What Norwood am I and is Propecia worth it? (Photos)

Question

What Norwood hairline level would I be considered? I have been on rogaine for 6 months and notice my hair is much thicker on the top of my head but am still lacking in the hairline. I am currently considering Propecia but I have some apprehensions. Is Propecia worth the potential risks and what kind of gains could I hope to see? Given my level of recession, would a hair transplant just look kind of silly/unrealistic especially on the sides of my head? Thank you.

David Deutsch, MD · Answer

From the photos provided you appear to be a Norwood class 3- I don’t see any photos of the top of your head. Minoxidil and/or Propecia most likely would be helpful in your case to prevent the progression of hair loss and maintain what you have. Hair Transplantation is definitely an option as well but you would need an in office evaluation to determine your candidacy and discuss the process.

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

Based on the available photos, you appear to be a Norwood Class 3.Hair restoration is like a train...there are many cars and they are all headed in the same direction. The closer you are to the engine the faster you will reach your destination (i.e. the caboose is the last t pull in).
There are a number of modalities available ranging from supplements, topical therapies, medical therapy (Rogaine/Propecia) and PRP.
Patients may try one intervention at a time beginning with the least involved and add or replace as they see results. Each has positives and negatives and not all will be equally effective.
Hair grafting is the final and most definitive solution, however this should be delayed until you have reached a stable hair pattern. This is due to the fact that the grafted hair is permanent and if you have not reached a stable pattern you can expect further losses and the need for more grafting to avoid the appearance of a double hairline (grafted hairline followed by losses and the receding natural hairline)..With regards to your specific question,Propecia is an option. Potential patients should be aware of the side effects aswell as the need to continue medical therapy to maintain any gains (indefinitely). I would forego hair transplant until you have stabilized (this does not mean you will not be a candidate in the future). Otherwise, you may be committed to further grafting in the future as your pattern evolves. 
As always, discuss your concern with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS) with experience in hair restoration.
Donovan Rosas MD
Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member: American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American Society of Plastic Surgeons
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Matt Tahsini, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. You are a Norwood class 3 but it looks like the early stages. I suggest taking Finasteride, it will help slow down the thinning process and in some cases it can stop or reverse hair loss. I wish you the best.

Sara Wasserbauer, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

You are a Norwood 3. Finasteride would be my recommendation too you. Using it along with Minoxidil will help slow down the loss and help thicken existing hair.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

You have a Norwood Class 3 pattern that is early and you should get a HAIRCHECK test to find out if you have thinning you can't see. Finasteride is a good drug to slow down, stop and sometimes reverse the genetic hair loss process

What Norwood am I and is Propecia worth it? (Photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Propecia

Answer: Propecia

Answer: Norwood Class 3 pattern that is early

Answer: Norwood Class 3 pattern that is early

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What Norwood am I and is Propecia worth it? (Photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Propecia

Answer: Propecia

Answer: Norwood Class 3 pattern that is early

Answer: Norwood Class 3 pattern that is early

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Everything you need to know about Hair Loss Treatment

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.