Male pattern baldness affects many men in Turkey across different age groups. It refers to specific hair loss patterns that can be classified using several scales. Norwood scale measures the extent of hair loss by dividing male pattern baldness on a scale of 1 to 7. This classification system in Istanbul provides doctors with an easy-to-reference tool for diagnosing the severity of the condition and determining the best treatment options for each individual. The Norwood scale also includes images that show different stages of balding, which can be helpful for patients to understand the progression of their hair loss.

Want to know more about the different stages of hair fall and the particular uses of having a Norwood hair scale as a reference point? Read on to learn more about how to treat your hair health in Turkey and how to keep everything on track.

What are the uses of the Norwood Scale in Istanbul?

Although doctors in Turkey use several other classification scales, the Norwood hair scale is the most commonly used when discussing male pattern baldness. This is because the scale provides a reference point for diagnosis, treatment options, and measuring the effectiveness of treatment. Patients need to understand the stage of their balding, as this can impact the type of treatment their doctor recommends in Istanbul. With the help of the Norwood hair scale in Turkey, doctors can provide their patients with personalized treatment plans.

Is Norwood 3 too late? 

Norwood 3 represents the first stage where significant balding becomes noticeable, particularly at the temples and frontal areas. While it is more advanced than stages 1 and 2, it is not too late for effective treatment. Many men with Norwood 3 can benefit from medications such as finasteride and minoxidil to slow further hair loss and potentially improve hair density. Additionally, hair transplant surgery can be considered to restore hair in the affected areas. Early intervention at this stage can lead to better outcomes and prevent progression to more advanced stages.

What are the different stages and treatments of hair loss in Turkey?

Hair loss is a gradual process, and the point at which it's being treated will define how your body reacts and recuperates from the hairline loss. In this blog section, we go over different stages of hair fall and how you can plan against it in Istanbul.

Stage 1 and 2

Stage 1 of the Norwood scale, known as Norwood Type 1 hair loss, is a natural process for most men. This stage is about a transition from a teenage to an adult male hairline. Doctors in Istanbul would closely monitor any potential hair loss progression. It is worth noting that many men have this pattern before experiencing any hair loss as they age, and it's normal during their teenage and 20s. Norwood 2 hairline is characterized by a slight deepening of the temples and recession of the hairline from the brow crease, indicating a progression toward an adult hairline. However, hair transplantation is not recommended at this stage as it may damage healthy hair, and filling in the temples can have disastrous consequences if hair loss progresses to stage 4 or beyond in Turkey. It is never recommended to undergo transplantation at Norwood stage 2. Although Norwood Type 2 hair loss is mild, it is visible, with a slight recession of the hairline at the temples and a backward-sloping angle near the sideburns. The mature hairline may have a very visible V or M shape outline when viewed from the top profile.

Stage 3 and 4

In stage 3 of male pattern baldness, significant hair loss becomes noticeable. Men with Norwood Type 3 hair loss have visible balding at the temples and frontal area of the scalp, with hairlines falling into shapes. The recessed areas may be completely bare or have sparse hair coverage. Hair loss at the crown is called Norwood Type 3 vertex. This stage is much more difficult to conceal with a haircut than Norwood Type 2 hair loss. The hairline recedes deeply at the temples, resembling an M, U, or V shape, and hair may be thinning or completely absent in those areas. Norwood Type 4 hair loss is characterized by additional hair loss at the front of the scalp and crown enlargement. Depending on the anticipated future hair loss, a hair transplant in Turkey can be done for either the crown or the front. Medications are used to thicken and prolong the life of the remaining hair. Men under 45 with Norwood Type 4 hair loss are likely to experience further hair loss, and hair loss patterns are inherited from one's family. If your hairline has receded to Norwood Type 4 hair loss, medications like finasteride and minoxidil along with a transplant surgery in Istanbul can stabilize the remaining hair and improve its thickness and coverage.

Stage 5 and 6

Norwood Stage 5 is characterized by significant hair loss, with only a tiny tuft remaining in the forelock, the bridge separating, and the bald crown getting bigger, while the temples recede. A hair transplant is recommended considering where to position the hairline, along with minoxidil and finasteride to slow down hair loss. When performing a hair transplant, the crown or the forelock of the patient in Istanbul is prioritized as donor hair isn't enough for a revert to a Norwood 2 pattern. The main goal is to establish a permanent hairline; a carefree look is vital to any hair transplant. The hairband separating the hairline and crown becomes smaller and thinner, with noticeable hair loss. While medications may help prevent further hair loss, hair transplant surgery may be a viable option with realistic expectations. However, it is essential to note that more than donor hair may be required to transplant and achieve complete coverage. Norwood Stage 6 is when the hair loss pattern progresses to a severe level. The hairline and vertex scalp almost entirely lose hair, resulting in a large bald area with only thin and sparse hair between them. The coverage becomes more and more minimal, and the horseshoe pattern of hair loss around the head becomes more visible. Medications are less effective in treating hair loss at this stage. Hair transplant surgery in Turkey can restore some coverage, but the available donor hair is limited. The main priority is always naturalness; the hairline position is key to a natural look.

Stage 7

Norwood stage 7 is an advanced stage of hair loss. It happens when the Norwood 6 pattern recedes further, leaving a strip of hair around the head. Transplantation is challenging due to limited donor hair and a large area to cover. The design process is critical to achieving a look that doesn't look forced and suits the individual's face shape. Broadly there are two options for restoration, creating an isolated forelock or rebuilding the apex to make a Norwood 6 pattern reappear. If you are experiencing any similar symptoms, do not hesitate to connect with us to know more.