The prevalence of obesity is increasing worldwide and has become a significant public health issue in many countries. Surgical treatment for obese patients is an accepted treatment strategy globally.

Hair loss is a common complication following obesity surgery. Studies have shown that approximately half of the patients after obesity surgery experience hair loss (57%). It typically occurs between 3 to 6 months post-surgery. Hair loss generally does not create a serious health condition and does not result in permanent baldness; however, it can cause unnecessary stress in patients and affect their mental health, self-esteem, and quality of life.

Although the exact cause is not fully understood, it has been observed to be associated with certain conditions and deficiencies in vitamins and minerals.

Protein loss in the post-operative period, excessive weight loss, surgery-related catabolic stress, and psychological stress can contribute to hair loss.

There may be a reduction in the absorption of certain vitamins and minerals after obesity surgery. These deficiencies have also been associated with hair loss.

It has been noted that hair loss is more prevalent in patients with low levels of zinc, folic acid, and ferritin.

No significant relationship has been observed between hair loss and low levels of vitamin B12 and iron.

Hair loss is particularly more common in young women. This may be due to women having longer hair, leading to a higher requirement. Additionally, young women may report hair loss more frequently due to aesthetic concerns.

Patients experiencing hair loss after obesity surgery should be ensured to take vitamins containing at least 30 mg of zinc daily.

Wen Zhang, Meiling Fan, Cunchuan Wang, Kamal Mahawar, Chetan Parmar, Weiju Chen, Wah Yang, Global Bariatric Research Collaborative. Hair Loss After Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Obes Surg 2021 Jun;31(6):2649-2659. doi: 10.1007/s11695-021-05311-2. Epub 2021 Mar 5.