DHT Direct Hair Transplant
The implanter-pen technique — extract and implant in one continuous step. Higher density placement for advanced cases. Performed personally by Dr. Prashant Raktade, Maxillofacial Surgeon.
Quick answer
- What: A variant of FUE using a Choi-style implanter pen — extracts and implants in one continuous step rather than the traditional slit-then-implant two-step.
- Density: 60–80 grafts/cm² achievable (slightly higher than standard FUE).
- Cost: ₹40–₹55 per graft. A typical 3,000-graft DHT = ₹1.20–₹1.65 lakh.
- Best for: Norwood 5+ cases, patients prioritising maximum density, second-session top-ups.
- Recovery: Same as FUE — 7–10 days for office return, 8–12 months for final result.
What is DHT (Direct Hair Transplant)?
Standard FUE is a two-step process: slits are made first, then grafts are implanted with forceps. DHT collapses these into one step. The result is faster placement, better hydration of grafts (less time outside the body), and the ability to pack grafts more tightly without overlap.
DHT vs FUE — when to choose which
| Factor | FUE | DHT (implanter pen) |
|---|---|---|
| Density achievable | 50–70 grafts/cm² | 60–80 grafts/cm² |
| Graft handling time | Longer (separate slits) | Shorter (one step) |
| Surgeon control of angle | Excellent | Excellent (pen controls depth + angle) |
| Best for hairline (1–2 hair grafts) | Excellent | Excellent |
| Best for crown (3–4 hair grafts) | Good | Excellent |
| Procedure time | 6–10 hours | 6–9 hours |
| Cost (per graft) | ₹35–₹50 | ₹40–₹55 |
| Final result timing | 8–12 months | 8–12 months |
At Curls n Crowns, we offer both. Most Norwood 2–4 patients are best served by standard FUE. For Norwood 5+ or patients prioritising maximum density (e.g., professionals on camera), DHT is often the better choice. The decision is made during consultation based on donor density, graft requirement, and recipient zone characteristics.
How DHT is performed
- Hairline design + donor prep. Same as FUE.
- Local anaesthesia. Numbing of donor and recipient zones.
- Donor extraction. 0.7–0.9 mm FUE punch — same as standard FUE.
- Graft loading. Each follicular unit is loaded into an implanter pen needle (multiple sizes — 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9 mm — to match graft thickness).
- Direct implantation. Pen tip pierces the recipient skin at the predetermined angle and depth, depositing the graft in one motion. Repeated 2,000–4,500 times per session.
- Post-op. Same as FUE — photos, kit, instructions, home same day.
Why density matters more than graft count
Patients often ask “how many grafts do I need?” The better question is “what density will I get?” A 3,000-graft FUE at 50/cm² covers 60 cm² of bald area. The same 3,000 grafts at 70/cm² covers 43 cm² — but with thicker, more natural-looking density. DHT lets us reach the higher density on the second number, which is why it’s preferred for visible zones like the hairline and crown.
DHT cost at Curls n Crowns
| Norwood stage | Typical grafts | DHT cost (₹40–55/graft) |
|---|---|---|
| Norwood 3 | 2,000–2,800 | ₹80,000 – ₹1,54,000 |
| Norwood 4 | 2,800–3,500 | ₹1,12,000 – ₹1,92,500 |
| Norwood 5 | 3,500–4,500 | ₹1,40,000 – ₹2,47,500 |
| Norwood 6+ | 4,500–5,500 | ₹1,80,000 – ₹3,02,500 |
Need maximum density? Book a DHT consultation
Dr. Prashant will assess your donor density and recommend FUE or DHT based on your case anatomy.
Frequently asked questions
- Is DHT better than FUE?
- Not strictly better — different. DHT achieves slightly higher density (60–80 vs 50–70 grafts/cm²) and is faster per graft. FUE gives the surgeon more control over slit creation and is generally less expensive. The right choice depends on your donor density, target zone, and density goals.
- Is DHT more painful than FUE?
- No. Both procedures use the same local anaesthesia protocol. After numbing, both are painless.
- Do you need more grafts for DHT?
- No. The graft requirement is determined by Norwood stage and target zone, not the technique. DHT just packs the same grafts more densely.
- Is DHT new technology?
- DHT (Choi implanter) has been used in Korea since the early 2000s and is well-established globally. It’s not experimental.
- Can I switch from FUE to DHT mid-procedure?
- We finalise the technique during consultation, but Dr. Raktade has the equipment and skill to use either or both during a session if needed.
- Why does DHT cost more?
- Implanter pen needles are single-use disposables, and the technique requires more specialised training. The premium is ₹5–₹10 per graft over standard FUE.
- What is the recovery time for DHT?
- Identical to FUE: 7–10 days for office return, 14 days for workouts (no swimming), final result at 8–12 months.
- Can DHT be combined with PRP?
- Yes. Many of our patients add PRP or GFC sessions at month 1, 3, and 6 to accelerate the new growth phase. Discuss during consultation.
- Is DHT safe for diabetics?
- Yes, when properly screened. Pre-op HbA1c below 7.5 and stable BP are required. Dr. Raktade reviews every diabetic case personally before surgery.
Related reading
- Hair Transplant in Aurangabad — money page
- FUE Hair Transplant
- FUE vs DHT — full comparison
- Beard transplant
- PRP & GFC hair therapy
- Norwood scale explained
- About Dr. Prashant Raktade
This article was written and medically reviewed by Dr. Prashant Raktade, BDS, MDS (Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery), Founder of Curls n Crowns Aesthetic Dental & Hair Transplant. Last reviewed 9 May 2026. For appointment, WhatsApp +91 96048 81999.