How Bald Should I Be Before a Transplant?

I am a 25 year old male, and I am probably a Norwood III Vertex. Most of the balding is at the crown, but now the front is getting thin as well. My father is completely bald, Norwood 6 I guess.

I have a feeling I’ll end up like him or close to it. I have been on Rogaine and Propecia since I was 19, and 21, respectively. They may be slowing down the balding process, but it is still gradually worsening.

Do you recommend waiting until I’m totally bald like my father, before considering a procedure? What is your best advice for me? Thank you.

At the age of 25, it is not unreasonable to consider hair transplantation to restore the corners of your hairline. The key is to develop a good Master Plan with a doctor who will know how far to push it and not to be too radical. Any crown loss that is transplanted in someone of your age with your pattern, may not be a good medical decision. It sounds like you have done well with the Propecia, so it is not unreasonable to put the corners back and expect that Propecia will allow you the enjoyment of hair for much of your youth. Your worst case, of course, is your father’s hair loss pattern, but provided that you stick to transplanting the front only and that your hair is healthy and of adequate densities, you will never look abnormal and should join the choirs of men your age who want to maintain their youthful look. Generally, I do not recommend hair transplants in men under 25, but there are always exceptions to that general rule.