Compare Implanters

Choosing the Right Implanter: Hans Biomed Lion vs. Metapharm (KNU) vs. Incuram

Selecting the right hair implanter is one of the most consequential decisions a hair transplant surgeon can make. The implanter you choose directly affects graft handling, placement precision, workflow efficiency, and ultimately patient outcomes. In this comparison, we examine three leading implanters: Hans Biomed's Lion, Metapharm (KNU), and Incuram, across eight key clinical and practical criteria.

Disposability: Flexibility for Every Clinic

All three implanters offer a reusable body with replaceable needles, making them cost-effective for high-volume clinics. The Incuram goes one step further by also being available as a fully disposable unit, an important option for clinics with strict sterilization protocols or those operating in settings where reprocessing is not practical.

Disassembly & Needle Replacement

Speed of needle replacement matters in a busy surgical environment. Hans Biomed's Lion leads in this category with its quick needle replacement mechanism, minimizing downtime between grafts or during needle changes. Both Metapharm (KNU) and Incuram require a less quick needle replacement process, which may be a consideration in high-tempo procedures.

Bevel Orientation: Touch vs. Sight

Bevel orientation, knowing which way the needle bevel is facing during placement, is critical for consistent graft angulation. Hans Biomed's Lion uses a clip system that allows the surgeon to determine bevel orientation by touch, enabling eyes-free operation and a more fluid workflow. Metapharm (KNU) uses a line at the tip for visual orientation, while Incuram also relies on sight-based orientation. Surgeons who prefer tactile feedback will favor the Lion; those comfortable with visual cues will find the Metapharm or Incuram equally reliable.

Depth Control

All three implanters include depth control, allowing the surgeon to set consistent placement depth across grafts. This is an essential feature for achieving uniform results and reducing trauma to the recipient area.

Plunger Length Adjustment & Fixation

This is where Hans Biomed's Lion falls short compared to its competitors. Both Metapharm (KNU) and Incuram support plunger length adjustment and fixation, giving surgeons greater control over graft ejection depth and consistency. The Lion does not offer this feature, which may limit fine-tuning options for surgeons who rely on precise plunger calibration.

Needle Sizes: Range and Precision

The Metapharm (KNU) offers the widest needle size range, from 0.6 to 1.2 mm, making it adaptable to virtually any graft size. The Incuram covers 0.7 to 1.1 mm, and the Hans Biomed Lion ranges from 0.64 to 1.2 mm, a slightly unconventional starting size that may reflect its specific engineering approach. All three provide sufficient range for standard FUE procedures.

Needle Types: Sharp vs. Dull

The Metapharm (KNU) is the only implanter in this comparison to offer both sharp and dull needle options. Dull needles are preferred by some surgeons for placing grafts into pre-made recipient sites, as they reduce the risk of inadvertent tissue cutting. The Hans Biomed Lion and Incuram are limited to sharp needles only, which are better suited for simultaneous site creation and graft placement.

Tunnel Width & Wall Thickness

Again, the Metapharm (KNU) distinguishes itself by offering both standard and wide tunnel widths, as well as standard and extra thin wall thicknesses. This versatility allows surgeons to match the implanter precisely to graft size and recipient site anatomy. The Hans Biomed Lion and Incuram both offer standard tunnel width and wall thickness only, which is sufficient for most cases but less adaptable for complex or large-graft procedures.

Packaging

Hans Biomed's Lion, Metapharm (KNU), and Incuram are all packaged in sets of 5 implanters or 10 replacement needles, a practical format for clinic inventory management. Packaging details for the Incuram have not yet been specified.

Summary: Which Implanter Is Right for You?

• Choose Hans Biomed's Lion if speed of needle replacement and tactile bevel control are your top priorities.
• Choose Metapharm (KNU) if you need maximum clinical versatility — the widest needle range, both sharp and dull options, and variable tunnel and wall specifications.
• Choose Incuram if full disposability is important to your clinic, or if plunger length adjustment and fixation are essential to your technique.

Each implanter has a clear clinical profile. The best choice depends on your surgical style, clinic setup, and the specific demands of your patient cases.