Question:
Need a Perm

I need to get a perm> Should I get it before or after my wls? Or do you think it would cause my hair to come out more. My hair is in good condition but on the thin side.    — mawmawb (posted on December 28, 2006)

December 28, 2006
Get a perm before. Afterwards, sometimes all the meds from being put to sleep and how your body reacts makes them hard to take. Why do you lose your hair from a perm? Is that something normal for you? I am 3 weeks post op and I have not had any hair loss.
   — Diane C.

December 28, 2006
I'd stay natural; but talk to your surgeon and beautician before you make a decision. I don't know if there has been a lot of conversation about hair prior to the surgery, I know there's been a lot talk about hair after the surgery. My partner and another friend of ours went natural -- I think my partner braided her hair -- she has very soft hair and not too thick or thin. After surgery, stick with the protein and your hair should be fine.
   — the7thdean

December 28, 2006
I am 4 mos post op. 2 weeks ago my hair started falling out by the hand full! Still is. Very thin now. I get my protien and water in, I take all the right vitamins. My surgeon said it happens to most everyone and there is nothing one can do to stop it. I used to get perms and my hair would break at the scalp giving one the impression that it is falling out. That is the difference. You should get it before the surgery if you are intent on doing so. I am terribly thin on hair now! :)
   — dessary316

December 28, 2006
I had surgery 8 weeks ago. I did not even comb my hair while I was in the hospital. Why look great if you're gonna be in pain and laid up. I get my hair done religiously, but decided that while I was in the hospital(confined to a bed)that the money would be better spent after I was up and around. I got a perm after surgery and right before my first post-op visit, which was 10 days after surgery and 18 pounds lighter.It made a world of difference to me to be on the lighter side, with my hair freshly permed and looking and feeling good. Best of luck to you.
   — purnellj