Hair Loss

barngrill

I started losing a lot more hair than normal at around 3.5 months post surgery. My doctor told me I would lose the most between 3 and 6 months post surgery. I am 5 months post surgery. I'm getting in my protein. Will it even out, and when? The amount of hair I am losing is really starting to freak me out. It's quite a lot. I have really thick hair to begin with so it is not as noticeable to others...for now. Any help from others experiencing this is appreciated.

NicoleL874

Telogen Effluvium. It is a type of hair loss that is associated with a sudden shock to the body. It is often caused by anesthesia.

Our hair has a life cycle. The final part of that cycle is when it sheds. When we undergo anesthesia our hairs will get shocked and will fall into that part of the cycle typically 4 - 6 months later. Also, when we consume too little protein, our bodies will force itself into telogen effluvium as a way to preserve muscle.

What you're experiencing now is probably from surgery itself. Depending on how long it took you to get your protein up to about 70 grams a day will determine how long it will last.

Honestly, you could do all you want to up your protein, buy fancy shampoos, use high levels of biotin, but it won't help *now*. Anything you try doing now will help you down the road. I hate to say it, but you're going to have to ride it out for now. Try shampooing and brushing less to keep the hairs in. Dry shampoo is your friend.

Good luck, I wish I had better info!

barngrill

Thanks Nicole. I had never heard about the surgery itself being a factor. Like my body in surgery, I am in shock by the amount coming out this past month! I will try to ride it out without too much panic. My protein levels are where they should be, so I hope to turn the corner soon.