Hair Loss After Surgery
- 6 Causes & 5 Effective Solutions
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9 Clinics
Across the UK
Expert Team of
professionals
Over 1 million Treatments
delivered
Award winning
Clinics Across the UK
Rated 92%
on Trustpilot
Surgery can take a toll on your body, and sometimes, that includes your hair. If you've noticed shedding a few weeks or months after a procedure, you're not alone.
Hair loss after surgery is a common and typically temporary phenomenon. It’s often caused by physical stress on the body, anesthesia, or nutritional deficiencies, leading to a condition called telogen effluvium.
Hair normally grows back within 3 to 6 months after the body has recovered.
In this guide, we’ll explain why post-surgical hair loss occurs, which procedures are most commonly associated with it, and how to manage and treat it, including advanced solutions.
Hair Loss After Surgery: 6 Causes & 5 Recovery Solutions
Hair loss after surgery is most commonly due to telogen effluvium, a condition where more hair follicles than usual enter the resting (telogen) phase and eventually fall out. This usually occurs 1 to 3 months after surgery and may last for 3 to 6 months. It's not usually permanent, and with proper care, hair tends to regrow within 6 to 12 months.
Common Causes of Hair Loss After Surgery
There are several reasons why your hair might start shedding after an operation:
- Physical Stress: Surgery is a physical shock to the body, and hair follicles may react by pausing growth.
- Anesthesia: General anesthesia can temporarily affect blood flow and regulate the hair cycle.
- Nutritional Deficiency: Many patients experience difficulties with appetite or nutrient absorption after surgery, particularly following bariatric procedures.
- Blood Loss: Reduced oxygen and nutrient delivery to the scalp can disrupt hair growth.
- Medications: Certain antibiotics, painkillers, and blood thinners may trigger shedding.
- Hormonal Shifts: Surgery can stress the adrenal and thyroid systems, leading to hair imbalance.
Surgeries Most Linked to Hair Loss
Hair loss is more common after:
- Major surgeries, including abdominal or orthopedic operations
- Cosmetic surgery, especially procedures that affect hormone levels or involve lengthy recovery
- Weight loss surgery (bariatric), which often leads to nutrient deficiencies
- Any surgery requiring general anesthesia, particularly if it lasts several hours
Signs of Surgery-Related Hair Loss
Here’s how to know it’s surgery-related telogen effluvium:
- Hair starts shedding 1–3 months after surgery
- Loss is even and all over the scalp, not in patches.
- You notice more hair on your brush, pillow, or in the shower.
- The hair feels thinner, but the scalp appears healthy.
- No scarring, redness, or severe irritation.
How Long Does Hair Loss Last After Surgery?
In most cases, hair loss starts 1–3 months after surgery and peaks around the third month. Regrowth typically begins around month 6, and full healing can be expected within 6 to 12 months, depending on your overall health and recovery process.
Proven Solutions to Treat Post-Surgical Hair Loss
Lower Your Stress Levels
- Get plenty of sleep.
- Gentle movement (walking, stretching) can support circulation.
- Try calming activities like meditation or journaling.
Focus on Nutrient Recovery
- Prioritise iron, zinc, vitamin D, biotin, and protein
- Consider post-surgery supplements (ask your doctor)
- Hydrate and eat balanced meals, even if in small amounts.
Review Your Medication
- Don’t stop any meds without your doctor’s advice.
- Ask if alternative drugs are available if hair loss is severe.
Switch to Gentle Haircare
- Avoid tight hairstyles, heat tools, and harsh shampoos.
- Use mild, sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners.
- Avoid chemical treatments like dyeing or bleaching.
Try Advanced Hair Regrowth Treatments at CoLaz
CoLaz offers professional solutions to support regrowth:
- PRP Hair Restoration: Uses your plasma to reactivate dormant follicles
- Laser Hair Regrowth Therapy: Stimulates blood flow and boosts the scalp’s healing process.
- Hair & Scalp Consultation: Identify the root cause and get a personalised treatment plan
How Much Does Treatment Cost?
Preventing Hair Loss Before Future Surgeries
To reduce the risk in future operations:
- Eat a nutrient-rich diet leading up to surgery.
- Minimise stress during recovery.
- Discuss possible side effects of medications and anesthesia with your medical team.
- Plan for a CoLaz hair consultation before surgery for personalized support.
When to Seek Professional Help
Hair loss after surgery is usually temporary, but speak to a professional if:
- Hair isn’t growing back after 6+ months
- You notice patchy bald spots or redness on your scalp.
- The shedding continues or worsens suddenly.
- At CoLaz, our team can assess your scalp condition, recommend the right solutions, and monitor your progress.
Conclusion
Hair loss after surgery can feel discouraging, but it’s common, temporary, and treatable. The proper steps from nutrition to professional treatments can help you recover your hair’s strength and volume.
At CoLaz, we offer advanced, non-invasive treatments, such as PRP and laser hair therapy, to support natural regrowth. If you're experiencing post-surgical shedding, don’t wait - book a consultation today and let us help you restore your confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hair loss after surgery is often caused by stress on the body, anesthesia effects, or changes in nutrition. These factors can disrupt hair growth cycles, leading to a temporary condition called telogen effluvium.
No, it’s usually not permanent. Hair loss is temporary for most people and resolves as the body recovers, typically within 6–12 months.
You can support hair regrowth by eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins, staying hydrated, avoiding harsh hair treatments, and managing stress with relaxation techniques.
If hair loss persists for more than a year, becomes severe, or exhibits unusual patterns, such as bald patches, consult a doctor. They can recommend treatments, such as supplements or specialized scalp care, for you.
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