Hair Loss After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

hair loss after gastric sleeve surgery
hair loss after gastric sleeve surgery

Why Does Hair Loss Happen After Bariatric Surgery?

Hair loss after gastric sleeve surgery is a very common condition. A study published in the Journal of Bariatric Medicine found that 70% of patients experience temporary hair loss within the first 6 months after surgery.

Hair loss typically begins in the second or third month after surgery and can last up to eight to nine months after the procedure.
If the patient’s weight loss slows down or stops, the hair loss also tends to cease.Most of the hair lost will grow back once the weight loss has stopped.

How to Prevent Hair Loss After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

There are some precautions you can take to prevent or minimize hair loss.
Make sure to take the multivitamin tablets recommended by your doctor after surgery regularly. If needed, supplement with extra protein after surgery, for example through a protein shake recommended by your doctor.
Additionally, B12, folic acid, zinc, and iron levels should be regularly checked to detect any deficiencies and address them promptly.

Preventing Hair Loss After Weight Loss Surgery 

If the hair loss is bothersome for the patient, mesotherapy can be considered. Mesotherapy is a treatment involving hyaluronic acid and essential nutrients that can improve the quality of the patient’s hair.
It’s important to note that hair loss following sleeve gastrectomy is temporary and will not be permanent.
The more closely you follow the advice given to you after surgery, the less likely you are to experience significant hair loss.

How long does hair loss last in a gastric sleeve?

Hair loss after gastric sleeve surgery typically lasts for about 6-12 months and then gradually starts to improve. However, it is important to remember that each individual’s experience may vary. Some patients may experience more severe hair loss while others may not notice much change at all.

The good news is that the hair loss is usually temporary and will eventually stop on its own. In most cases, patients can expect their hair to start growing back within a few months after the initial shedding period.

To help promote healthy hair growth during this phase, it’s important to follow a well-balanced diet and take any recommended supplements regularly. Your doctor may also suggest using special shampoos or topical treatments to support hair growth.

hair loss after gastric sleeve surgery
hair loss after gastric sleeve surgery

Which bariatric surgery causes hair loss?

While all types of bariatric surgery have the potential to cause hair loss, gastric bypass surgery is typically associated with the highest risk. This is because the procedure involves rerouting a portion of the small intestine, which can lead to nutrient deficiencies and imbalances in the body.

Additionally, rapid weight loss after undergoing bariatric surgery can also contribute to hair loss. When the body experiences a sudden change in weight, it can trigger an increase in stress hormones that may disrupt normal hair growth cycles.

It’s important to discuss any concerns about hair loss with your doctor before and after undergoing bariatric surgery. They can provide guidance on how to prevent or manage this side effect and ensure you are maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle for optimal overall health.

What vitamins are good for hair loss after bariatric surgery? 

After bariatric surgery, your body may have difficulty absorbing certain nutrients from food. This can lead to deficiencies in important vitamins and minerals that are necessary for hair health.

Some of the key vitamins that can help with hair loss after bariatric surgery include biotin, iron, zinc, and vitamin D. Biotin is known for its role in promoting healthy hair growth, while iron and zinc help with red blood cell production and support overall scalp health. Vitamin D also plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy hair follicles.

How to keep hair from falling out after gastric sleeve? – Prevent hair loss after bariatric

Aside from taking the necessary vitamins and minerals, there are other steps you can take to prevent hair loss after gastric sleeve surgery. First and foremost, it’s important to focus on maintaining a healthy and balanced diet that includes enough protein, iron, and vitamin C. Protein is essential for strong and healthy hair growth, while iron helps with oxygen transportation to hair follicles.

Additionally, it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Dehydration can contribute to hair loss by depriving the scalp of necessary moisture.

Another helpful tip is to avoid excessive heat styling or harsh chemicals on your hair. These can damage your already weakened strands and lead to further hair loss.

hair loss after bariatric surgery
hair loss after bariatric surgery

Reasons for hair loss After Bariatric Surgery? 

Hair loss after bariatric surgery can occur for several reasons. Firstly, rapid weight loss can put stress on the body and cause temporary hair shedding. This typically occurs 3-6 months after surgery and should resolve itself within a year.

However, if there is a prolonged nutrient deficiency or poor dietary habits, hair loss may become more severe and long-lasting. This is why it’s crucial to maintain a healthy diet and monitor nutrient levels after gastric sleeve surgery.

Additionally, some people may experience hormonal changes after bariatric surgery, which can also contribute to hair loss. Hormones play an important role in hair growth, so any imbalances can lead to thinning or shedding.

Don’t worry, you won’t go bald!!!!! Your hair will grow back just as it fell out.

Why is my hair falling out after gastric sleeve?

Rapid weight loss is a common outcome after undergoing Gastric Sleeve surgery, as the procedure significantly reduces the size of the stomach and limits food intake. However, one potential side effect often observed in individuals who experience quick weight loss is hair loss. This occurs because rapid weight loss can sometimes lead to nutrient deficiencies, particularly in protein, vitamins, and minerals, which are essential for healthy hair growth. While this hair loss is usually temporary, it’s important to follow a balanced diet and take any recommended supplements to support overall health and recovery.

Is it normal to have hair loss after surgery?

Hair loss is not directly caused by surgery itself. Instead, it is commonly observed after surgery when rapid weight loss occurs, which can place stress on the body. This type of hair loss, often referred to as telogen effluvium, is a temporary condition triggered by significant changes in the body, such as rapid weight loss, changes in nutrition, or stress experienced during recovery.

How long does hair fall out after weight loss?

When weight loss stops or slows down, hair loss also stops, and the lost hair begins to grow back. Hair that has fallen out usually starts to grow back around the ninth month.

Is hair loss after gastric sleeve surgery permanent?

No, hair loss after gastric sleeve surgery is temporary. Most patients experience hair regrowth within 6-12 months after the initial shedding period.

Can mesotherapy help with hair loss after gastric sleeve surgery?

Yes, mesotherapy is a treatment that involves injecting hyaluronic acid and essential nutrients into the scalp. It can improve hair quality and promote regrowth, especially for patients experiencing significant hair loss.

Which bariatric surgery causes the most hair loss?

While all bariatric surgeries can cause hair loss, gastric bypass surgery has the highest risk due to nutrient malabsorption. Rapid weight loss also contributes to hair shedding.

How soon can I expect my hair to grow back?

Hair regrowth usually begins around the ninth month after surgery. Most patients notice significant improvement within 12 months.