More than 80% of men experience some degree of male pattern baldness or alopecia. A system has been developed for classifying the pattern. Based upon your age and pattern of hair loss, a treatment plan can be established. During your consultation we review your family history, and classification to determine if you are an appropriate candidate for follicular unit grafting (micro hair restoration). Even patients with advanced alopecia can benefit from follicular unit grafting in combination with other treatments.
Most patients have a pattern of hair loss resembling one of the seven groups described by the Norwood system. Although helpful, it is by no means comprehensive. An examination of the scalp is a necessary part of the hair restoration process. During this consultation we determine classification, density and possible number of follicular units available for your hair restoration session.
Hair Loss Classifications
Early recession in both temporal regions may be seen. Hair loss remains minimal along the central anterior hairline. This type may look "normal" on a 42-year-old, but greatly distresses a 22-year-old.
The temporal recessions extend more deeply. Some recession is also seen in the front hairline. Patients in Class 3 are typically in their 20's, 30's, or 40's and find dramatic improvement with as few as 1000 grafts.
The temporal recession extends very deeply and the frontal hairline is thinning and not nearly as wide. The frontal hairline begins to recede also from the crown of the head moving forward. This shows three zones of alopecia moving towards each other.
The three zones of alopecia have almost joined resulting in
- -a deep temporal recession
- -an enlarging bald crow
- -and a small "island" or tuft on the front of the crown
This classification is represented by complete or nearly complete zones of alopecia in the front, central and back area of the crown. A horseshoe-shaped zone of hair persists in the back on the head (occipital) and sides (parietal) of the head. The front hairline has receded toward the back of the head.
A thin rim of hair encircles the scalp. Many of these patients mistakenly believe that they are not candidates for treatment. In fact, follicular unit grafting (micro hair restoration) is an option.