I know there have been so many posts out there about hair loss. So, here is yet another one! I am not at all a vain person...truly. However, my hair and my nails are the only thing I feel make me feminine. I know that's crazy, but that's me. Everyone has said it's inevitable and I will lose hair...quite a bit, I'm sure. However, I would like to know if there is anyone that has found a way to decrease the loss. Are there any supplements, vitamins, or shampoos that can be used prior to surgery to prepare your body...maybe to minimize the loss? Also, is there any change to fingernails?

You can take Biotin pre-op to help start regrowing hair, but scientifically there is absolutely nothing we can take, or use to decrease the loss. Some people swear getting in even more Protein will stop, but there's a couple members here that get 80-100 grams of protein, and they lost more hair than I did.

I'm looking for the article that discusses this issue.

I did start using Folicure extra care shampoo when I noticed I was losing hair. It helps the regrowth. I started getting regrowth within a month-month and a half of losing it. Now, I have 2-3 inches of new growth all over my head especially around my hairline along my forehead and temples. I have these little hairs sprouting up all over the top of my head. I look like a Chia pet when I brush my hair when I get out of the shower.

You aren't alone in how you feel about your hair and nails. I loved my thick, full of body hair. I always get solar nails pink/whites so I can't comment on the nail issue.

Here's the link on hair loss after any surgery, or traumatic event.

Telogen Effluvium: eMedicine Dermatology