Question:
Is there anything I can do pre-op to reduce hair loss after surgery?

   — Jackie H. (posted on February 2, 2002)

February 2, 2002
Nope... not everyone loses hair plus it isnt a vitamin or protein deficiency, it is the stress of the surgery and a form of shock your body goes through. I lost a lot of hair during month 5 and it is already back in month 7... thick and perfect. Even though I was freaking out, it wasnt a big deal because I was so happy about losing so much weight I wouldnt have cared if I went bald! Dont worry about it...it is really minor.
   — SusanMaria

February 2, 2002
Hi! I am pre-op still waiting on insurance. But I'm getting my hair in order. Hoping for surgery in mid-March. Just had a cut and a perm and a conditioning treatment. In about 2 wks will start using Nioxin products: Cleansing Shampoo, conditioner and a scalp treatment that puts vitamins in the scalp. Will be taking biotin (a vitamin supplement) along with the other vitamins recommended by dr. I use really good hair products and take good care of my hair which is pure white (at 51) by the way and suspect I'll have some loss but by all I've heard, hair comes back usually even better. So these are some suggestions for you. I hear worst time is months 4-8 but varies. Good luck to you!
   — AJC750

February 2, 2002
Definately. Eat 100 grams of protein per day. Massage your scalp daily in the shower for 2-3 minutes to stimulate circulation to the scalp and hair follicles, and DON'T SMOKE. Good luck!
   — DianeN

February 2, 2002
I have a thyroid problem that prior to treatment had caused a lot of hairloss. It was scary. I did some research and tried Evening Primrose Oil along with cutting my hair so there wasn't as much tension on it from the length and sure enough...it all grew back in and is nice and healthy now. This is what I'll be using all along hoping to stave off the typical fallout after surgery. I also found a formula that is specifically for hair and nails ..a vitamin/mineral combo called Hair& Nails that has sped up the strength and growth of both. I got that from smartbasics.com. Evening Primrose Oil is available everywhere. Good luck to us all.
   — valiciah

February 3, 2002
I am almost seven months post-op, and hair loss was a worry to me pre-op also. My hair began to shed about 3 1/2 months post-op and stopped at 6 months post-op. If your hair is somewhat thick, the shedding will not be noticed by anyone but you. At six months my hair started growing at an accelerated rate. Now my hair is as thick and long as before surgery. The one thing that helped me was my protein intake. I didn't do the shakes or anything, but I made a real effort to eat meat at every meal. I think it's important to get in the right amount of protein. Good Luck!
   — Tammy W.

May 25, 2002
Nioxin, which is a professional product sold in hair salons is very effective in feeding the hair and preventing hair loss. It has been used in the shop I work at for years with very positive results. It is a shampoo and a liquid you put right on the scalp. I would highly recommend it.
   — Jean B.