Question:
when does it stop

Hi, I had my open on 4/14/03 and have lost about 70 lbs. I am losing hair really fast. I am not sure when it started but I know it has not stopped and I don't see anything growing back in. I am 7 months out and the hair on my head is so thin you can see my scalp on all sides. I bought I wig so I would have it just in case I end up bald. How long does the hair loss last. Does hair have to wait until the next growth time which I don't even know when that will be. I know everyone says not to worry you will not go bald but I am beginning to think I may be the first. I do get my protein in each day and even bought biotin but I am not sure how much to take. I know this subject has been talked about lots of time before but I guess I just need to hear from you guys with some positive reassurrane that I will not be Yul Brenner or Michael Jordan by xmas. Thanks, I am still delighted to have lost 70 lbs. It is really exciting and I feel great but I sure wish I had more hair on the top of my head. Also, one more humorous question. How come it doesn't fall out of my pits or legs so I don't have to shave? My daughter and I really laugh about that question. Good luck to everyone and God Bless!    — Maureen C. (posted on November 21, 2003)

November 21, 2003
I know how you feel. I remember the panic thinking, how much more can I take!? I lost from month 4-12. Now at 3.5 years I have too much hair and can't use any volumizer or like that. So hang in there it will come back, just know it is a small price to pay for a fab bod! Best of luck!
   — ZZ S.

November 21, 2003
OH! I forgot to comment on your why doesn't the hair...I agree!! I often think what a cruel hoax when the men lose hair when they get older and we grow it on our chins! What's that about? :)
   — ZZ S.

November 21, 2003
Ohh Maureen i know how u feel...just on today i am sooo saddened with my hair..i mean u can see my scalp in all areas..hair was my thing had beautiful hair now its gone soo thin i cant hide it..dont know what to do--i said today goin to buy me a wig..just soo much u can do to hide the thinness..soo i do feel u and i wish i could say something to encourage u as i need it myself some encouraging....but,as they say those that have experienced it..it will come back.....and ohh i hope soon.....Nyway, 4 1/2 months post op down 85#'s so that makes me happy.. and oooh yea i have been takin biotin for a month now and do i see results wellll i say wellll but soon i hope...... Cornelia
   — Cornelia W.

November 21, 2003
I had hair loss too. I started taking zinc and that seemed to slow it down. I also started using desatin shampoo. I had one previous surgery and the same thing happened. I got a cradle cap like fungus on my scalp. A dermatologist helped with that. I went ot her because it was falling ut. Although many people will say it is THIS surgery it can be any surgery. If your insurance covers it you may just check with a dermatologist.
   — Rebecca K.

November 22, 2003
I have to wear a wig for a diffrent reason....if you do go buy a wig, only wear it when you absolutely have to.....it will keep the new hair from growing and make the hair you have fall out easier. It turns into a catch 22....you wear the wig to hide the hair loss, but shouldn't wear the wig to promote good hair growth! Gentle scalp massages help the hair folicles grow hair back. The up shot to wigs is it takes me 15-20 mins to get ready to go anywhere.....plus you can have many style's and colors in minutes!
   — nani68

November 22, 2003
Hi, I am a little over a year post-op, and I went through a rough phase with my hair as well, where it all seemed to be falling out in clumps! I didn't purchase a wig, but I did buy a "hair scrunchie" at the mall for $10. These are great little things that match your hair color, and give you a great up-do that can be worn in a professional setting. Since you pull all your own hair (or in my case, what little hair I had left) back, no one notices the hair loss, and I felt more comfortable going out, and to work, and everywhere else. Good luck, and hang in there, it isn't forever! :)
   — Dawn M.