Delhi District Commission Holds DHI Asian Roots Liable For Conducting Hair Transplant Procedures Without Necessary License And Failure To Deliver Satisfactory Results

Brief facts:

The complainant approached DHI Asian Roots ('Skin clinic'), a unit of SPA Yoga Pvt. Ltd. for a hair transplant in September 2012. The doctors at the clinic gave an assurance that the transplant will give him a natural look through the grafting of hair for which an amount of Rs. 2,25,000 would be charged. Based on the assurance given, the complainant got admitted on 26.09.2011 and deposited an advance amount of Rs. 1,00,000. As per the clinic's policy, the full amount was to be paid in advance. However, the doctors started with the procedure on the assurance given by the complainant that he will pay the balance amount shortly.

A scalp analysis and hairline design were completed and the implant was performed as per the request of the complainant. The first session was successfully completed with implantation of 1621 hairs which was also approved by the complainant. On being satisfied, the complainant returned for a second session on 03.12.2012 for a different scalp area. A fresh analysis was conducted and the procedure was performed by a certified M.D dermatologist.

An amount of Rs. 2,76,000 was paid by the complainant during which 2,022 hairs were implanted. Since the desired results were not achieved, the clinic offered a third corrective session free of charge. Post-surgery, feedback and guarantee forms were signed by the complainant. Despite being informed by the clinic that the results could take up to 18 months, the complainant started pressurising the doctors. On failure to get any satisfactory results, a complaint was then filed before the Delhi district commission praying for appropriate compensation.

Submissions of the complainant:

The complainant submitted that the skin clinic has failed to perform its duty towards the consumers and such acts amounted to deficiency in service and unfair trade practice.It was submitted that the brochure of the clinic guaranteed full hair growth or replacement in consultation with expert doctors. Further allegations of employment of unqualified staff and operation without necessary licenses were also made by the complainant. It was stated that a sum of Rs. 5,01,000/- has been paid by the complainant despite which there is no difference in the hair problems.

Submissions of the skin clinic:

The clinic submitted that the complainant was duly informed of all the pros and cons of the procedures for hair transplant and it was also made clear that the individual results may vary. It was further submitted that all procedures were conducted in a professional manner and were even carried out even beyond the medically recommended zones on complainant's request.

The skin clinic argued that the dissatisfaction of the complainant stems from impatience and disregard for medical advice and therefore prayed for dismissal of the complaint.

Observations of the commission:

The bench observed that the complainant did not observe even 1% difference in his hair problems despite three sittings and the skin clinic has failed to explain the reasons for the same. It was further observed that the skin clinic has failed to produce any authorization or license to perform modern scientific hair implantation procedures and also lacked government approval to engage doctors.

It was held that the procedure carried out without requisite licenses and specialized expertise amounted to unfair trade practice motivated solely by financial gain. The commission further held the clinic liable for negligence and deficiency in service in not providing proper treatment.

The bench also emphasized on the issue of medical practices in India. It observed that medical procedures must be performed by qualified licensed professionals. Clinics must be properly registered and should adhere to strictly established medical standards. It was further observed that patients must be fully informed about the procedures including its risks, limitations and expected outcomes.

Hence, the complaint was allowed with following reliefs:

1. Refund of Rs. 5,01,000 to the complainant.
2. Rs. 1,00,000 as compensation for mental harassment.
3. Rs. 30,000 as litigation costs.

Case Title: Vivek Kumar vs DHI Asian Roots

Case Number: Case No. CC 1090/2013 (New Delhi)

Date of decision: 22.05.2025

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