A frequent question we get from surgical patients is “Will I lose a lot of hair?” This is a common concern, as some patients have heard isolated reports that they will experience hair loss after bariatric surgery. Although it can occur after surgery, maximizing your protein intake and taking the appropriate supplements can minimize this issue.
When hair loss does occur after weight loss surgery, it is typically a result of the body experiencing some degree of malnutrition as well as a stress reaction. Rapid weight loss plus major surgery both put stress on the body, and obviously bariatric procedures limit food intake by design and if the patient isn’t eating right, mild malnutrition can occur.
Protein intake is our primary focus after surgery for many reasons. One such reason is that adequate intake of protein is the best way to avoid significant post-op hair loss. Vitamin supplementation is important as well, to ensure proper nutrition to support all of the body’s functions, including hair health.
Biotin supplementation stimulates the regrowth of hair in some individuals. However, biotin will not prevent the actual loss so patients will still experience hair falling out without overall adequate nutrition.
Keeping all of your follow up appointments is key to maintaining good health and minimizing issues such as hair loss. Our providers and Registered Dietitians will monitor nutritional intake as well as lab values. Our team uses that information to help us to tailor a supplementation regimen appropriate for each patient!
