Your gastric bypass surgery recovery is just as important as the surgical procedure itself. A successful recovery will ensure that you regain—and maintain—optimal health in the weeks after surgery as well as the months after surgery.
How long does it take to recover from bariatric surgery, and what are the best ways to help your body heal during this crucial phase? What follows is a comprehensive roadmap that we’ve compiled for you to refer to following post bariatric surgery.
Gastric bypass surgery involves a surgeon dividing the stomach into two parts, which limits the amount of food your stomach can hold as well as reduces the number of calories your body can absorb.
Cleveland Clinic states that you may qualify for gastric bypass surgery “if you have been diagnosed with class III obesity; have a BMI of at least 35 with at least one obesity-related condition; have obesity-related type 2 diabetes. Because of its positive effects on blood sugar regulation, you may qualify for gastric bypass surgery to help manage your type 2 diabetes, if it’s unmanaged and you have a BMI of 30 or higher.”
After creating a small pouch near the top of the stomach, the surgeon carefully attaches the lower portion of the intestine to the newly created stomach pouch and then connects the upper portion of the small intestine further down. Bypassing the larger lower pouch makes it possible for food and drink to enter the small upper pouch; this makes gastric bypass surgery an effective weight loss surgery.
Roux en y gastric bypass rearranges the digestive system and alters the production of hormones related to hunger and fullness. By reducing the absorption of calories and nutrients—as well as making you feel full and not as hungry—this complex surgical procedure requires significant lifestyle changes, including dietary modifications and regular exercise, for long-term success after gastric bypass.
Please note that gastric sleeve is a slightly different procedure that involves the surgeon producing a tube-shaped stomach (sleeve) by removing a portion of your stomach. According to UPMC’s article on Gastric Bypass Versus Gastric Sleeve Surgery, this procedure does pose a lower risk for dumping syndrome and “patients should expect to lose weight at a slower, steadier rate.”
Both procedures are what we call “open surgery,” which means they involve making incisions in the abdominal area and, therefore, require a few weeks of recovery time at home.
Whether you choose gastric sleeve surgery or gastric bypass surgery, keep in mind that gastric bypass surgery recovery and recovery from gastric sleeve surgery will involve committing to your doctor’s recommended diet and exercise guidelines, and it will be a good idea to follow all of them as closely and carefully as possible.
Gastric bypass surgery recovery and gastric sleeve recovery require immediate post-operative care, which will include pain management; fluid management; nausea and vomiting management; wound care; and regular monitoring of your vital signs. After your surgery is complete, you’ll begin consuming a liquid diet and be encouraged to get plenty of rest so your body can heal and your vsg recovery can commence.
You can expect to remain in the hospital for up to three days post-surgery. Before you are discharged, you will be given specific, detailed instructions that will clearly explain the steps you need to take and instructions you need to follow regarding diet, exercise, wound care, and more.
Sleeve gastrectomy post op and gastric bypass post op are two types of open surgery so, again, your patience during the recovery phase both inside and outside the hospital is paramount.
During the initial weeks post bariatric surgery, pain and discomfort are usually managed through a mix of medications and non-pharmacological approaches, such as utilizing over-the-counter pain relievers, applying ice packs, elevating your body, and getting adequate rest every day.
Incision and wound care will help prevent infection and promote healing during vsg recovery. For instance, you’ll need to keep your incisions clean and dry; change your dressings regularly; monitor your wounds for signs of infection; wear loose-fitting clothing; and avoid putting excess strain on your incisions.
Since the first few weeks of post-surgery mark such a critical phase of the healing process, you’ll need to consistently monitor for complications following post bariatric surgery. These may include—but are not limited to—fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, swelling, redness, and drainage from your incision site.
When it comes to transitioning from liquid to solid foods after gastric bypass surgery, do so gradually. Once liquid dieting is over and it’s time to reintroduce solid foods, start with soft foods such as bananas and applesauce. Always remember to listen to your body and eat slowly.
The amount of food your stomach can hold is not going to be the same amount it once held; if it helps, picture your small intestine as a narrow tunnel through which food and drink now travel way more swiftly than before so you can feel full faster. The transition from liquid to solid foods may be challenging at first, but this transition is a big part of recovering from stomach surgery.
Your body is counting on you to stay hydrated throughout your gastric bypass recovery. Fluid intake will prevent dehydration and ensure proper nutrient absorption. Make it a goal to drink at least 64 ounces of fluid per day in the form of water, clear broths, and unsweetened beverages. Take extra care to avoid sugary drinks, caffeine, alcohol, and high-calorie beverages.
