Your graft count depends on your hair loss pattern, desired density, and available donor supply. Here's a guide to estimating your needs — but remember, only an in-person or photo consultation can provide an accurate assessment.
Graft Estimates by Norwood Stage
The Norwood Scale is the standard classification for male pattern baldness. Each stage corresponds to a typical graft range needed for restoration.
| Stage | Description | Grafts Needed | Medellín Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Norwood 1 | Minimal recession | Usually not needed | — |
| Norwood 2 | Minor temple recession | 1,000 – 1,500 | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Norwood 2A | Temples + early frontal | 1,500 – 2,000 | $1,500 – $4,000 |
| Norwood 3 | Deep temple recession | 2,000 – 2,500 | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Norwood 3V | Temples + crown thinning | 2,500 – 3,000 | $2,500 – $6,000 |
| Norwood 4 | Frontal + crown loss | 2,500 – 3,500 | $2,500 – $7,000 |
| Norwood 5 | Extensive loss, band remaining | 3,500 – 4,500 | $3,500 – $9,000 |
| Norwood 6 | Only horseshoe remains | 4,500 – 6,000+ | $4,500 – $12,000+ |
| Norwood 7 | Minimal donor remaining | 5,000 – 7,000+ | May need 2 sessions |
Most Common: Norwood 3-4
The majority of hair transplant patients fall in the Norwood 3-4 range, typically needing 2,500-3,500 grafts. This is the "sweet spot" where intervention provides dramatic improvement with a single session.
Grafts vs Hairs: What's the Difference?
Grafts (Follicular Units)
A graft is a tiny piece of tissue containing 1-4 hair follicles that grow together naturally. This is what surgeons extract and transplant.
Total Hairs
To calculate total hairs, multiply grafts by 2.2. This gives you the actual number of individual hairs being transplanted.
Factors That Affect Your Graft Count
Desired Density
Want maximum density or just natural coverage? Higher density requires more grafts in the same area. Most patients opt for natural density (40-60 grafts/cm²); some choose higher for hairline (80+ grafts/cm²).
Hair Characteristics
Coarse, wavy, or curly hair provides more coverage per graft than fine, straight hair. Dark hair on light skin needs more density for coverage than dark hair on dark skin or gray hair.
Donor Area Density
Your donor area (back and sides) determines how many grafts can be safely extracted. Dense donors yield more grafts; thin donors may limit options. This is evaluated during consultation.
Future Hair Loss
A good surgeon plans for continued hair loss. If you're 25 with Norwood 3, you may progress to Norwood 5. Conservative planning preserves donor supply for future procedures if needed.
Areas Being Covered
Hairline alone requires fewer grafts than hairline + crown. Some patients prioritize frontal density (what people see) over crown coverage.
Understanding Donor Limits
Lifetime Harvestable Limit
The average person has approximately 5,000-6,000 grafts that can be safely harvested over their lifetime without visibly depleting the donor area. This is a finite resource.
Red flag: Clinics promising 5,000+ grafts in a single session for moderate hair loss should raise concerns. Over-harvesting damages your donor area permanently and may leave you with worse options if you need future procedures.
Quick Cost Calculator
Estimate Your Medellín Cost
Getting an Accurate Quote
Online estimates are starting points only. An accurate graft count requires evaluation by a surgeon who can assess your specific hair loss pattern, donor density, hair characteristics, and goals.
For a consultation, clinics typically need:
Photos Required
- • Front view (hairline clearly visible)
- • Top view (crown clearly visible)
- • Side views (both sides)
- • Back view (donor area)
- • Photos in good lighting, no hats
Information Needed
- • Age and when hair loss started
- • Family history of baldness
- • Current medications (finasteride, minoxidil)
- • Previous hair transplants (if any)
- • Goals and expectations
Get Your Personalized Graft Estimate
Submit photos for a free assessment from vetted surgeons in Medellín. Get an accurate graft count and pricing for your specific situation.
Get Your Free Quote