What method of hair transplant is the least damaging to tissue?

Question

I had a hair transplant in 2015 (3400 FUE) and have mild numbness across top of head (recipient area). I would like to get another HT but want to know which method is least damaging to tissues in recipient area. Some clinics say DHI and others say Sapphire. Can anyone clarify?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

In general, the least damaging approach to the recipient area is FUE performed with very precise incision techniques, such as sapphire blades. Sapphire blades create cleaner, more controlled openings in the scalp, which can reduce tissue trauma and support faster healing.

DHI can also be gentle, but it involves more handling of the grafts and longer time outside the body, which may stress the tissue if not done carefully. Importantly, the surgeon’s experience and technique matter more than the specific tool used.

Mild numbness after a prior transplant is uncommon but can happen and is usually related to temporary nerve irritation. To minimize risk with another procedure, I recommend lower density placement, smaller sessions, and meticulous technique rather than aggressive packing. A careful, individualized plan is key to protecting the scalp tissue and nerves.

Ilhan Serdaroglu, MD · Answer

In fact, damage to the recipient area may depend more on the density of implantation than on the technique itself. Whether follicles are implanted using the DHU technique or channels are opened with a sapphire tip, it is normal for them to cause some damage: therefore, the skin's nerve network may be slightly damaged, and it is natural to experience numbness for a few months. However, if an attempt is made to implant too many follicles per square centimeter, this damage can increase and cause permanent numbness.

What method of hair transplant is the least damaging to tissue?

Answers (2)

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