Male pattern hair loss is a very frequent disorder. It affects 50% of all men by the age of 50, with some persons losing hair as early as their late teens or early twenties. The extent of hair loss and its influence on one’s life varies greatly. As a result, numerous academics have proposed methods for classifying and measuring male pattern baldness. The most well-known classification is the Norwood scale. This article will explain how the Norwood scale identifies each stage of male pattern baldness and assesses hair loss. We will also discuss how many average hair grafts will be needed for each stage; and the effective hair loss treatments. Keep reading to get an expert suggestion of getting the best hair transplant surgery in Delhi.

What’s Norwood Scale?

Although the Norwood scale was first introduced in 1975, it is still the most popular scale for diagnosing male pattern hair loss globally. Because it’s clear and detailed. The Norwood scale, based on the 1951 Hamilton classification chart, was developed after studying 1,000 male patients’ hair loss. It currently defines, diagnoses, and predicts androgenetic alopecia in men.

This scale is also used by many hair restoration clinics to estimate the amount of hair grafts needed for hair transplant surgery. The Norwood scale divides male pattern hair loss into 7 stages, focusing on temple and crown hair loss.

Seven Stages of Hair Loss

Stage 1

Stage one is a typical adult hairline with little or no balding. No crown hair loss either. Temple shedding may occur, but hair loss is not noticeable at this time.

Average grafts for hair restoration: 0.

Stage 2

The hairline recedes slightly at Norwood 2 temples, but there is no noticeable thinning around the crown. Some consider this a mature hairline. One may also notice significantly greater hair loss on one side of the head. One may worry about this recession, yet the Norwood scale considers this hairline undisturbed by patterned hair loss.

Average grafts required: 500-1,000

Stage 3
The Norwood scale identifies baldness at this early stage. The hairline recedes considerably and forms an M-shaped pattern at the temples. Stage 3 vertex thinning may also occur around the crown.

Temple grafts average 1,000-1,500.
An average crown requires 500-1,000 grafts.

Stage 4

Norwood Stage 4 hair loss is more widespread in the temples and crown than stages 2 and 3. There’s still a lot of hair between the crown and hairline. Without crown hair loss, hairline recession will be significantly worse than in stage 3.

Average temple grafts: 1,200-2,500
Average crown grafts: 800-1,100

Stage 5

Hair loss on the crown and temples intensifies. As hair is removed, the hair dividing the two places thins. If no crown hair is lost, hairline recession is substantially worse than in Norwood stage 5 or stage 4.

Average temple grafts: 1,800-2,500
Average crown grafts: 1,000-1,500

Stage 6

This sees the crown-hairline band vanish. The top and front of the head have substantial hair loss. If there is no crown balding, the hairline recedes virtually to the back.

Average temple grafts: 1,800-2,500
Average crown grafts: 1,500-1,700

Stage 7
Norwood scale hair loss reaches its peak here. A band of hair usually covers the sides and back of the head. Without scanty hair, the head is virtually bald. Though fully bald hair transplants have been successful, it may be too late.

Temple average: 2,500+ grafts
Crown averages 1,700+ grafts.

What Treatments are Recommended?

Medical treatments for hair loss includes:

1. Over-the-counter Medications. Certain medications administered directly to the scalp can prevent hair from becoming thinner. It can also promote hair growth on the top of the scalp. It can be used in conjunction with other treatments.

2. Laser Devices. There are numerous brushes, combs, and other gadgets that emit laser light that are sold as hair loss remedies. These devices may promote hair growth, but they have not been clinically shown to do so.

3. Hair Transplant. Parts of the scalp with healthy hair growth are removed, and hair follicles are transplanted into balding areas.

4. Scalp Micropigmentation. Tiny tattoos can be placed on the scalp to provide the appearance of a shaven head.

Consult the Best Hair Transplant Clinic in Delhi

If one is concerned about their hair loss, regardless of Norwood stage, one should see a professional hair transplant surgeon. In many circumstances, the earlier one addresses the hair loss, the better - treating the condition early might reduce or even eliminate the need for hair transplants.

If one has advanced hair loss, one may still be eligible for a hair transplant. One need to get in contact with the best hair transplant clinic in Delhi. One can get a comprehensive hair loss examination at Chandra Hair Transplant Clinic to see if a hair transplant is suitable. And what technique will be apt.