The Norwood scale is the standard classification for male pattern hair loss. Use it to identify your stage, understand your graft requirements, and decide on the right treatment approach.
Hair present
Bald / thinning zone
↑ Top of diagram = front hairline
‣ Centre = crown / vertex
↓ Bottom = back / donor area (DHT-resistant)
Norwood 1
~500–1,000 grafts • From £2,500
Monitor
Minimal or no recession. Hairline intact. Usually no procedure needed — a good time to discuss preventative medication.
Norwood 2
~1,000–1,500 grafts • From £3,000
Start medication
Early temple recession. Start finasteride and/or minoxidil now to slow further progression. FUE possible but often deferred.
Norwood 3
~1,500–2,500 grafts • From £3,500
FUE candidate
Defined M-shaped recession. First stage typically suitable for hairline FUE. Natural results are reliably achievable.
Norwood 3V
~2,000–3,000 grafts • From £4,000
FUE candidate
Temple recession as in NW3 plus early crown thinning. Both can often be treated in a single procedure.
Norwood 4
~2,500–3,500 grafts • From £4,500
Strong candidate
Significant frontal and crown loss with a bridge of hair between them. Excellent results achievable with adequate donor supply.
Norwood 5
~3,500–4,500 grafts • From £5,500
Good candidate
Large bald area. Bridge of hair is thinning. Careful graft planning — may benefit from staged procedures.
Norwood 6
~4,000–6,500 grafts • From £6,000
Advanced planning
Frontal and crown zones have merged into a horseshoe pattern. Multiple sessions or supplementary donor sources may be required.
Norwood 7
~5,000–8,000 grafts • Consultation
Case by case
Most extensive pattern — thin band of hair at sides and back only. Surgical candidacy depends on individual donor density.
Not sure of your stage?
Take the 60-second hair loss quiz
Answer 4 questions and get a personalised Norwood stage assessment, estimated graft count, and indicative price — instantly.