Hair Loss

I had surgery on July 19 and am about 4 1/2 months out. I thought I'd visit the February board to ask for advice on hair loss. Did any of you go through the hair loss period? How long did it last? Is it still happening? Any advice to help slow it down? Thanks!!

Hair loss can seem alarming, but it is very normal after WLS...it usually starts at month 3 or 4 and can last for a few weeks to a few months. Mine lasted 2 months. As for slowing it down, there are myths about what will and won't slow it down...but bottom line it has to run it's course. Obviously not getting in enoug protein and not taking your suppliments will cause it to be much worse...so make sure your getting in enough protein everyday, take your suppliments, and just wait it out. Scott PS some people suggest zinc and biotin...but i'd be careful about overdoing vitamins. I started taking zinc at the time I started losing hair, and it caused my labs to go wacky...apparently too much zinc can interfer with the absorbtion of other microminerals.

Thanks for the reply!

Scottie is correct. Once you start loosing, all you can do is ride it out. My hair loss started about 10-12 weeks out and lasted 10-12 weeks. I didn't loose as much as some people (like my mom ... she lost a TON). I've been really good about getting my protein/water/vitamins in from day one. You won't go bald. It will stop. And, when it grows back in, it will be so healthy from all the vitamins you're taking!

Cool! Thanks for the encouragement!!

Hi,, Mine started at about 4 months, I was getting all my protein etc. But everytime I brushed my hair I felt like I was going to go bald. I have very fine, thin hair so it was obvious for me. But at a bout 6 months it stopped, and it has all grown back. so I think its just one of those things we have to go through, But it is all so worth it. Cathy

It's definitely worth it!! Thanks for the encouragment!