I Don’t Want to Start Treatments Prematurely

Hello Dr.Rassman,

I’m a 29yr old male who has recently become concerned/aware of recession at my temples, an undisputable norwood class 2. From my research, on this site and others, a norwood 2 can be indicative of a maturing hairline rather than male pattern baldness. Although the notion that what im experiencing is only the normal evolution of my hairline alieviates some of my stress I cant help but wonder when one is supposed to become concerned. I dont want to experience more recession before I take action, but on the other hand i dont want to start on expensive treatments prematurely. In your opinion, what norwood class should one reach before taking action?

A quick secondary question – Im a Canadian citizen spending most of my time between Montreal and Vancouver. Do you know of any reputable doctors in those cities that have the ability to map for miniturization?

Thanks for providing such a great resource for all of us out there with concerns! Blogs like this are few and far between.

It seems you have done your research. You are correct in stating that a Norwood Class 2 may be indicative of a maturing hairline rather than male pattern baldness. If you are concerned about male pattern baldness, you may want to see a doctor who can view your scalp hair under a hair densitometer for miniaturization and quantitatively record if there is any pattern for thinning. There’s no rule as to what class should be reached before action is taken. I always tell patients: “If it ain’t broken, don’t fix it”

With respect to a reputable doctor, you need to follow the recommendations on researching your doctor. Check with the doctor search at ISHRS.org as a point to start the search.