What is Sapphire Hair Transplant?

Sapphire hair transplant, or Sapphire FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction), is an advanced evolution of the traditional FUE method. It is distinguished by the use of precision sapphire blades to make the necessary incisions in the scalp during the channel opening phase. These blades are equipped with superfine needles that allow for very precise and minimally invasive incisions, with a diameter ranging between 0.3 mm and 0.5 mm.

Unlike conventional FUE, which uses stainless steel blades, sapphire blades maintain their sharpness for a longer time, contributing to greater precision and less damage to the surrounding tissues. This results in a less traumatic process and faster recovery.

What is DHI Hair Transplant?

The DHI (Direct Hair Implantation) hair transplant is another advanced FUE method that is based on the direct implantation of hair grafts into the recipient area without the need for additional incisions to open channels. It uses a specialized device known as the Choi pen, which allows for loading the graft and performing the implantation simultaneously.

This method is known for its precision and the possibility of keeping the hair long in the recipient area during the procedure. It is especially useful for cases requiring high precision in densification or for patients who prefer a transplant without shaving.

Comparison between Sapphire FUE and Traditional FUE

Although both methods are based on the FUE technique, the incorporation of sapphire blades in Sapphire FUE offers several advantages over traditional FUE:

High Density and Natural Appearance:

• Sapphire FUE: The sapphire blades, which are finer and more precise than stainless steel blades, allow for creating channels closer together. This translates into higher density and a more natural appearance in the transplanted hair.
• Traditional FUE: Stainless steel blades may be less precise, leading to lower density and a less natural appearance.

Less Tissue Damage and Faster Recovery:

• Sapphire FUE: Sapphire blades maintain their sharpness longer, reducing the risk of tissue damage and scab formation. This contributes to a faster recovery, generally between 7 to 10 days.
• Traditional FUE: Stainless steel blades can become dull over time, increasing the risk of damage and complicating recovery, which can last between 10 to 15 days.

Lower Risk of Postoperative Complications:

• Sapphire FUE: The antimicrobial and antibacterial properties of sapphire reduce the risk of infections and postoperative complications.
• Traditional FUE: Stainless steel blades do not offer the same antimicrobial properties, which can increase the risk of complications.

Comparison between DHI and Sapphire FUE

• Sapphire FUE: Uses sapphire blades to create precise channels before graft implantation. It is ideal for creating uniform and natural density and is generally faster in terms of recovery compared to traditional FUE.
• DHI: Uses the Choi pen to open channels and insert grafts simultaneously, eliminating the need to create channels separately. It is particularly suitable for patients who prefer to keep their hair long and for cases requiring high precision.

Considerations for Choosing a Method

1. Desired Density: If high density and a natural look are desired, both Sapphire FUE and DHI offer advantages. Sapphire FUE is excellent for densifying areas with a natural appearance, while DHI is ideal for cases requiring extreme precision.
2. Recovery: Sapphire FUE generally offers faster recovery than traditional FUE, while DHI may allow for faster recovery with less need to shave the recipient area.
3. Number of Grafts: DHI is more labor-intensive and may not be ideal for procedures requiring more than 2500 grafts due to its intensive nature.

Conclusion

Sapphire hair transplant and DHI represent significant advancements in hair restoration, each with its own advantages. The