Hair loss after bariatric surgery is extremely common, but it is still very stressful. Below is background information on why it happens and tips to help prevent hair loss after surgery.
Hair loss after weight loss surgery, known as telogen effluvium, relates to the hair growth cycle. It begins suddenly and usually lasts no more than 6 months. Hair growth has two phases: anagen (growth) and telogen (resting).
About 90% of hair is in anagen, while 5-15% is in telogen, lasting 1 to 6 months. Stress and hormonal changes can push more hair into the resting phase, leading to shedding 1 to 6 months post-surgery, typically starting around 3 to 4 months.
As new hair grows, old follicles are released, causing hair loss, sometimes before new growth appears, which can be unsettling.
Surgery, a very low-calorie intake and possibly low protein intake can begin the process of hair loss. Additionally, any illness along the way, an underactive thyroid, iron deficiency or genetics can lead to about 5-15% of your hair follicles.
Other nutrients associated with hair loss include zinc, biotin, folate, vitamin B-6 and essential fatty acids.
The good news is that you can depend on the hair growing back unless a chronic illness or genetic condition for hair thinning is present.