Why Hair Loss Happens After Surgery
Hair plays a big role in how we feel about ourselves. A full head of hair is often linked to health, youth, and confidence. That’s why post-surgery hair loss can feel alarming. The good news: this type of hair loss is temporary, and your hair will grow back.
The medical term for this process is telogen effluvium — a temporary shedding phase triggered when the body undergoes stress, such as surgery or rapid weight loss.
Understanding the Hair Growth Cycle
Each hair follows a natural growth cycle. Around 90% of hairs are in the active growth phase (anagen) for 3–7 years. Next comes the transitional phase (catagen), lasting about three weeks, where 5–15% of hairs are found. Finally, the resting phase (telogen) lasts 2–4 months before the hair falls out. Losing around 100 hairs a day is normal, but this number can increase when the body is under stress.
Why Hair Loss Increases After Weight Loss Surgery
Many factors can push more hairs into the telogen phase at once. These include major surgery, significant blood loss, emotional stress, hormonal changes, infections, or rapid calorie reduction. After weight loss surgery, several of these factors often coincide — especially hormonal fluctuations, reduced calorie intake, low protein intake, and the physical stress of the operation itself.
What You Can Do to Reduce Hair Loss
First, try to stay calm. Losing 5–15% of your hair after surgery is normal, and regrowth typically begins around the six-month mark. In some people, the hair loss may be more noticeable, but it remains temporary.
The following steps can support faster recovery and healthier regrowth:
1. Prioritise Protein Intake
Protein is essential for hair growth. Bariatric specialists usually recommend at least 60 g of protein per day. Because food intake is limited early after surgery, protein powders can be useful. Some people tolerate protein from food sources well enough to reach up to 2 g/kg per day, depending on digestion. Adequate protein helps stabilise the hair cycle and supports recovery.
2. Take Special Post-Surgery Vitamins
Vitamins designed specifically for post-bariatric patients contain adjusted doses of essential nutrients. Key ingredients include B vitamins, folic acid, zinc, biotin, calcium citrate, and vitamin D. These support both overall health and hair regrowth.
Important: avoid excessive vitamin A and zinc, as too much can worsen shedding.
3. Monitor Iron Levels
If follow-up tests show iron deficiency, supplementation may be necessary. Always discuss iron replacement with your doctor, as taking it without medical supervision is not recommended.
4. Add Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Eating omega-3-rich fish several times a week or taking a fish oil supplement can support healthy hair and help reduce inflammation. Omega-3s are also beneficial for heart and metabolic health during weight loss.
What If Hair Loss Continues?
Even with perfect nutrition and supplementation, some temporary shedding may still occur. Being mentally prepared before surgery helps reduce anxiety during the process.
If hair loss lasts longer than six months, speak with your doctor to rule out other causes such as thyroid issues, deficiencies, or unrelated medical conditions.
The most important thing to remember: your hair will grow back. Telogen effluvium is temporary, reversible, and a normal part of the healing process for many patients after weight loss surgery.
