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.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✅ Why bariatric patients experience hair loss and how metabolic surgery side effects, like caloric deficit and body stress, trigger hair loss
✅ The essential role of protein for hair growth and how increasing your daily intake can help prevent post-bariatric surgery hair thinning and support regrowth
✅ Which bariatric vitamin regimen works best, including biotin and zinc supplements, collagen for hair health, and hair, skin, and nails vitamins to promote stronger hair
✅ How exercise and hair growth are connected through increased blood flow to the scalp, plus proven hair regrowth treatment options for hair regrowth
Tune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation Community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as little as $5 per month! You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time or recurring donation.
TIMESTAMPS:
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
ABOUT THE GUEST:
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.
Edmund Chen, MD - LinkedIn
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
Hair Loss and Exercise Study
BariNation Website
BariNation - Email
BariNation - Partnership Monthly Membership
BariNation’s How to Find an Obesity Specialist Guide
