What stage of Norwood balding is this? Do I need a hair transplant? (Photos)

Thank you for sharing the photos and the timeline—that context is very helpful. I’ll be very direct and honest with you, while also reassuring you.

Based on the images provided and your age, this pattern most closely fits early androgenetic alopecia, consistent with Norwood stage II, possibly early II–III depending on how the temples continue to evolve.

What I’m seeing

Recession at the temples, more than the mid-frontal hairline

Good density behind the hairline and across the scalp

No evidence of advanced crown thinning

Progression appears slow, especially considering you noticed changes as early as age 17

This is a very common pattern in young men and does not represent severe or advanced hair loss.

Do you need a hair transplant right now?

No — at this stage, a hair transplant would be premature.

Here’s why:

At 21 years old, your hair loss pattern is not yet stable

Transplanting too early often leads to an unnatural look later as surrounding native hair continues to thin

Most ethical hair surgeons would advise against surgery at this age unless hair loss is aggressive and refractory to treatment

A transplant is not a “preventive” treatment—it’s a redistribution of hair. If the underlying hair loss isn’t controlled first, surgery alone won’t age well.

What actually makes sense right now

The priority at your age is preservation, not surgery.

Evidence-based options that help slow or halt progression:

Finasteride (oral or topical) – addresses the hormonal driver (DHT)

Minoxidil – supports hair density and prolongs growth cycles

Consistency over time – results are judged over 6–12 months, not weeks

Many men who start treatment early never need a transplant—or can delay it well into their 30s or 40s with far better outcomes.

Comparing to your photos at 17

The fact that you’re comparing photos from 17 to now and not seeing dramatic loss is actually a good sign. That suggests:

Slower progression

Good long-term potential with medical therapy

Bottom line

Norwood stage: Early II (possibly early II–III)

Hair transplant now: ❌ Not recommended

Best next step: Medical management + monitoring

I know hair changes at your age can feel stressful, but you’re catching this early, which puts you in the strongest possible position. With the right approach, you’re far more likely to keep your hair than chase it later.

Receding hairline is not a hair loss because of ongoing process of androgenetic alopecia but a simple juvenile type maturing of frontal hair line. That is seen almost every young boys almost between 16-21 that have a very rounded hairline without recession in the corners. Recession in the corners is a sign of mature pattern male frontal hair line. So I dont advice you to have a hair restoration surgery because that may change your natural look except receding hairline badly efffects your social life and causes a psychological and physical inadequacy in your life.