Question:
Can long/heavy hair increase the amount of hair lost?

I have fairly long hair. I am worried the length/weight of my hair will cause my hair to be more prone to falling out, or may cause a greater amount to be lost. Does anyone know? Also how close to the time for surgery is it ok to perm your hair? I know I won't be able to do anything for a while afterward and want to wait until the last possible minute to have my hair permed. Thanks, Leica    — Leica R. (posted on June 9, 2003)

June 9, 2003
I had all my hair cut off before my surgery, I did still lose some hair afterwords. I guess the change in your body chemistry or something. YOu may not have this problem though. I have cut my hair again and miss my long hair. Good luck to you .
   — angelkisses9136

June 9, 2003
From everything I've read the length and weight of your hair has no bearing on loss. It has to do with genetics (how well you physically handle surgery and rapid weight-loss), diet (some people need more carbs to keep their hair healthy or more fats or more protein - it's such a mish mosh depending on your body chemistry), how fast you lose weight, and how healthy your hair is pre-op. How thick your hair is can only determine how much you notice any losses.
   — [Deactivated Member]

June 9, 2003
I had medium length hair when I had surgery 5yrs ago. Last nite we cut a few more inches off because if was just to long. I started letting the hair grow out after WLS. I have not had the hair loss and it is very healthy. I get many compliments. Most of the time it is wash and wear, and can't forget the pony tail days. Again it is gonna be what you need to be comfortable, pretty, and special to yourself. Good Luck
   — chubbygirl99

June 12, 2003
As a former hairdresser, I can say with certanty, length and weight of your hair will have nothing to do with the loss of it. Hair loss occurs after surgury for several reasons. Trauma to the body, lack of protien, not enough carbs, or lack of vitamins. My hair is almost down to my waist and (unfortunaly VERY thick) and so far, I've only had very little of my hair comming out. Also surgery can (although not always) cause perm and color to wash out. I always advised peopel not to color or perm hair 1 month before, or 2 months after surgery, as the anesthesia can cause both perms and color to take uneven. If you do decide to have it done post op, have the stylist do a pre treat like poristy controll, or a good protien treatment. If you have it done before you go in, do it about a month before hand, and use a combination of protien and good moisturisor. I use bead head's dumb blonde 1x/week, and use bead heads moisture maniac the rest of the time. It seems to help. Good luck and God bless!!
   — mellyhudel