Post op gastric bypass will require you to take vitamin and mineral supplements so your body can compensate for reduced nutrient absorption. A bariatric multivitamin that includes iron, calcium, and vitamin D is typically recommended, but your doctor may also recommend additional supplements that are personalized to your needs regarding vitamins and minerals.
If your sleeve gastrectomy recovery or gastric bypass surgery recovery is going as well as you had anticipated, you can expect to safely resume physical activity post bariatric surgery, but take it easy to start. We suggest increasing the duration and intensity of your exercise routine over time so your body can adjust and you can plan to meet all your weight loss goals.
Recommended exercises for gastric bypass patients include low-impact activities; start with short walks and aim to exercise at least three times a week, gradually increasing your time and distance. An article published by UCSF Health titled “Recovering from Bariatric Surgery,” notes that swimming is another ideal form of exercise post bariatric surgery: “If you have specific problems with your weight bearing joints (such as the ankles, knees and hips), you can perform water exercises once your abdominal incisions have healed, typically three to four weeks post-op.”
Please avoid strenuous activity and speak to your doctor if there’s a specific exercise you want to incorporate into your exercise routine post gastric bypass surgery so your doctor can offer insights into how you can safely and confidently proceed.
Strenuous activity should be avoided in the first six to eight weeks post bariatric surgery. Slowly increase your activity levels; your body needs time to heal and recover so you can regain your strength and mobility as well as successfully incorporate healthy lifestyle habits into your life.
Be sure to set realistic goals so you can give yourself the sense of accomplishment and encouragement you need to make steady progress post bariatric surgery.
Adapting to a new eating routine after gastric bypass surgery requires patience, perseverance, and commitment. Small, frequent meals and snacks are recommended when it’s time to begin eating food so you can achieve the results you desire. Eating food that’s sugary, salty, and processed is not a good idea when it comes to the long-term success of your gastric bypass surgery.
Emotional and psychological support after gastric bypass surgery is another crucial part of the roadmap to a successful gastric bypass surgery recovery. That’s because gastric bypass surgery and post op gastric sleeve can bring about significant changes in your appearance.
These changes can influence how you see yourself, plus go as far as to influence your relationships and your lifestyle. Talking to a trusted family member, friend, licensed therapist, or counselor can help you navigate these changes and cope with any challenges that you may encounter.
Managing long-term health after gastric bypass surgery requires regular follow-up appointments with your doctor. He or she will monitor your progress and address any concerns as they relate to recovering from stomach surgery.
Recovery after gastric sleeve and post op gastric sleeve after care does involve you participating in the recovery process. Playing an active role in your post-op care is vital for a successful and healthy recovery for gastric sleeve post op and gastric bypass post op.
Dumping syndrome and nutritional deficiencies are two of the most common potential complications of gastric bypass surgery, but both can be managed with careful monitoring and lifestyle changes.
Dumping syndrome is characterized by experiencing nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and/or sweating after eating. Dumping syndrome can be avoided by eating small, frequent meals and avoiding sugary drinks and processed foods. Nutritional deficiencies can be addressed by taking vitamins and minerals in the form of supplements.
Blood clots are a serious risk after gastric bypass surgery, but they can be prevented by getting up and moving around when your doctor gives you the go-ahead, wearing compression stockings, drinking plenty of fluids, and taking blood thinners if they have been prescribed to you.
Support groups and counseling can provide essential emotional and psychological support that gastric bypass patients need during their weight loss surgery recovery time. When you have people by your side to help you navigate the challenges of gastric bypass surgery and gastric sleeve surgery, you will appreciate being part of such a supportive environment.
Support groups and counseling during recovery enable you to share your experiences, learn from others who have gone through the surgery, and receive encouragement and guidance as the days, weeks, and months pass.
Sustaining weight loss long-term after gastric bypass surgery requires a lifelong commitment to healthy eating, physical activity, and regular follow-up care. By making these lifestyle changes, you can achieve and maintain your ideal body weight.
Coping with body image changes after gastric bypass surgery can be challenging, but it is important to remember that your new body will take some getting used to. Be patient with yourself and give yourself plenty of time to adjust to your new appearance. Most importantly, love yourself for who you are and who you aspire to be.
At Renew Bariatrics, our expert bariatric surgeons have helped patients around the world lose weight, improve their health, and gain a new lease on life. It is our pleasure to share with you these patient testimonials and outcomes so you can see for yourself what makes gastric bypass surgery worthwhile.
The typical gastric bypass recovery time is between six to eight weeks, but it can vary from person to person. During this time, you will need to follow a strict diet and exercise plan, plus avoid strenuous activity. After six to eight weeks, most patients will be able to resume their normal activities and begin to witness the results they’ve been envisioning.
If any questions or concerns arise, however, please contact Renew Bariatrics as soon as possible so those issues can be addressed and you can continue your successful road to gastric bypass surgery recovery. Should you have any questions about gastric bypass surgery recovery and the superior bariatric care we provide at our clinic in Mexico, you can reach us by calling 844-736-3963 or by completing and submitting the contact form on our website.
Gas pains after gastric sleeve are rather common. These gas pains can last anywhere from two to four weeks, but that time frame can vary. Since your bariatric care recovery journey is unique, you may need to speak to your doctor about this concern so it can be properly and promptly addressed.
To best manage the weight loss surgery recovery process, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully, including adhering to your diet and exercise plan, taking all prescribed medications, and keeping all your scheduled follow-up appointments. Getting plenty of rest and avoiding a premature return to work are also important.
The keys to successful recovery from gastric sleeve surgery are following your doctor’s instructions, eating a healthy diet, making time for regular exercise, and keeping all your scheduled follow-up appointments. Gastric sleeve after care helps ensure that you have healed as expected and that you are well on your way to experiencing all the benefits of gastric sleeve surgery.
Please carefully review the pre-surgery diet and instructions that you were provided by Renew Bariatrics. If you have any questions, please reach out to us immediately so we can address them and help you feel fully prepared for your surgery. We’re here to help—and always happy to!
Pack comfortable and loose-fitting clothing, toiletries, your insurance card and ID, and a list of your medications. It’s also a good idea to pack comfortable slip-on shoes that you can walk around in, plus chargers for your electronic devices since you will be staying in the hospital for a few days post bariatric surgery.
Setting up your home for post-op recovery from gastric sleeve surgery creates an environment conducive to healing comfortably and safely. Make sure that you have easy access to food, drinks, and medications. And by all means, if there are family members or friends who are willing to help you during your weight loss surgery recovery, it’s always okay to ask for their help during your recovery time.
Immediate post-surgery diet and fluid intake after gastric sleeve surgery typically consist of clear liquids—think water and sugar-free broth. Please be sure to take small sips of fluids throughout the day so you can stay hydrated, and avoid sugary drinks and caffeine. The clearer your beverages, the better!
Pain relief and medication management in the first 48 hours after gastric sleeve surgery is typically accomplished with intravenous (IV) pain medications. You may also be prescribed oral pain medications to take home after you are discharged from the hospital. Always check the dosage before taking these medications.
Recovering from gastric sleeve surgery and gastric bypass surgery means that you’ll need lots of rest. Try to get between seven to eight hours of sleep each night, and elevate your head and upper body when you sleep to reduce swelling and discomfort. We also recommend sleeping on your back or stomach so you’re not putting any pressure on your incisions.
There’s no shame in taking naps throughout the day during gastric sleeve aftercare. The more relaxing and comfortable the environment you create for yourself, and the more you let your body rest, the shorter your weight loss surgery recovery time should be. If you are having trouble resting or sleeping after gastric sleeve surgery, talk to your doctor or give us a call so we can offer you some helpful personalized guidance.
How long does it take to recover from bariatric surgery? The answer is that the recovery time for bariatric surgery varies, but you can expect to remain in the hospital for up to three days, return to work within three to four weeks, and make a full recovery within eight weeks.
All of this, of course, depends upon whether you have undergone gastric bypass or gastric sleeve surgery, as they are two different open surgery procedures. Your recovery time also depends on how well you have followed the guidance and instructions provided by your surgeon and care team. Our team at Renew Bariatrics wishes you a full and successful weight loss surgery recovery so you can begin enjoying the incredible results of gastric bypass surgery or gastric sleeve surgery that are sure to change your life for the better. Thank you for placing your trust in us.
Languages Spoken: English, Spanish, French
Hours: Open 24/7
5
Copyright © 2024 Renew Bariatrics, Inc. – Proudly based in Mexico with offices in Tijuana and Cancun.
*Individual results may vary, please refer to our disclaimer page. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information.
