There are numerous benefits that come from having bariatric surgery. But while the surgery itself is usually a fairly quick procedure, recovery takes time and requires a dedication to making changes to your lifestyle. These changes ultimately allow patients to lead healthier, happier, longer lives.
As your body heals, as with any surgery, you may experience discomfort and pain. Most people having a gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy stay in the hospital for one to two days. People having an adjustable gastric banding operation usually go home the same day. Patients usually resume normal activities in two to four weeks. However, the length of time to return to normal activities can vary from patient to patient. Some patients can return to work within a few days and see weight loss fairly soon after surgery. For others, a couple of months go by before they experience noticeable weight loss.
The quantity of food you can eat will change. Your new diet post-surgery will include smaller portions of healthy food options three times a day. A registered dietitian will work closely with you to help build a nutrition plan to get you on the road to a healthy future.
Bariatric surgery also changes how your body absorbs food, especially certain nutrients, including:
A physician and registered dietitian will work with you to ensure that your body is getting needed nutrients. Often taking a multi-vitamin and calcium supplement is enough, although some patients might need additional supplements to maintain wellness. The type and number of supplements you will need is related to the specific weight loss operation and the results of routine health monitoring after surgery.
Bariatric surgery is designed to help you lose weight and keep it off for good. But surgery is only part of the plan. To achieve results that will truly change their lives, patients must also commit to a fitness program in addition to a healthy diet.
As part of our comprehensive bariatric program, our exercise specialist and physiologist will design an activity plan to maximize your weight loss efforts.
We are excited to help you start your weight loss journey to healthier living. To start the conversation, please give us a call at one of the following locations:
