Regardless of technique (FUE, DHI, Sapphire), procedure day generally follows a similar sequence and can take 6-9 hours total.

1. Hairline Design and Planning

The surgeon marks the new hairline based on the patient's facial features, existing hairline, and preferences. This step should be open to patient input and approval.

2. Shaving (if needed) and Local Anesthesia

The donor and/or recipient area is shaved (except with no-shave DHI), followed by local anesthesia.

3. Graft Extraction

Follicular units are individually extracted from the donor area and held in a special storage solution.

4. Channel Creation / Placement

Micro-channels are opened in the recipient area (FUE/Sapphire), or grafts are placed simultaneously with a DHI pen. Angle and direction are carefully matched to mimic natural growth.

5. End-of-Procedure Care

The area is gently cleaned, a bandage may be applied, initial aftercare instructions are given, and patients are typically discharged the same day.

Good to know: Brief breaks due to prolonged sitting are normal. Beyond mild discomfort, pain shouldn't be felt during the procedure — significant pain should be reported immediately.