Life After Surgery

Weight loss surgery is a highly effective way to lose weight, but it still comes with its ups and downs. Undergoing a surgical procedure designed to change the look and feel of your body is significant. There are many changes that may affect you as you recover. Below is information you need to know about life after bariatric surgery.

Recovery

The recovery process begins immediately and can last from four to six weeks after your procedure, depending on the type of surgery. Most patients stay in the hospital one or two days after a procedure and remain home for three to four weeks before returning to work or other regular activities. Patient may be cleared to participate in full exercise within four to six weeks. Pain levels differ, but most patients are able to stay comfortable with prescription and over-the-counter pain medications.

Weight Loss

Weight loss varies greatly, but most patients begin to start losing weight immediately following surgery. In the first three months, patients will lose approximately 20 to 30 percent of excess weight, and 60 percent in the first six months to two years. In order to maintain weight loss, a proper diet and regular exercise are required.

Diet

After bariatric surgery, dietary habits must be changed permanently. Patients are urged to maintain high protein, low carb diets with restricted use of sugar or alcohol. Some procedures, especially those that affect nutrient absorption, may require extensive use of vitamins and supplements. Patients are encouraged to eat slowly, take small bites, and chew food thoroughly. Beverages should not be consumed with food.

Relationships

Bariatric surgery affects more than just your physical appearance. Losing extreme amounts of weight can be both emotionally and physically overwhelming. This may extend to personal relationships. Patients are encouraged to seek counseling and help from support groups in order to ensure the physical changes of weight loss do not interfere with your interpersonal connections.

Returning to Daily Life

Recovery is an individual process, so resuming normal activity likely will not happen on the same timeline for everyone. Most patients are able to return to work or school within a few weeks without prolonged discomfort. 

Birth Control and Pregnancy

Pregnancy is possible after bariatric surgery. Due to the hormonal changes following surgery, patients are encouraged to use an effective form of birth control for the first 12 to 18 months, even if conception was not possible before a bariatric procedure. Patients are encouraged to wait at least two years before trying to conceive.