Hair loss???

I'm only just over 2 months out, and keep hearing about hair loss. When can I expect the locks to start falling out, how long does it last & when does it start coming back????? Not really looking forward to it, but just want to know, Ugggg.......

Hi Mary - Don't worry, you won't go bald!!!  Seriously, I had hair loss between months 3-6 and I already had thin hair to begin with.  Try not to panic, I think stress makes it worse.  But it doesn't happen to everyone, and it WILL grow back.  In fact, my hair's in better shape now than pre-op!!  Some people take a supplement for hair and nails called Biotin, and others use a special ($$) shampoo called Nioxin.  Personally, I found that the Restoratives line by Pantene had some good products. I spoke at an information session about a year ago and that question came up.  Dr. Moen said it was a lack of protein and I respectfully disagreed - I was the MOST compliant wls patient you could find, always making sure protein was my #1 priority.  The only other thing I can suggest is patience - easy for me to say, but I HAVE been there.   Besides, I told myself I'd rather be bald and thinner!!!  Don't play "What if.....?" you'll drive yourself crazy!! Tia

I think the thing I dread most is hair clogging up the shower drain. That will drive my husband crazy....

Mine started at about month 3. I'm at 4.5 months now. I'm far from bald, but started out with lots of hair. We've had to use Drano Max already, lol, and we have a grate over the drain. My roommate was po'd, lol, but got over it. I completely agree with Tia. Even though I'm not a model patient, protein is not something that I lack, and I'm losing hair. I've been told its the stress on the body, from major surgery and from the change in caloric/carb/fat intake. Obviously it doesn't happen to everyone, because at least to someone who hasn't known her for that long, Darla doesn't seem to have suffered hair loss.

Hi Mary, I am over 6 months post-op and I have not lost any hair.  I think that I am probably in the minority.  I kept preparing myself for the inevitable but I think (hope) that I am now home free!! Kendra

Hi Mary, I started losing my hair like 2 1/2 months post op it was a bit disturbing to me at first.  But I didn't go bald.  I did take biotin and it helped with the regrowth.  The hair slowed down al lot falling like on month 6.   Make sure to take the biotin (sp)

You know a few weeks ago when this started with me, I wasn't too worried. HOWEVER< now I am freaking because it is literally falling out in clumps. I am getting enough protein, I average 95-110 grams a day. I do need to work more on my fluids, I am getting about 50 oz a day. But other than that I take my vitamins everyday, so I guess that it will stop when my bodies decides enough is enough. It sure does cause some stress though.

Like most people already said, 3-6 months is the average, sooner for some, never at all for some.  Happened big time for me but that's because I never get enough protein (like 40-45 gms a day tops!).  I was lucky enough to have super thick hair in the first place so it only made mine more manageable and fluffier.  Only my hairdresser can really see "thin" spots and even she says she wouldn't notice if she wasn't looking for it.  If it happens and really freaks you out just get some protein supplements like Pro-stat or Profect.  LOL, I'm looking at a flashing ad for it right now on the left side of this screen as I type.  Good luck!   No hiding from the hair loss monster!!!

 I guess I'll just have to see what happens. Hair loss should be the least of my worries.  Thanks for all the info. Mary