Tips for a Smooth Recovery after Weight Loss Surgery

Tips for a Smooth Recovery after Weight Loss Surgery

Read time: 3.25 minutes

TL;DR

  • Taking steps before and after surgery can help you easily transition through your recovery with the best possible results.
  • Have clothes in multiple sizes to help get you through the transition period following your weight loss surgery.
  • Purchase the multivitamins recommended by your surgeon to ensure you are receiving all of the nutrients your body needs.
  • Reduce your fears by learning everything you can about your procedure.
  • Post-surgery, remember that your decisions and actions make a big difference in your recovery and success.
  • Consistent diet and exercise, along with positive support from family and friends can help to make your weight loss journey easier and more successful.

Weight loss surgery is a big decision and requires major changes in your daily lifestyle and habits. If you do decide to move forward with weight loss surgery, you’ll likely face challenges during recovery and may even second guess your decision or feel like it’s not worth making the necessary changes. Don’t worry — you can do this, and we’ll be there to support you throughout your entire weight loss journey. Taking steps before and after surgery can help you easily transition through your recovery with the best possible results.

Prepare Before Surgery

A smooth recovery begins before surgery. Get ready in the weeks and days leading up to your procedures with these tips:

  • Pack comfortable clothes – You’ll be sore when you wake up from surgery, so pack comfortable clothes and shoes that you can easily slip on. Avoid anything with zippers, buckles or buttons.
  • Gather transition clothes – In the months following surgery, you’ll likely go through several sizes of clothing. Gather a few clothes in multiple sizes to get you through this transitional period.
  • Purchase multivitamins – Your newly reduced stomach size can make it difficult for you to get all of the nutrients your body needs. Purchase the vitamins and supplements recommended by your surgeon beforehand.
  • Stock up on medical supplies – Make sure you have the basic medical supplies you’ll need during recovery, such as cotton balls, gauze pads and over-the-counter pain medication. Ask your doctor for any additional recommendations.
  • Find a helper – Make arrangements for help during healing; make sure you’ll have help with things such as household chores, running errands and cooking for at least the first week of recovery.
  • Read about surgery – Learn all you can about bariatric surgery and what to expect. This will help to reduce your nervousness from unknowns and “what-ifs.”

Boost Your Recovery After Surgery

Following surgery, your decisions and actions make a big difference in your recovery. Help maximize progress with these tips:

  • Listen to your body – Learn to recognize the signals your body sends, and only eat when you’re hungry and stop when you’re full.
  • Stay active – You’ll be limited physically following weight loss surgery, but don’t sit around all day. Follow your doctor’s instructions for physical activity and gradually increase your activity level.
  • Stay hydrated – Drinking enough water is crucial, but difficult with a smaller stomach. Track the amount you drink at first to make sure you get plenty of fluids.
  • Follow your diet – Pay attention to the post-op diet your doctor recommends and follow it carefully. Don’t give yourself the option to cheat.
  • Avoid problem foods – Certain foods are likely to cause difficulties during recovery, so avoid excess sugar, fat, carbonation and alcohol.
  • Prepare for plateau – Even with a great diet and exercise routine post-surgery, you’re likely to hit a weight loss plateau. Make a plan to deal with disappointments and kick-start progress again.
  • Be realistic – Set realistic weight loss goals and stick with them.
  • Go to support groups – Good support is an important part of post-surgery success. Groups are a great way to get support, build new friendships and have accountability.
  • Commit to change – Lifestyle change after weight loss surgery is crucial. Commit to lifelong healthier living and make changes that last.

Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery Right for You?

If you’re thinking about gastric sleeve surgery, there are a number of factors to consider such as the following:

  • Qualifying for surgery – Patients must have a BMI of more than 40 or a BMI of more than 35 with one or more obesity-related health conditions to qualify for weight loss surgery.
  • Cost – Dr. Borland is a nationally-recognized bariatric surgeon who specializes in affordable gastric sleeve surgery. He offers the procedure for $11,300.
  • Weight loss prior to surgery – Beginning your healthy lifestyle and starting to lose weight before surgery can help you avoid complications and set you up for successful weight loss post-surgery.
  • Preparation – An initial consultation begins the preparation process. This is followed by bloodwork and paperwork with your primary care doctor.

Weight loss surgery is a great way to kick start a healthier lifestyle when diet and exercise aren’t enough. Dr. Borland and his team are ready to support you throughout your journey. To learn more about bariatric surgery, contact our office to schedule your initial consultation.