Question:
Please tell me what vitamins and or shampoos I should use .

How long before surgery should I start taking the vitamins.    — Kathy A. (posted on April 27, 2002)

April 27, 2002
Nothing has been proven to prevent hair loss with WLS, however, SOME people have reported less hair loss and faster re-growth when increasing their protein intake and using biotin and zinc suppliments. These suppliments are readily available at your local nutrition store. Before taking any suppliments, consult your doctor.
   — Karen B.

April 27, 2002
Well, I am only 8 weeks, so my hair loss has not started yet. However, I do take 2500 mg. of Biotin every day. Also at our support group meeting the other night, there was a hairdresser there that had had surgery and she recommended Nioxin shampoo. She said you could get it at the salon. Hope this helps you some. Good luck and God Bless
   — terrifogle40

April 27, 2002
Hi... I am 3.5 wks post op and also take biotin but began about a month ago using Nioxin products. They come in a 3 pack: a cleanser (shampoo) a conditioner both of which get washed out then a nutrient supplement which you squirt on in about 8-10 spots and comb thru and leave on. It energizes the scalp. All 3 are minty and leave your hair and scalp feeling very fresh. As a routine too I have always used Sebastian Potion 9 (about a quarter size) which you just rub into your hair and then a gel. So I'll see in a few months if any of this helps. Best of luck to you.
   — AJC750

April 27, 2002
HI! Well, I am 5 months post op and have had pretty massive hair loss. I must say it is a small price to pay for having lost so much weight (90 lbs!). My sister is a hairdresser and said there is virtually no way to avoid the hairloss associated with WLS. WLS is a major shock to the body and less protein means something has to give. I would much rather lose my hair than lose muscle mass in something such as my heart. The only real way (as stated by the previous poster) to slow the rate of hair loss is by increasing protein in your diet. I am required to get 60 grams per day but shoot for at least 125 grams. This has really helped. As for vitamins, I would reccomend a woman's multi before surgery. As for after surgery your needs will change and I would follow your doctor's protacol. Good luck on your journey!
   — purdue_1993