Classifying Hair Loss – What Is My Norwood Class?
For hair loss or male pattern baldness, to “grade” that starting (or reference) point, we use the Norwood system of classification. Classifying Hair Loss – What Is My Norwood Class?
The same classification system can be used to track the progression of hair loss. Understanding the current extent of loss as well as the pattern to which the balding is likely to follow is essential when looking at treatment options. Importantly, it can be used by doctors to document a foundation and then monitor and evaluate treatment outcomes.
We explain each class in the Norwood classification system below. To get a correct diagnosis for your hair loss, it is imperative to see a hair restoration expert. Only then will you have the right information to decide on your path for successful hair loss treatment.
Alopecia classification is related to the aesthetic data of the person at the specific time his/her problem is examined, and not to the future evolution of the hair loss, which has to be clinically tested from an experienced doctor.
This procedure is called “prognosis” and is included in the diagnosis of Alopecia.
NORWOOD CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM
According to the location and severity of male pattern baldness, you can be classified in 1 of 7 stages.
Norwood Scale of Male Pattern Baldness:
- Type I. Minimal hair loss.
- Type II. Insignificant hair loss at the temples.
- Type III. The first stage that requires treatment.
- Type III vertex. Receding hairline and thinning hair on the vertex.
- Type IV. Bigger pattern on the vertex and hairline.
- Type V. Patterns at both sites are bigger but a thin division line is still present.
- Type VI. The bridge is gone but several strands of short fine hair may remain.
- Type VII. The most severe form of hair loss. Little hair on the front or top of the head.
The rate at which men lose hair varies dramatically from individual to individual. Careful maintenance of the donor area in the early stages of balding will ensure maximum number of donor follicles in the event of hair transplant.
NEXT STEPS
Hair loss can be treated at any stage from Class 3. Male pattern baldness can start as early as your twenties and can be successfully treated with a variety of options including growth factor therapy and Direct Hair Implantation. DHI Medical Group have over 47 years’ experience and are the hair restoration experts in Panama
Classifying Hair Loss – Find out here
