Question:
Will Electrolysis work Post-op if on no meds for my PCOS?

I have PCOS. Prior to my surgery I was on the BCP to treat it. Since my surgery I haven't been taking the pill. I have lost 116# to date and am goal. I have started to deal with the facial hair growth side effect of the PCOS. My hair did not respond to Laser so I am having to go with Eletrolysis. My question is if I am not taking any meds for my PCOS. Will the eletrolysis truly work and permanently remove the hair? I don't want to keep paying for weekly visits if the hair is going to return. Do I still have the PCOS even with the weight loss? Thanks!    — jmusser (posted on June 8, 2004)

June 8, 2004
Sorry, I don't have an answer for you. I just came here because I, too, have PCOS and was also wondering this. I just had my RNY three weeks ago though. I thought that losing weight would take care of the problems from PCOS but I was told that it will not. So I am going to ask my PCP if she thinks I should see an endocrinologist.
   — Donna F.

June 8, 2004
From what I understand PCOS seems to resolve after weightloss in most cases. However the hair growth that you have because of it is there it may come in finer or slower to grow but it is not going to just go away. Future hair growth can be minimum or very fine best case scenario. I plan to and would still try electrolisis for the remaining hair.
   — davesband1

June 8, 2004
I am glad someone finally brought this up!!! My hair is worse since surgery. I am going to try electrolysis also. I hope it will work. I wish I would get the extra hair on my head not my face!!!! I am still losing hair on my head. I am sorry you have to deal with this problem, I know how embarressing and painful it is!!!
   — GAYLE CARMACK-LYONS

June 8, 2004
Pcos is never cured, but the symptoms can sometimes be controlled with lifestyle changes and medication. THIN women also have PCOS. I have lost 170 lbs. and still occassionally have symptoms. I take two medications for it which help tremendously. Spironolactone and Metformin. I am hoping to avoid Diabetes Type II. The best and most knowledgeable doctor to treat this is an Endocrinologist. There is a medication that you can apply for excess hair growth called Vaniqa. I began using it about a month ago and I see less hair growth coming in. I think that the hair may respond to electrolysis, but maybe you can try the Vaniqa. It is much less expensive. It is a Prescription medication. Good luck!
   — Allison M.

June 9, 2004
I also have facial hair in a major way. What is PCOS? Maybe I have it too.
   — Regina J.