to a bald area. The following alternatives address hair loss through different mechanisms: slowing down hair loss, increasing the density of remaining follicles, or providing a cosmetic improvement. None of these can replace hair transplant surgery for patients with areas of hair loss.

Finasteride, It is an FDA-approved DHT blocker and, according to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, slows or halts androgenetic hair loss in 80 to 90 per cent of male users. It does not promote hair regrowth in bald patches. It works by systematically reducing DHT levels and this also protects the sensitive follicles from shrinking. It requires continuous use; discontinuing finasteride usually It causes hair loss to resume within 6 to 12 months . It is not approved for use in women of childbearing age.

Minoxidil, It is an FDA-approved topical vasodilator available without a prescription. It prolongs the anagen (growth) phase of the hair follicle cycle. It shows clinically measurable results in 40 to 60 per cent of users. It is most effective for early-stage diffuse hair thinning and brings about a modest improvement in hair density in the crown area. As with finasteride, discontinuing its use reverses the benefits.

Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), It is FDA-approved for the treatment of hair loss. A meta-analysis published in the journal *Lasers in Surgery and Medicine* in 2014, It has shown that 51 per cent of patients treated experienced an improvement in hair density . LLLT is best used not as a stand-alone treatment for moderate to severe hair loss, but as an adjunct therapy alongside finasteride, minoxidil or post-hair-transplant recovery.

, imitating the look of a shaved head or a short beard It is a cosmetic tattooing technique. It does not result in actual hair growth and is not a hair transplant. SMP , where the donor area is unable to support a substantial hair transplant It is a genuinely viable option for patients with a Norwood 6–7 and for those who prefer a shaved look that requires no maintenance.

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) The treatment uses autologous growth factors derived from the patient’s own blood to stimulate follicular activity. The strongest evidence suggests that PRP, in addition to hair transplant surgery, , supports its use on the day of the procedure or in subsequent months. The evidence regarding PRP as a stand-alone treatment for significant hair loss is limited.

Exosome therapy, a new method using extracellular vesicles derived from mesenchymal stem cells It is a regenerative treatment method. Exosomes carry growth factors, mRNA and signalling proteins that stimulate follicular activity and reduce scalp inflammation. Clinical evidence is growing, but there are as yet no large-scale randomised controlled trials (RCTs) confirming its efficacy as a stand-alone treatment. Exosomes produce the most effective results when used in conjunction with microneedling or when administered intraoperatively during hair transplant sessions . At Dr Terziler Exclusive Clinic, exosome therapy is offered as part of a post-transplant recovery protocol designed to support graft survival and reduce the duration of shock.

Growth Factor Therapy, EGF (epidermal growth factor) , FGF (fibroblast growth factor) , IGF (insulin-like growth factor) and VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) A solution containing these ingredients is applied directly to the scalp via mesotherapy microinjections or topical application. Growth factors prolong the anagen phase and improve microcirculation in the scalp. The results are measurable in early- and mid-stage diffuse atrophy . Growth factor therapy does not reverse androgenetic hair loss in fully miniaturised follicles.

Hair and Nail Cocktail Treatment, This is a protocol for intravenous and topical micronutrient supplementation designed to treat hair loss caused by nutritional deficiencies . Biotin , zinc , iron , selenium , Vitamin D3 and amino acid complexes By delivering it directly into the bloodstream, it eliminates the variability in absorption associated with oral supplements. It is not effective in androgenetic alopecia . It results in a measurable increase in hair density in patients with nutrient-deficiency-related hair loss, which is more common than is generally recognised, particularly among women.

Hair Elixir, peptides (for example…) is a topical serum formulation that combines… Contents copper peptides and biomimetic peptides, plant stem cell extracts and growth factor analogues. Applied daily to the scalp, this product acts as a supportive aid following medical treatment or hair transplant procedures. The hair tonic does not address the hormonal mechanisms that trigger androgenetic alopecia . It is best positioned not as a stand-alone solution, but as part of a treatment regimen in combination with finasteride or minoxidil.

Tricho Test is not a treatment method, It is a trichogenomic diagnostic tool. DHT sensitivity , risk of androgenetic alopecia progressing and Genetic markers associated with individual response to finasteride and dutasteride treatment analyses the data. The result provides a personalised treatment plan recommendation. At Dr Terziler Exclusive Clinic, the Tricho Test is used as a pre-treatment assessment for patients where the appropriate medical protocol is unclear; it eliminates uncertainty in the decision-making process between finasteride and dutasteride, and identifies patients who are unlikely to respond to standard DHT-blocking treatment.

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What do patients at Dr Terziler Exclusive Clinic say about hair transplant techniques?

