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What is a graft?
A graft is a natural group of one to four hairs that grow together from the scalp. A graft holds about 2 to 2.5 hairs on average, so "3,000 grafts" means roughly 6,000–7,500 hairs.
The Norwood scale
The Hamilton–Norwood scale describes male pattern hair loss in seven stages: stage 1 has no clear loss; at stage 7 only a horseshoe of hair remains at the sides and back.
General ranges by stage
| Stage | General range |
|---|---|
| Norwood 2 | 1,000–1,500 grafts |
| Norwood 3 | 1,500–2,200 grafts |
| Norwood 4 | 2,200–3,000 grafts |
| Norwood 5 | 3,000–3,800 grafts |
| Norwood 6 | 3,800–4,500 grafts |
| Norwood 7 | 4,500 and more, limited by the donor area |
The donor area sets the limit
Only a limited number of follicles can be taken from the donor area. Taking too many can thin it visibly. That is why, at advanced stages, plans give priority to the most visible front area.
See your own range
In the online hair analysis, choosing your stage shows a general range. The exact number is set after your donor area is examined.
Sources
This guide draws on the general sources and regulations below.
- Male pattern hair loss · American Academy of Dermatology
- A hair transplant can give you permanent, natural-looking results · American Academy of Dermatology
- Hair transplant · MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine
The information on this site is general and does not replace an examination or diagnosis.
