Bariatric surgery is not a cosmetic procedure, and can be risky. It requires strict lifestyle changes, including eating healthy and exercising. For some, the benefits outweigh the risks, as most patients have trouble losing weight any other way. Severe obesity carries the risk of heart disease, diabetes and cancer, which can be deadly.
Once you have assessed the risks and benefits with your doctor, you may take the leap and go for the surgery. Whether you have open or laparoscopic surgery, you should know what to expect after the surgery.
Healing Time
Recovery from bariatric surgery can be a slow process, and takes patience. Pain and discomfort are to be expected, but can be managed with medications prescribed by your doctor. The exact healing time may vary, depending on which type of surgery you have. Open surgery takes longer to heal, but may be necessary in some cases. Laparoscopic surgery is less invasive, and healing time is faster. Many other factors are included as well, such as weight, age, general physical health and surgical complications. The healthier you are before surgery, the quicker recovery will be.
Physical Activity
One or two days after the surgery, you will be expected to do some leg exercises, as this will prevent blood clots from forming in the legs. You may be taking some short walks. Within the first few weeks, you'll gradually phase in exercise as recommended by your physician. Walking is less strenuous than most other activities, and is a great way to lead into exercise. Increase the amount of walking each day if possible, and be patient.
Diet
Chances are you won't be able to eat for a few days after surgery. You'll likely be given nutritional supplements and low-sugar liquids such as water, tea, sports drinks, broth and gelatin. After a few days, you'll move on to a soft diet, which means you can have soft, pureed foods that are easily digested. Portions will be small and you should only eat what you can. You may also drink nutritional shakes. Within a month, you should be able to eat solid food again, and you'll need to add plenty of protein to your diet to aid in healing. Be sure to stay hydrated by drinking small amounts frequently, and incorporate new foods slowly.
Therapy and Support
The strict lifestyle change can be difficult for those facing bariatric surgery, so your program may offer support groups and therapy. Remember that weight-loss surgery will take away a once-significant part of your life, and you may need help adapting and coping with your new lifestyle.
Complications
If you experience any of these complications, contact your doctor or surgeon immediately.
- Pain and swelling in your legs and feet
- Severe abdominal pain
- Bleeding or blood in the stool
- Pain or burning while urinating, or blood in the urine
- Fever or chills
- Vomiting or nausea
- Chest pain, shortness of breath
- Redness, swelling, and discharge at the incision site
Only 10% of patients have minor complications, and 5% have serious complications.
Most patients report an improvement in quality of life, and they lost 25 to 35 percent of their pre-surgery body weight within 2 years.
