Hair Loss with DS

[switch2lose 32]

I have read and heard from DS patients about temporary hair loss post-op. Just curious how many of you experienced this and how extensive the loss was and how long. Thank you for sharing.

[toastedink 115]

I also heard that might happen. So I started taking hair Anew Vitamins (Biotin) right after surgery.

[James Marusek 5,244]

I did not experience any hair loss but some patients do. Generally Hair loss occurs during the weight loss phase and once you transition into the maintenance phase, it slows down and recovers.

[catwoman7 11,210]

it's a common side effect of all the weight loss surgeries, not just DS. Most people experience "shedding" for a few months (doesn't necessarily last all the way to the maintenance stage - I've read a lot of posts from people experiencing it for 2-4 months, too). They notice it - but no one else does. A minority of people lose no hair at all (that was me - I didn't lose any), and another minority lose noticeable chunks. But again, most people are somewhere in the middle. If so, you'll likely be the only one who notices.

It usually starts somewhere around month 3 to month 6 post-op. If it's going to happen it's going to happen - not much you can do to prevent it. But keeping on top of your Protein and supplements will probably help it from getting any worse than it is...

P.S. Like James said, it does grow back.

[HuneComz 103]

For whatever reason, this is a HUGE concern for me. Maybe because I consider my hair my best physical feature. I have seen two people get sleeved and they both noticeably suffered from Hair loss. I looked it up and found this:

The hair loss associated with bariatric surgery is called telogen effluvium and has to do with the normal hair growth cycle. It usually starts abruptly and very seldom lasts longer than 6 months. Human hair has a two stage growth cycle.

(https://www.drdkim.net/ask-the-dietitian/understanding-hair-loss-after-bariatric-surgery/)

It seems it is allegedly temporary and if you eat your Protein and take a Vitamin, it can help. As my best friend who was sleeved says, what is some hair loss compared to all-around better health? I guess I have to agree.

With the birth of each of my children, I lost LOTS of hair and still had lots to spare, so that is my hope with WLS.

[KristenLe 5,979]

There's not much you can do to prevent it - if it's going to happen - it's going to happen. Meet Protein goals, take Vitamins but keep in mind you may still experience Hair loss.

[Postop 411]

It began at about 3-4 mos. out & lasted till about a year or so out.

[Ingrid33 9]

I lost my hair after three month surgery so I decide to go short

Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

[Meickle Oswald 1]

Hi, I am new to the site and this forum, but I am in maintenance, 7 years out. I experienced hair loss about 5 months out and it has never returned to normal. My hair continues to be thin although most other people don't notice. I lost all the hair all over my body not just my head. It is a common occurrence but nothing compared to the heaalth issues I had before surgery.

[kcb* 8]

hair loss is definitely a concern of mine, but one I'm happy to endure for health. I've read that it typically resolves and I have a friend almost 9mos postop who said her hair is coming back now, however, and hadn't noticed the loss.

Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

[Scott Zimmie 2]

I have read and heard from DS patients about temporary hair loss post-op. Just curious how many of you experienced this and how extensive the loss was and how long. Thank you for sharing.

I have been taking BariLife Vitamins and if anything I have been lucky. My hair is actually a little thicker and no loss. My doctor said as long as I keep my Protein up and take my Vitamins no problem. I had my surgery on 21 June 2016 it has now been about 4 months and so far very few complaints. Just make sure you have some beano when you first start eating your veggies.

[SIPSGrammy 27]

I had SIPS 06/2015. hair started shedding around 4 months out. My hair used to be my best feature, not anymore. With Vitamins, Protein (LOTS of it) it's just starting to grow in slowly. My new hair texture is different, very kinky and frizzy, thin and I feel like a scarecrow. I hope this starts growing in faster. With all that said, I wouldn't have changed anything about my surgery!

[Ajs2011 0]

Not getting enough Protein. 100g per day.