Experiencing Hair Loss after Bariatric Surgery? Tips for Overcoming Issues with This Common Side-Effect

 

After receiving bariatric surgery, there are several common side effects than can occur. One of these is experiencing hair loss. According to research, the incidence of hair loss related to metabolic bariatric surgery is 57% and typically occurs around 3 months following the procedure. There are several speculations as to why hair loss occurs including potential zinc, iron, or biotin deficiency. In addition, the stress of surgery on the body itself can lead to hair loss much like pregnancy does.

We want each of our patients to know that this is a normal occurrence for our patients, but it is temporary. With time, hair loss should resolve and patients can start to see positive changes. This usually occurs around the 9–12-month mark following surgery. Although it is true that hair loss is inevitable for many of our patients, there are some key measures that will exacerbate this effect. Make sure that you are consuming adequate protein (60-80 grams) as well as keeping up with the correct amounts of vitamins and minerals, per advice given by your healthcare provider.

Some other tips that might help mitigate hair loss following weight loss surgery are as follows:

• Consume around 60-80g of protein each day
• Include a protein with every meal and snack
• Take vitamin and mineral supplements as recommended by your doctor
• Supplement with zinc, iron, and/or biotin if needed
• Eat a wide variety of healthy, nutrient-rich foods each day (70% protein, 30% vegetables)
• For cosmetic upkeep, use over-the-counter Rogaine (minoxidil)

Being able to closely follow these recommendations will help you feel confident in your health, despite the uncomfortable side effects that come with bariatric surgery. If you continue to experience additional hair loss even after the 9-month mark, supplementation with iron and/or zinc might be recommended for additional support. We understand that experiencing hair loss is not ideal for many of our patients, but rest assured that it is only a temporary experience.

Links to related articles:
Hunger Between Meals
Tips to Help with Hunger
Weight Regain: Living with Fear and Dread

 

www.RMAP.com
Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians
801-268-3800
1521 East 3900 South, Suite 100
SLC, UT 84124

 

Resources:

1. Wen Zhang, Meiling Fan, Cunchuan Wang, Kamal Mahawar, Chetan Parmar, Weiju Chen, Wah Yang, “Hair Loss After Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis”; 2021 Mar 5. Doi: 10.1007/s11695-021-05311-2l; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8113177/