Though having bariatric surgery is a significant milestone in any weight loss journey, there is still much to be done in order to thrive after surgery, ensuring a smooth recovery period and setting the stage for healthy lifestyle changes. At RUMC, the Bariatric and Metabolic team ensures every patient knows what to expect after surgery and provides continual comprehensive support. Here is an idea of what you can expect after your surgery.
Diet and nutrition after Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery
- Nutrition and diet: After your procedure, the bariatric surgery team will provide you with a comprehensive dietary check list to follow for the first month after surgery and beyond. Support will be provided by a registered dietician. Vitamin and mineral supplements will need to be taken daily for life following surgery to help prevent nutritional deficiencies. Patients should pay special attention to their fluid intake to ensure they stay hydrated, taking small sips slowly throughout the day. Protein supplements may be needed to meet protein goals. More information can be found under the Post-op Diet Tab.
- Medications: Many obese patients must take medications to deal with the medical problems associated with obesity, including diabetes or high blood pressure. Often times, these medications may need to be decreased or discontinued as weight loss continues. After surgery, the patient will follow up with their primary medical doctors or prescribing provider to evaluate if their medications need adjustment.
- Fitness: Bariatric procedures can assist with weight loss, but they are not a replacement for regular, healthy physical activity. Walking is often recommended as an initial starting point during the early recovery period. Over time, activity can be increased, and other activity incorporated, at the discretion of the surgeon. Patients are typically advised to wait at least 6 weeks after surgery to begin strength training, and other strenuous activity, ensuring the body is properly healed. Follow your surgeon’s guidance to develop a fitness program that suits your body’s capabilities.
- Mental health: Bariatric surgery can be life-changing-not just physically but emotionally, too. While many people feel happier and healthier after surgery, it is also common to face emotional ups and downs during the journey. Having a strong support system can make a big difference, including attending RUMC’s monthly support group. Additional support is available at RUMC. If you find yourself struggling, a surgeon, psychologist, or therapist should be able to help.
- Weight plateaus: As you begin to lose weight, your body weight will naturally plateau; it is just what the human body is designed to do. But do not let these plateaus discourage you from further weight loss efforts, because they are a fundamental part of the journey to a healthy weight.
- Sleep and stress: Proper weight management is difficult without a healthy sleep pattern. Post-surgery, try to sleep regularly and adequately, giving your body time to heal, regulate hunger hormones, gain the proper energy to remain motivated to stick to your new lifestyle. Additionally, be sure to manage stress, which has been found to increase emotional eating, slow metabolism, and promote fat storage. Stress management options often include exercise, meditation, limiting caffeine/screen time, and attending support groups.
- Smoking and drinking: Many surgeons request that patients quit smoking or chewing tobacco prior to surgery to help promote healing and prevent complications. Likewise, avoiding alcohol is another common recommendation, as it is high in calories, low in nutritional value and absorbed quicker into the blood stream after weight loss surgery.
- Pregnancy: Experts typically recommend avoiding pregnancy for 18 – 24 months after surgery, allowing for ample time to adapt to their new lifestyle, achieve a solid nutritional foundation and reach a healthy weight.
- Post op Complications: As with any medical procedure, complications can arise after weight loss surgery. Potential issues will be discussed with your surgeon and may include constipation, dehydration, nausea, and vomiting. Any new or concerning symptoms should be discussed with the surgeon.
- Follow-up care: Regular checkups and blood work is essential after bariatric surgery. These appointments provide an opportunity to monitor weight loss progress, assist with meeting health goals, and identify potential issues early.
