At our clinic, we understand that achieving natural-looking hair is a top priority for our clients. To achieve this, we employ a meticulous approach known as “Graft Calculation.” This process involves determining the precise number of grafts required to restore your hair to its desired density and appearance.
On healthy, normally-haired skin, there are approximately 180-200 hair follicles per square centimeter. The objective of hair transplantation is to replicate this natural density. To demystify this process for our clients, let’s clarify what a “hair graft” is. Contrary to common misconception, a graft is not the hair root; rather, it’s the term used to describe the group of one or more hairs that are situated together at the hair root, along with the small surrounding piece of skin. A single graft may contain roughly 1-2-3 hairs, or in some cases, even 4-5-6 hairs. For instance, when we mention 2000 grafts, it translates to 4000 to 6000 individual hair follicles. You can find an illustrative example below.
Our highly skilled medical team determines the graft calculation first through a comprehensive photo assessment and then during an in-person consultation with a detailed analysis. Subsequently, the required number of grafts is carefully extracted from the donor area, located between the two ears at the back of the head. It is imperative for the success of the hair transplant that these grafts are sourced from the individual’s own hair or beard.
The accuracy of the graft calculation hinges on a variety of factors. To ensure a top-tier hair transplant, it is essential to have an adequate supply of both quantity and quality of hair in the donor area. Factors such as hair structure and hair density also play pivotal roles in achieving a successful outcome.
Below, you’ll find a reference table based on the Hamilton Norwood scale, which outlines the degree of hair loss and the corresponding number of grafts required for various stages:
Class 1
Class 1 represents normal hair growth and no visible hair loss.
No hair transplant necessary.
Class 2
is characterized by the beginning of the retraction of the hairline and “receding hairlines” form on the forehead.
1,500 grafts
Class 3
patients show a clearer regression of the hair over the temples and also the hairline on the forehead. At class 3 vertex, the person’s hair loss starts significantly at the vertex.
2,000 – 2,500 grafts
Class 4
hair loss is clearly noticeable on the crown or the patient has significant hair loss over the temples and forehead.
3,000 grafts
Class 5
hair losses reach distinct forms with the greatest hair loss in the vertex and crown area. A hair transplant of this class or higher will require more grafts to achieve coverage and fullness.
3,500 – 4,000 grafts
Class 6
Patients show great hair loss but still have donor areas. This hair can still produce excellent results. In two sessions approx
4,000 – 4,500 grafts
Class 7
Patients show the greatest hair loss ever. There may still be enough areas with donor hair for a collection, but the results will be limited.
4,000-5,000 grafts