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Hair Loss after Lap Band Surgery



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Ugh, I've been noticing some extra hair coming out in the shower lately. I really don't like it! I really was under the impression that I was getting enough Protein. I usually have an egg with cheese and sometimes a sausage link. lunch is usually tuna, a greek yogurt, or some leftover protein from the night before and maybe a veggie or fruit. dinner is protein based, usually turkey, chicken, or beef. I can eat about 1 cup of food still. I don't typically do any Protein shakes during the day. Sometimes I'll have some low fat, sugar free ice cream for a snack later in the evening.

Any thoughts? I've heard Nioxin Shampoo works... any ideas on that or any other supplements I can take to stop this. I have really thick hair, and want to keep it that way!

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See this article for a full explanation...

Everyone experiences hair loss on a daily basis. Normal Hair loss is barely noticeable, amounting to less than 100 hairs per day. However, the stress of a major surgery can cause hair loss to accelerate up to three times as much in both men and women. It's the body's way of reacting to the trauma of the operation.


  • The Facts
    • During a normal Hair growth cycle, hair grows, then enters into a resting or "telogen" period and eventually sheds. According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, "telogen effluvium" is a term used to describe hair that has been rushed into the resting state after the body suffers a shock due to major surgery. As resources are redirected to help heal the affected surgical area, the body temporarily shuts down hair production because it is not necessary for survival.

Identification

  • Telogen effluvium related to surgery can be distinguished from other forms of hair loss in several ways. Individuals typically begin to notice the increasing hair loss two to three months after the surgery. hair loss after surgery is uniform, noticeable on the scalp but never excessive enough to cause a patchy appearance or complete baldness. In addition, the shed hairs all exhibit a specific pattern at the root, which resembles a white bulb.

Time Frame

  • Hair usually resides in the telogen phase for a period of two to four months before growth resumes. Individuals don't begin to notice the increase in hair loss when showering or brushing the hair until about three months post-surgery. Although the resting hair is being pushed out of the scalp by new hair that is already growing, it can take anywhere from about six months to a year for the hair to return to its normal fullness.

Gastric Bypass Surgery

  • Individuals who have undergone gastric bypass or other operations of the digestive tract designed to reduce obesity are more prone to hair loss post-surgery. This is due to the reduced intake of food in the weeks and months immediately following these procedures. The body needs an adequate amount of Proteins and Vitamins to maintain hair production. Protein-enhanced shakes are often recommended for these patients as a substitute until solid food can be better tolerated.

Proper Diet

  • Hair loss related to surgery typically reverses itself without any medicinal intervention or the need for over-the-counter hair loss tonics or treatments. However, maintaining a diet rich in Protein and Iron is believed to help promote and speed up healthy hair growth. Suggested foods include salmon, Beans, eggs, spinach, broccoli, nuts and whole-grain cereals. Avoid foods that can inhibit hair growth, such as those that contain high levels of caffeine and fat.

Read more: Losing hair After Surgery | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/...l#ixzz1QtFeANl3

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I've experienced Hair loss as well. I'm trying to get as much Protein as possible (even bought Special K protein Water packets to add to my water... 5g per serving!) My dr recommended taking Biotin to help too.

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Thanks for the info! I knew to expect it, I thought I was doing well with Protein, but the above article was especially helpful! I'll increase my protein and Iron and go from there!

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I've noticed a little also and im a little over 3 months. I had fairly thick hair so I am not to worried yet. If it gets anymore I might start to worry

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