Life After Bariatric Surgery
Waking Up in the Recovery Room
You may not feel much different in the days following the surgery. Even though you have taken the first step major step, you may find yourself wondering if anything has changed. You can expect to have some discomfort and feel the effects of the surgery in the recovery room. Unfortunately, you may feel worse before you begin to feel better as these effects can last for several days.
Short-Term Risks
All abdominal operations carry the risks including bleeding, infection in the incision, blood clots, lung problems (pneumonia, pulmonary embolisms), strokes or heart attacks, anesthetic complications, and blockage or obstruction of the intestines. These risks are greater in morbidly obese patients. You need to be aware that some surgical side effects, such as a blood clot can be life-threatening. The risk of death during bariatric surgery is less than 1 percent. Click here to read more about the risk of gastric bypass surgery and lap band surgery.
Gastric bypass surgery and lap band surgery is not a quick fix. It is part of a lifestyle change that will help you achieve your goal of weight loss. The difference in your body makes it physically easier to adjust your eating and lifestyle habits after surgery. Fortunately, you will not have to go through the recovery process alone. A team of professionals and other patients will be there to support you along the way. Positive changes in your body, weight, and health will occur, but you must be patient throughout the recovery process.
Voices of Experience
Read and watch past gastric bypass surgery and lap band surgery patients speak about their success.
Post Surgery Diet
The changes made to your gastrointestinal tract will require permanent changes in your eating habits that must be followed for successful weight loss. Postsurgery dietary guidelines will be discussed with you before your surgery date.
What could happen if I don’t follow one or more of the dietary guidelines?
The dietary guidelines are designed to help improve the chance of long-term success in your weight loss. However, if you do not follow the guidelines, you may not lose or maintain the loss of the estimated 60 to 80 percent in excess weight. You may also experience complications such as vomiting, diarrhea, or malnutrition after surgery.
How soon will I be able to walk?
Soon after surgery, you will be required to get up and move around. You may be asked to walk or stand at the bedside the night of surgery and take several walks the next day or soon after. You may be able to care for all your personal needs upon leaving the hospital, but you will still need help with shopping, lifting, and transportation.
How soon can I drive?
You should not drive until you can move quickly and alertly and have stopped taking medications associated with your surgery. This typically takes seven to 14 days after surgery.
When can I go back to my normal activity level?
Many patients return to normal levels of activity within six weeks of surgery but your ability to resume presurgery levels of activity depends on your physical condition, the nature of the activity, and the type of bariatric surgery you had.
