SEPTEMBER 29, 2024

Hair loss is common and can result from a variety of factors, such as genetics, poor nutrition, aging, alopecia areata, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, postpartum changes, breastfeeding, chronic illnesses, certain hair care products, tight hairstyles, hormonal imbalances and surgical procedures and acute severe diseases  (1,2).

Hair loss can be a common side effect of major surgery due to a combination of factors such as physical stress, changes in nutrition, anaesthesia, and recovery. This type of hair loss is often referred to as telogen effluvium, a temporary condition where hair shifts into a resting phase and sheds more than usual. While this form of hair loss is typically reversible, there are steps you can take to minimise the risk before and after surgery (3).

Why Surgery Can Cause Hair Loss

1. Anticoagulants (Blood Thinners): Heparin and warfarin are commonly used after surgery to prevent blood clots. These medications can sometimes cause hair thinning or loss.
2. Beta-Blockers: Medications like propranolol and metoprolol, used to manage heart conditions, blood pressure, or to reduce stress during surgery, may lead to hair loss.
3. Antiseizure/Anticonvulsants: Drugs such as valproate or carbamazepine, which are sometimes used to manage nerve pain or prevent seizures during or after surgery, can trigger hair loss.
4. Chemotherapy Drugs: If the surgery is part of cancer treatment, chemotherapeutic agents like cisplatin, cyclophosphamide, and doxorubicin can lead to substantial hair loss.
5. Immunosuppressants: After organ transplants or major surgeries involving the immune system, drugs like cyclosporine or methotrexate are often used, and these can also cause hair thinning or shedding.
6. Antidepressants/Antianxiety Medications: Drugs like sertraline or fluoxetine, often prescribed after surgery to manage anxiety or depression, can sometimes cause hair thinning as a side effect.
7. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Ibuprofen or naproxen, used to manage post-operative pain, have been linked to hair loss in some cases.
8. Steroids: Prednisone or other steroids, used to reduce inflammation or as part of post-surgical recovery, may also lead to hair loss (4).

Hair Care Before Surgery

Taking care of your overall health and making certain lifestyle changes before surgery can help minimize hair loss. We recommend preparing your hair before surgery by following these steps:

1. Eat a Balanced Diet: Ensure your body is well-nourished before surgery to support hair growth and overall health. Include a variety of nutrient-rich foods that promote hair strength:

2. Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can negatively affect scalp health and hair strength. Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to surgery to keep your scalp moisturised and healthy.
3. Consider Supplements: If you are unable to get all the essential nutrients from your diet, speak to your doctor about taking supplements such as: Biotin, Iron, Vitamin D and Zinc. These supplements can help maintain healthy hair before surgery, but always check with your doctor before starting any new supplements.
4. Manage Stress: Emotional stress can also contribute to hair loss. Since surgery can be stressful, try relaxation techniques like: Deep breathing exercises, meditation or yoga and talk to a therapist or counsellor if needed.
5. Avoid Crash Dieting: Sudden and extreme changes in diet, especially those that significantly reduce calories or cut out important food groups, can lead to hair thinning. Make sure you are eating balanced meals before surgery to give your body the nutrients it needs to maintain hair health.
6. Gentle Hair Care: Be gentle with your hair in the weeks before surgery to prevent unnecessary damage or breakage: Avoid harsh chemical treatments (e.g., bleaching or straightening), limit heat styling (e.g., blow drying, curling irons), avoid tight hairstyles that pull on the hair (e.g., tight buns or ponytails) and use mild hair friendly shampoos and conditioners such as Dr Hamid Hair care and regrowth products. Dr Hamid Hair care and regrowth products are a good choice for people who are undergoing any surgery for pre and post-surgical hair care. They are made from natural ingredients and enriched in essential minerals to stimulate hair regrowth, prevent hair loss, and maintain healthy hair by penetrating through the skin to the hair follicles directly (5,6).

Post-Surgery Hair Care

After surgery, we recommend continuing these practices to support hair regrowth and minimize hair loss:

If you notice significant hair loss after surgery that does not improve over time or if you have other symptoms such as fatigue or changes in weight, consult your healthcare provider. Hair loss could be a sign of an underlying condition such as: Nutrient deficiencies (e.g., iron, vitamin D), thyroid imbalances or hormonal changes. Your doctor may recommend blood tests or other assessments to check for any underlying causes (7,8).

Summary

Hair loss before or after major surgery is often temporary and related to physical stress, nutrient deficiencies, or changes in the body. By eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, managing stress, and taking care of your hair by using Dr Hamid Hair Care & Regrowth products before surgery, you can reduce the risk of hair thinning. After surgery, continue focusing on nutrition and gentle hair care with Hamid Hair Care & Regrowth products to support recovery and hair regrowth.