Typical ranges by stage
| Stage | What it looks like | Typical grafts |
|---|---|---|
| Norwood 2 | Slight recession at the temples | 800–1,500 |
| Norwood 3 | Deeper recession at the temples and hairline | 1,500–2,500 |
| Norwood 3 vertex | Receding hairline plus thinning at the crown | 2,000–3,000 |
| Norwood 4 | Hairline loss and a bald spot at the crown | 2,500–3,500 |
| Norwood 5 | The band between front and crown is thinning | 3,000–4,500 |
| Norwood 6 | Front and crown joined into one bald area | 4,000–5,500 |
| Norwood 7 | Only a band of hair remains at the back and sides | 5,000+ (donor-limited) |
Try the graft estimator to send your stage straight to the team.
What changes the number
- Density goals: a dense hairline needs more grafts than light coverage over a large area.
- Hair character: thick, curly or wavy hair, or hair close to your skin tone, looks fuller with fewer grafts.
- Donor density: how many follicles you have per square centimetre at the back and sides.
- Age and progression: younger patients may need a plan that leaves room for future loss.
Your donor area sets the limit
Donor hair is finite. Taking too many grafts at once, or over several procedures, can leave the back of the head visibly thin. A careful plan prioritises the areas that frame your face, usually the hairline and front, and keeps grafts in reserve where possible.
Common questions
Is 5,000 grafts in one session possible?
It can be, for people with a strong donor area, but large numbers are not right for everyone. The safe number depends on your donor density and the area needed.
How many hairs are in 3,000 grafts?
Roughly 6,000–7,000 hairs, since a graft holds about two hairs on average. It varies from person to person.
This page is general information, not medical advice. Suitability, risks, recovery and results vary from person to person and are discussed during your consultation. Last updated: