Thursday, 21 May 2015

Recover From Bariatric Surgery

Recover From Bariatric Surgery


Bariatric surgery, often referred to as weight loss surgery, is a major operation. In some cases it can take months to recover from it fully to a point where you feel normal again. Following your physician's instructions, taking care of yourself and recognizing potential complications early will help you recover from bariatric surgery with ease. Read on to learn recover from bariatric surgery.


Instructions


1. Take at least three weeks off work to dedicate to your recuperation from laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery. You will not be able to return to work for at least a month if you have open bariatric surgery. Your doctor will give you the all clear when you can start working again.


2. Expect to stay in the hospital for two to three days after laparoscopic bypass surgery and four to five days after open bypass surgery.


3. Eat only pureed or liquid foods for the beginning of your recovery. These foods will be easier for your new stomach pouch to handle.


4. Schedule and go to follow up appointments with your doctor. Your first one will be a week after surgery, and you will get your staples out, discuss any problems and start transitioning from liquid to solid foods. You doctor will schedule additional appointments as needed.


5. Chew solid foods thoroughly when you return to them. Your small stomach pouch cannot handle large pieces of food, and you will feel stomach discomfort if you don't chew correctly.


6. Consult a dietitian to create a new food plan that helps you get the nutrients you need within the limited amount of food you can safely eat. To recover well, you will need to change your whole idea of what you can and should eat. Your food plan should include vitamins and supplements because you won't be able to get everything you need from food alone.


7. Monitor incision sites for signs of infection such as skin discoloration or puss and clean wounds according to your doctors instruction.


8. Exercise everyday at least a little. Walking outside for 15 minutes is a great way to stay active and kick start your new healthier lifestyle. Walking will also help prevent post surgical blood clots that can occur from being sedentary.