Significant and rapid hair loss after Breast Augmentation. Could this be a side effect of the surgery or anesthesia?

Question

Hello! I had BA surgery (silicone implants) early march of this year - followed by a revision for a hematoma in one breast about a month later. Now at about 3 months post-op, I am experiencing significant and rapid hair loss which does not seem localized to one area. Could this be an effect of my surgery and anesthesia!? I'm following up with my general practitioner for bloodwork as well. Any advice would be so much appreciated. :(

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS · Answer

I'm sorry to hear that you had to undergo secondary surgery for breast hematoma after augmentation mammoplasty. Even though our rate for bleeding is about 1%, my partner and I do several hundred breast augmentations each year, so every few months we have a hematoma to drain, usually occurring within post-op days 10-27.So, you had to undergo two operations, two anesthetics, and two "stresses" to your physiologic processes. Certainly, hair loss is a well-known phenomenon that can occur with the adrenocortical stress hormone response to anesthesia, and whatever low risk that is was doubled in your case.The good news is that it (almost always) is temporary, and your hair will rebound and regrow in the next 10 months. Yes, months (groan, I know). But this condition is usually temporary and I have seen it many times over the three decades I have been a surgeon. In the meantime, I would suggest Rogaine, which is available over the counter at your local drugstore. BTW, worry about this can actually make hair loss persist or worsen. So, relax and this will self-correct as time goes by. The reason it takes so long is because of the length of the hair growth cycle. Best wishes! Dr. Tholen

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

Change of blood flow, and scarring (deep and at the skin level) can cause hair follicles to shut down restricting new hair growth. The current hair may go in the dormant phase (telogen) and fall out (telogen effluvium). Areas involved with scarring may result in areas of permanent loss of hair.Please read the attached link for more information.

Joe Gryskiewicz, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi Florida,Yes, it is possible to have some hair thinning after anesthesia.  It is very, very rare.  So that's a bummer, and it is too bad you are having this happen.  You are doing the right thing, however!  Your hair follicles are the buds that produce hair on your scalp, and they turn over up to one year at a time, like the buds on a tree that come out in the Spring time.  So hang in there.  Also you are doing the right thing to see your general practitioner, to rule out anything else, because hair loss from anesthesia has been reported, but I have never personally seen it.  I have done over 300 breast augmentations each year for many years, and no patient has yet to experience it.  I would suggest you start taking Biotin daily (OTC) supplement.  Second start using Minoxidal, 2% liquid, also over the counter at any pharmacy.  For the time being, use hair products that thicken your hair until this is all behind you.All the best,"Dr. Joe"

Significant and rapid hair loss after Breast Augmentation. Could this be a side effect of the surgery or anesthesia?

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