What is the Norwood Scale?

The Norwood-Hamilton scale (commonly called the Norwood scale) is the standard classification system for male pattern hair loss. Developed by Dr. James Hamilton in the 1950s and revised by Dr. O'Tar Norwood in 1975, it categorises male androgenetic alopecia into seven stages based on the pattern and extent of hair loss.

At Hairmedico, Dr. Arslan Musbeh uses the Norwood scale as one component of a comprehensive assessment — alongside donor density, hair calibre, age and projected future loss — to determine transplant candidacy and technique selection.

The Seven Stages

Norwood I — No significant loss

Full hairline with no recession. Typically not a candidate for hair transplant. Monitoring recommended.

Norwood II — Slight temporal recession

Minor recession at the temples. Early hairline work may be considered. 800–1,500 grafts typically sufficient. DHI is commonly recommended for precision hairline work at this stage.

Norwood III — Moderate recession

More pronounced temporal recession forming a distinct M or V shape. 1,500–2,500 grafts. The most common stage at which patients first seek treatment. Also includes Stage IIIv — vertex (crown) thinning with minimal hairline recession.

Norwood IV — Significant recession + crown

Marked hairline recession combined with crown thinning. The bridge of hair between front and crown narrows. 2,500–3,500 grafts. Sapphire FUE or DHI depending on priority area.

Norwood V — Extensive loss

The bridge between front and crown is diminished or absent. Hair loss affects most of the top of the scalp. 3,500–5,000 grafts. Requires careful donor zone planning — Algorithmic FUE™ methodology is particularly important at this stage.

Norwood VI — Advanced loss

Front, top and crown areas extensively bald. Only a horseshoe band of hair remains at sides and back. 4,500–6,000 grafts. Donor supply becomes the limiting factor. Dr. Arslan assesses donor viability carefully before accepting these cases.

Norwood VII — Severe loss

Only a thin band of hair at the sides and back. Very limited donor supply. Transplant may provide partial restoration — the extent is determined by what the donor zone can safely provide without visible depletion.

Important: Norwood stage alone does not determine candidacy. Donor density, hair calibre, age and future loss trajectory are equally critical. A Norwood V patient with dense donor hair may be a better candidate than a Norwood III with sparse donor density. Send photographs for Dr. Arslan's personal assessment.

Approximate Graft Requirements by Stage

These are general ranges — individual requirements depend on head size, area of coverage, hair calibre and desired density:

  • Norwood II: 800–1,500 grafts
  • Norwood III: 1,500–2,500 grafts
  • Norwood IIIv/IV: 2,500–3,500 grafts
  • Norwood V: 3,500–5,000 grafts
  • Norwood VI: 4,500–6,000 grafts
  • Norwood VII: Assessed individually — donor-limited

Precise graft requirements are determined by Dr. Arslan after reviewing your photographs. View real results by Norwood stage, and explore the package options for your graft count range.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Norwood stage am I?
The most reliable way to determine your Norwood stage is to submit photographs of your front hairline, crown and sides to Dr. Arslan for a personal assessment. He will identify your stage and provide a graft estimate within 24 hours.
At what Norwood stage should I get a hair transplant?
There is no universal answer — it depends on whether your loss has stabilised, your age, and your donor density. Most patients have their first procedure at Norwood III–IV. Earlier intervention (Norwood II) may be appropriate if the recession is causing significant concern, but requires careful planning to avoid creating an unnatural result as loss continues.
Can Norwood VI or VII patients get a hair transplant?
Yes, but with realistic expectations about coverage. At Norwood VI–VII, donor supply is the limiting factor. Dr. Arslan assesses every case individually and only accepts patients where a satisfactory result is achievable without depleting the donor zone.