Hi Trey .. when I looked at your crown, I just thought you could use concealer to give a thicker, fuller look and I think Hersute`s suggestion regarding a front-partial, could buy you a little more time before shaving the top off....you should have a chat with that salon guy ..would [should] be a bit cheaper too and you`d keep as much of your own hair as possible for another while. I suppose the price/s quoted is reasonable enough as you are getting bonding and cut-in`s done too.... I guess for a total new-wearer, having the `comfort`of being eased into this game courtesy of an experienced stylist, who`s well-used to systems, is probably a good way to go and less of a hassle/stress..... whichever course you take [Topper or partial] you could use the first months to see how it`s done etc. and then you`d have the option to go totally on your own by sourcing systems on-line and having them cut-in locally. To confirm...wearing will have no adverse effects on your growing hair .... the main thing is regular de-bonding and cleaning of the scalp etc. to avoid possible health issues such as skin becoming irritated by sweat/bacteria building up under adhesives,especially in very warm weather.... and by the way---I enjoyed reading your post...very nicely-put and easy to `follow`..... would be interested to hear how things progress with you. You do need to psyche yourself up for this, especially as you`re so young..there are `issues`to deal with, but the way I look at it is, while it`s not as good as having all your own hair, it`s better than facing into a future of baldness... I think those products to help you stop the balding are expensive, and have side-effects for many guys...once you stop taking them, the baldness marches on..... at least wearing doesn`t have side-effects. Best regards.