Hair loss after bariatric surgery, or while on GLP-1 medications, is a common issue among patients, but it doesn't have to be permanent. In this BariNation episode, we welcome back Dr. Edmund Chen to discuss why hair loss after bariatric surgery occurs and what you can do about it. Dr. Chen explains that post-bariatric surgery hair thinning happens due to the stress the body is subject to from surgery and rapid weight loss. The good news? With the right approach—including increased protein for hair growth, targeted vitamins like biotin and zinc, and getting in movement for increased blood flow—you can minimize loss and promote healthy regrowth. April shares her personal journey with hair loss and the strategies that helped her see real results. Whether you're pre-op or already experiencing thinning, this episode offers practical, expert-backed solutions.
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IN THIS EPISODE:
- 00:00 Why do bariatric patients experience hair loss after weight loss surgery
- 03:30 Top three solutions: protein for hair growth, vitamins, and brands that support hair growth
- 04:30 Importance of bariatric vitamin regimen, including biotin and zinc supplements, and collagen for hair health
- 07:39 How exercise and hair growth connect through increased scalp blood flow
- 09:02 Practical tips: massage scalp, focus on basics before investing in expensive hair regrowth treatment
- 10:33 Dr. Chen reassures patients that hair loss is temporary and regrowth happens after reaching their lowest weight
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Bariatric hair loss is temporary and typically stops once you reach your lowest weight—it's a sign your body is prioritizing weight loss surgery recovery and metabolic changes over hair growth
- Increase your protein for hair growth intake beyond typical goals (aim for 80-90 grams daily if experiencing thinning) since hair is made of protein and requires adequate nutrition to regenerate
- Exercise and hair growth are directly connected—regular movement increases blood flow and oxygen to hair follicles on your scalp, creating healthier conditions for regrowth
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BIOGRAPHY:
Dr. Edmund Chen, a skilled bariatric surgeon, graduated with honors from Johns Hopkins University and earned his medical degree from Cornell University. After researching metabolism at the National Institutes of Health and training at Northwestern and Duke, he specializes in ultra-minimally invasive bariatric surgery using the da Vinci system, including gastric sleeve, bypass, and revisions. Known for compassionate, patient-focused care, he optimizes outcomes for bariatric patients at his Dallas practice the Texas Center for Bariatric and Advanced Surgery, where he partners with Dr. Joe Cribbins.
ABOUT:
If the BariNation podcast helps power your bariatric journey, become a monthly podcast supporter and help us produce the show! Visit www.barinationpodcast.com and help us support people treating the disease of obesity with humor, humility, and honesty.
About BariNation: BariNation is a bariatric educational organization on a mission to empower patients to access and utilize the tools, resources, and education needed to find and maintain personal wellness. We connect patients with the support they need and when and where they need it. BariNation produces an award-winning weekly podcast distributed on all major podcast and video platforms and hosts a support membership community that teams up with credentialed and licensed bariatric experts and clinicians.