Bariatric Surgery Post-Op Success Tips
Congratulations on your decision to undergo bariatric surgery with Advanced Surgical and Weight Loss Institute! We know that you have options for bariatric surgery in Melbourne, FL and are grateful that you have entrusted this life changing experience to us. Dr. Velarde is a board certified general surgeon who is also fellowship trained in both laparoscopic and bariatric surgery. Your experience with us will grant you the opportunity to change your life for the better. While any surgical procedure can seem daunting, there are things you can do as the patient to help yourself recover well from the operation. We want to see you not only succeed but thrive. You are on the path to health and wellness and here are some tips on how to start of your new life making great strides towards achieving your goals.
First and foremost, please follow any medical advice provided to you by Advanced Surgical and Weight Loss Institute. It is easy to search multiple websites seeking counsel on what you should do to recover but please trust our advice and follow the post-op instructions we provide. Your experience is uniquely your own and we have tailor made a plan to suit your individual needs.
This being said, there are general guidelines that bariatric patients are encouraged to follow.
Get Moving
According to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, patients are encouraged to begin exercising as soon as possible. Before you become overly concerned, they encourage short walks at an extremely easy pace beginning in the hospital post-op. Movement is highly encouraged after bariatric surgery and will help your body heal. These walks may be uncomfortable at first but are necessary for the healing to begin. As you recover fully, add more time to your walking routine and then shoot for the stars.
You also need to let your friends and family in on your new lifestyle. Let them know you plan on including a daily walk at first, and ask them to help keep you accountable. Studies have proven over and over that accountably leads to success.
Keep Your Diet in Check
You will be given a strict diet to follow immediately after surgery, and it is crucial that you follow this plan to the letter. Your body has undergone a transformation and it is necessary to fuel yourself in the best way possible in order to become accustomed to your new normal. The diet allows your body to become adjusted and heal. It also lets you become accustomed to the fact that your stomach can no longer handle the large amounts of food you are used to eating.
Liquids will be the first step after your operation. You will then move on to pureed foods. If you have adjusted well to this step and your body is healing, your doctor will prescribe a soft food diet. Again, after your body has regulated to this next step you will be allowed solid foods. According to the Mayo Clinic, this usually occurs around the 8 week mark.
Take a Multivitamin
If taking a multivitamin is not already a part of your daily routine, it will be now. Bariatric surgery patients will need the nutritional boost that a daily multivitamin provides and will be prescribed to take one, usually for life.
Some patients may need additional nutrients and will be prescribed other nutritional supplements of vitamins and minerals to ensure that they are receiving all the vital components necessary for a healthy body. This will be up to your physician so be sure to stay in close contact with them and follow their guidelines.