The Norwood scale, also known as the Hamilton-Norwood scale is a classification system that uses a 1 to 7 scale, to help doctors measure the extent of male pattern baldness. It was first introduced by Dr. James Hamilton in 1951, after observing the male-pattern baldness signs in over 300 men. However, it was updated later by O’Tar T. Norwood in the 1970s, and it’s now referred to as the Norwood Scale.
Most cosmetic clinics are now using this scale to diagnose the extent of baldness, discuss treatment options, and measure the effectiveness of treatment. To help you understand your case better, we are going to discuss Norwood Scale 4, which can be characterized by an obvious hair loss in the front of the temples and the crown area of the scalp. Men who are on Norwood scale 4 usually have a small band of hair across their scalp, this line would separate the two thinning hair areas.
How does Norwood scale 4 look like?
You need to know that Norwood 4 involves further frontal hair loss, in addition to enlarging the crown balding area. As we have mentioned above; the two balding areas will be separated with a line or a bridge of hair.
As long as you have some hair; you can use some medication to increase hair thickness and health. Doctors usually recommend using Rogaine alone or with Propecia, also known as Finasteride.
Norwood scale 4 is considered a clear sign of baldness, however, there is no need to worry since it is not too late to try a hair transplant that will reverse the aging effects on your hair density. A hair transplant surgery takes many factors under consideration such as future hair loss, which can be determinate by examine your hair quality and discuss your family hair loss history. Keep in mind that frontal forelock and crown areas can be designed in a way that satisfies your desires and enhances your look.
However, the amount of remaining hair is a very important factor that determines whether your crown and forehead hair transplant will be a huge success or not. There could not be enough hair to be used for increasing density and solving your baldness problem; that is why, we encourage you to act very quickly at this point, in order to get better results both for you and your hair.
Unlike hair transplant, applying certain medications such as finasteride and minoxidil can delay your hair loss, but it won’t stop it since your hair will resume falling after you stop the medications.
Can Norwood scale 4 get a hair transplant?
Yes, there are many treatment options to choose from if you are on Norwood scale 4, and of course, a hair transplant is between these options. Many doctors believe that Norwood scale 4 is very manageable and can be easily treated with a hair transplant. This procedure is designed to enhance your appearance and regain your self-esteem. Especially, since balding may create psychological, sociological problems in addition to rising aesthetic concerns among men.
As you know, Norwood or Hamilton-Norwood scale can help doctors identify hair loss and balding stages and prepare treatment plans that take your age, family history, and preferences under consideration. Keep in mind that hair transplant is now considered the most effective treatment for male pattern balding, thousands of men and women undergo a hair transplant surgery every year, especially since it is one of the safest cosmetic procedures, that has permeant and successful results for most cases. Consult your doctor to get more information about the best treatment for you and your hair type.
How many grafts are needed for Norwood scale 4?
There is no right answer for this question, especially since the exact number of needed grafts for hair transplant procedure to the patient who is on Norwood 4 is determined by the doctor after he exam your hair loss and hair quality. However, we know that most patients will need about 2200 to 3400 grafts for their frontal area and another 3400 to 3800 grafts for their crown area of the scalp. Be sure to contact your doctor to know the right number of needed grafts for your case.
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