The following reviews are from verified patients. Each patient chose their own treatment method following an individual suitability assessment and was treated personally by Dr Servet Terziler.

★★★★★ 5/5

“For three months prior to my consultation, I compared the FUE and DHI hair transplant techniques. What convinced me was Dr Terziler’s explanation of the ISHRS’s stance on DHI; he was the only surgeon who, across four consultations, treated me as though he’d really done his research. With the DHI technique using 2,800 grafts, my hairline looks completely natural 14 months on. The 0.70 mm Choi pen specification meant nothing to me before the procedure. Now, when I look in the mirror, it all makes sense.”

Michael R. | United Kingdom

★★★★★ 5/5

“I’d received a quote of $18,000 for the ARTAS robotic FUE procedure in New York. Not only was Dr Terziler’s Picasso Robotic DHI technique a fraction of that price, but he also sketched out my hairline himself before a single graft had even been implanted. This artistic hairline design is what you really notice when the results become apparent in the ninth month. It’s the most advanced hair transplant technique I’ve come across, and it was the most honest conversation I’ve ever had about what I actually needed.”

David L. | United States of America

★★★★★ 5/5

“As a woman, I was afraid of having my hair shaved off. Dr Terziler performed a DHI hair transplant using the targeted extraction method, and nobody at work noticed I’d had the procedure. Nine months on, the density at my temples is exactly as I wanted it. The aftercare instructions were clear and straightforward, and the team kept in touch with me at every stage. I wish I’d had this done sooner.”

Anna M. | Canada

★★★★★ 5/5

“I have Afro-textured hair, and two clinics in Germany had told me that the FUE technique carried a high risk of hair loss for my hair type. Dr Terziler used a curved punch protocol, which he explained in detail before I booked my appointment. Eleven months after the DHI implantation of 2,200 grafts, the growth was exactly as predicted. He understood Afro hair types at a clinical level that clinics closer to my home did not possess.”

Thomas K. | Germany

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Why should you choose Dr Terziler Exclusive Clinic?

Each clinic lists the techniques it uses. What sets the results apart is the specifics of these techniques: the choice of punch, the diameter of the Choi pen, the graft storage protocol, the hairline design, and who performs the implantation. These are the variables that determine your outcome.

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Frequently Asked Questions

+ What is the best hair transplant technique in 2026?

DHI with Choi pen implantation is best suited for patients who prioritise hairline density and natural-looking results. Robotic DHI is best suited for patients seeking maximum precision and an artistically designed hairline. FUE is best suited for high-volume cases involving 3,000 grafts or more. There is no single ‘best’ technique universally; the right choice depends on your stage of hair loss, donor density, hair type and desired outcome.

+ Is DHI a separate hair transplant technique or an implantation tool?

DHI is not a separate technique, but an implantation tool. The ISHRS states that DHI is not a hair transplant method and should not be marketed as such. DHI refers to the Choi implantation pen, which simultaneously creates a micro-channel and places the graft. Before DHI implantation begins, donor hair is still harvested using the FUE or FUT method.

+ Which hair transplant technique causes the least pain?

All techniques are performed under local anaesthesia. Most patients rate the pain during the procedure as 1 to 3 out of 10 once the anaesthesia has taken effect. DHI is slightly less uncomfortable in the recipient area as it eliminates the need for the pre-prepared channel step involved with the Choi pen. In the post-operative period, FUT causes the most pain (a rating of 4–6 out of 10 for 5–7 days due to suture tension). Post-operative pain following FUE and DHI subsides within 24 to 48 hours.

+ Which hair transplant technique has the highest success rate?

DHI achieves the highest graft survival rate, ranging from 90 per cent to 97 per cent. Robotic DHI achieves a success rate of up to 97 per cent. FUE and FUT, on the other hand, achieve success rates of between 90 and 95 per cent. DHI’s higher rate is due to a shorter ischaemic time; the Choi pen implants the graft immediately after extraction, without any waiting time for channel creation.

+ What is Sapphire FUE, and is it better than standard FUE?

Sapphire FUE uses a sapphire crystal blade instead of surgical steel to create recipient channels. It creates a cleaner, V-shaped channel, which may reduce micro-inflammation and accelerate healing by 20 to 30 per cent. It does not improve graft survival rates compared to standard FUE. The ISHRS does not classify this as a separate technique. Sapphire FUE is not a universal improvement, but a justified upgrade for specific candidates.

+ What is Micro FUE, and is it better than standard FUE?

