Obesity is a serious health concern affecting over 40% of Americans, contributing to conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, sleep apnea, and certain cancers. For individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 35 or higher, weight-loss surgery may be necessary not just for appearance, but for survival. However, it’s important to understand that weight-loss surgery is just the beginning of a lifelong journey. Here are 7 key things you need to know about recovery and life after surgery:
1. Nerves Are Normal
It’s completely natural to feel anxious before and after surgery. “Anxiety is the norm,” says Dr. Jonathan Reich, a bariatric surgeon. Surgery is a significant step, but rest assured, your medical team will walk you through the process and address any concerns. From the procedure itself to the recovery process, knowing what to expect can help alleviate much of the fear.
2. Recovery Is Fast
One of the benefits of laparoscopic gastric sleeve surgery is its quick recovery time. “Most patients leave the hospital within 24 hours,” explains Dr. Dena Arumugam, a bariatric surgeon. Recovery at home typically takes two to four weeks, during which most people can resume light physical activities and return to work within a week.
3. Pain Is Minimal
While you may experience soreness at the incision sites, the pain is typically mild. “The stomach itself has no sensation, but the incisions may cause muscle pain for the first few days,” says Dr. Arumugam. Most discomfort is manageable and subsides as the body heals.
4. A Gradual Return to Solid Foods
Post-surgery, patients follow a progressive diet starting with liquids for about two weeks, followed by pureed foods, soft foods, and then regular foods. This gradual transition allows the stomach to heal. Dr. Arumugam recommends a diet high in protein and low in fat and carbs during the healing phase.
5. Changes in Appetite and Portion Sizes
After surgery, many patients experience a significant change in their appetite. “Before surgery, patients often report never feeling full,” says Dr. Reich. “After surgery, they feel satisfied after eating much smaller portions.” This change is partly due to the reduction in the hunger hormone ghrelin, which is released by the stomach.
6. Digestive Function Remains Unchanged
Although your appetite may decrease, your digestive system will still function as it did before surgery. Your bowel movements and the absorption of nutrients won’t change, but it’s important to take a daily multivitamin to ensure proper nutrition. Regular annual check-ups will help monitor your vitamin levels.
7. Rapid and Significant Weight Loss
Weight loss after surgery is rapid. Within the first month, patients can lose 20 to 30 pounds, and around 10 pounds per month thereafter. By eight months, many patients lose up to 100 pounds. However, surgery is not a quick fix. As Dr. Arumugam emphasizes, success requires making long-term lifestyle changes, including healthy eating and increased physical activity.
Conclusion
Lifelong Commitment Weight-loss surgery can be life-changing, but it requires dedication to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The surgery provides a sustainable foundation for weight loss, but it is up to the patient to make lasting changes in diet and exercise habits to ensure long-term success.
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