The Norwood–Hamilton scale is the most widely used classification system for male pattern baldness. It describes seven stages of hair loss progression — from a barely receding hairline to near-total loss — and helps surgeons plan treatment appropriately.
The Seven Norwood Stages
Norwood 1 — No Significant Hair Loss
The hairline remains full and juvenile. No treatment is typically required at this stage, though some patients choose early medical management to prevent future loss.
Norwood 2 — Minor Recession
Slight recession at the temples forms a characteristic M-shape. Many men in their 20s and 30s sit at this stage. Hair transplant is possible but often not yet necessary.
Norwood 3 — Moderate Recession
Deeper recession at the temples. This is the earliest stage at which most surgeons consider transplant surgery appropriate. A relatively modest graft count (1,000–2,000) can restore a natural hairline.
Norwood 3 Vertex — Crown Thinning
A sub-stage where thinning begins at the crown whilst the frontal hairline recedes. Planning must account for potential future loss across both zones.
Norwood 4 — Significant Frontal and Crown Loss
Clear separation between the frontal hairline and the crown. The bridge of hair between the two is thinning. 2,000–3,000 grafts are typically required to address both areas.
Norwood 5 — Merging of Frontal and Crown
The bridge of hair separating front and crown has all but disappeared. Significant hair loss across the top of the scalp. 2,500–3,500 grafts may be needed.
Norwood 6 — Extensive Loss
Only a horseshoe band of hair remains at the sides and back. The top of the scalp is largely bald. Multi-session procedures or supplementary donor sources may be required.
Norwood 7 — Most Advanced Stage
Only a narrow band of hair remains at the very back and sides. Donor supply is limited relative to the area that needs coverage. Realistic expectations and careful planning are essential.
Why Your Stage Matters
Knowing your Norwood stage helps a surgeon estimate the number of grafts you need, assess whether your donor supply is adequate, and predict your likely future hair loss. A surgeon who transplants without accounting for future progression risks producing an unnatural result as surrounding hair continues to thin.
Getting an Accurate Assessment
Photographs and self-assessment can give a rough idea, but an accurate Norwood classification requires examination under proper lighting and magnification. Only a trained surgeon can assess donor density, miniaturisation, and scalp laxity — all of which influence treatment planning.
Get a free photo assessment to find your Norwood stage →
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