Micro FUE uses a smaller punch (0.6–0.8 mm) to minimise the formation of micro-scars in the donor area. It is best suited to patients who prefer very short hairstyles. As a smaller punch increases the risk of cutting, it is not suitable for thick or Afro-type follicular shafts. The punch size should be determined not only by the patient’s preference but also on the basis of a trichoscopic follicular assessment.

+ What is the best hair transplant technique for women?

As DHI does not require the donor area to be completely shaved, it is the most suitable method for women; this allows them to maintain their existing hairstyles during the recovery process. Furthermore, it provides a subtle increase in density without disrupting the surrounding natural hair. Women experiencing active, widespread hair loss should undergo a suitability assessment before any technique is selected.

+ Which is the cheapest hair transplant technique?

FUT is the most affordable technique in Turkey, with prices ranging from 1,500 to 2,500 euros for 2,500 to 3,000 grafts, as strip extraction is faster per graft than individual FUE punch extraction. This cost saving comes at the price of a permanent linear scar. DHI is 15 to 25 per cent more expensive than standard FUE. Robotic DHI is the most expensive option in Turkey, with prices ranging from 3,000 to 5,500 euros.

+ Which hair transplant technique offers the quickest recovery?

DHI and Robotic DHI offer the fastest recovery times. Most patients return to desk-based work within 3 to 5 days. The recovery time for FUE is 7 to 10 days. FUT, on the other hand, has the slowest recovery time, taking 14 to 21 days due to the need for suture care. DHI causes less scabbing than FUE because the Choi pen creates smaller and more precise channels.

+ Does it vary depending on the technique used?

The first 72 hours are the same for all techniques. From the third day onwards, FUT patients continue to keep the linear scar clean, avoid pulling on the scalp, and visit the clinic between the 10th and 14th days to have their stitches removed. FUE and DHI patients, on the other hand, begin gentle washing from the 3rd to 4th days. Long-term aftercare (months 1 to 12) is the same for all techniques.

+ What is the best technique for eyebrow transplantation?

The DHI technique, performed using a 0.70 mm Choi pen, is the only technique that consistently achieves the 10 to 15-degree implantation angles required for natural-looking eyebrow results. The typical number of grafts per eyebrow ranges from 200 to 350. The transplanted scalp hairs grow faster than natural eyebrow hairs and require annual trimming. It takes 8 to 12 months for the results to fully mature.

+ What is the best technique for a beard transplant?

The DHI method is preferred for delicate beard areas (cheek area, clean-shaven border). FUE, on the other hand, is suitable for larger areas requiring maximum density. The typical number of grafts ranges from 500 to 2,000. Beard hairs can also be used as a donor source in scalp restoration cases. Results become fully apparent within 9 to 12 months.

+ Which is less painful: DHI or FUE?

In terms of pain experience, DHI and FUE are equivalent for the vast majority of patients. Both use the same anaesthesia protocols. The only difference lies in the recipient area, where the Choi pen used in DHI reduces tissue manipulation by approximately 30 per cent. Patients generally do not report any noticeable difference in pain between the two techniques.

+ What should I ask the clinic before choosing a technique?

Ask five questions: Who performs the implantation – the surgeon or a technician? Which Choi pen diameter do you use? What is the average time the grafts spend outside the body? What does the graft preservation solution contain – does it contain ATP? Does the surgeon personally mark out the hairline? These answers provide more insight into the expected results than any technical terminology.

+ Why is Dr Terziler known as the ‘Picasso of Hair’?

Dr Servet Terziler is known as the ‘Picasso of Hair’ because he sketches each patient’s hairline by hand before every procedure; no templates, technicians or algorithms are used. The hairline is individually designed to suit each patient’s facial structure. Dr Terziler has also invented the Picasso Robotic DHI machine, the only robotic DHI system designed by an active hair transplant surgeon. His AAACI accreditation and ISHRS membership round off his clinical profile.

+ How do the new techniques compare with older hair transplant methods?

Hair transplants carried out in the 1970s and 1980s using 4 mm grafts created a visually distinct ‘baby hair’ appearance. With the modern FUE method, however, between one and four hair follicular units are transplanted at natural angles; when performed correctly, the results are imperceptible. Hair transplants are no longer performed using this method. If you have existing hair transplants, it is possible to repair them by removing the old grafts using the FUE method and re-implanting them using the DHI method.

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About Dr Terziler’s Clinic

It is situated in the city of Istanbul, Turkey. Dr Terziler Exclusive Clinic, AAACI-accredited clinic specialising in hair restoration, medical aesthetics, longevity, regenerative medicine and sexual health. The clinic offers FUE, DHI, Robotic DHI and hair transplant revision procedures for international patients, all carried out under medical supervision.