Understanding the Bariatric Surgery Recovery Process

Light exercise is recommended shortly after surgery to encourage proper circulation and healing.

After adequate recovery time in the hospital, patients can return home or to their hotel. You will experience some discomfort, which can be controlled with prescription medication prescribed by the surgeon. Begin your exercise plan by walking a few times daily; otherwise, rest most of the time.

The First Few Weeks After Weight Loss Surgery

After about a week, you should not experience as much pain, so you can increase your exercise habits by taking daily walks to encourage circulation and promote healing. Avoid long periods of inactivity to reduce the chance of blood clots. By now, most patients will begin to include pureed or strained foods. The patient’s diet should still consist of pureed foods, and to avoid serious complications, patients must follow dietary guidelines.

Arrange for Help When You Return Home

Have a friend or family member help you with daily tasks until you can handle them by ourself. You may need help getting to the bathroom or showering for the first few days. Assistance with tasks such as caring for children, pets, and grocery shopping may be necessary. You will also need someone to drive you to appointments until your doctor clears you to drive again and you are no longer on prescription pain medication.

Returning to Work

Typically, most patients feel strong enough to return to work after two to four weeks, but the time you spend recovering at home depends on the weight loss procedure you have along with your job. If your job is labor-intensive, especially if you must lift objects weight more than 25 lbs., you will have to wait at least six weeks before you return to work.

Your New Lifestyle Habits

Several weeks after surgery, you should be able to tolerate soft foods and slowly increase your diet intake. As the healing process continues, you should avoid all foods that are not easily chewed. About a month following the surgery, your doctor may allow you to increase exercise activities, including swimming and low-impact aerobics.

During the recovery period, you can contact our bariatric nutritionist directly through phone calls and emails to address questions and concerns. You may also want to try Facebook support groups to learn how to adjust to new eating habits and get advice on other issues that will help you succeed in your healthier lifestyle.

The First Few Months

Many patients can start eating somewhat firmer solid foods approximately eight weeks after surgery. You should begin to notice significant weight loss by this point, motivating you to continue with the recommended diet and exercise to lose excess weight. You will slowly be able to increase your exercise routine per your doctor's recommendations.

During recovery time, patients can keep in direct contact with a nutritionist through phone calls, emails, and Facebook to address questions and concerns.

You will need regular follow-up visits with your healthcare provider for the rest of your life for blood tests to check whether you have developed vitamin deficiencies requiring additional nutritional supplements or developing other health problems. At about three months, you may be able to resume a regular diet with a few restrictions, such as eating small portions and avoiding foods high in fat and sugar.

Long-Term Success and Health

The most successful bariatric surgery patients are committed to a complete lifestyle change. How much weight you lose depends on your commitment. For your long-term health and weight loss success, follow the diet recommended by your doctor and nutritionist. Exercise should also be a part of your daily routine to avoid weight regain and help eliminate additional health problems. You'll also need lifetime follow-up appointments to ensure your health.

Reach Out Today to learn more about bariatric surgeries and recovery time

Knowing what to expect in the recovery process after bariatric surgery is essential to educate yourself on your treatment options. For more information regarding weight loss surgery recovery, contact the Tijuana Bariatric Center today by calling 1-800-970-0577 for a complimentary consultation.