How long does it take to recover from bariatric surgery?

Recovery in the Hospital. Patients spend an average of two to five days in the hospital following bariatric surgery, or longer if complications develop. Patients who undergo laparoscopic bariatric surgery usually have a shorter hospital stay.

What do bariatric patients need after surgery?

After any weight loss surgery, patients will need to take over the counter vitamins and minerals for life. Each bariatric surgery program will instruct patients on how much to take. These typically include: a multivitamin, Vitamin B12, Calcium, Vitamin D, and Iron.

What is the diet progression following bariatric surgery?

Diet Progression After Bariatric Surgery. Immediately following surgery, you will begin with a clear liquid diet. You may gradually start adding thicker liquids to your diet after you are discharged from the hospital. Two weeks following surgery, you may progress to blended and puréed foods.

What are the do’s and don’ts after bariatric surgery?

Don’t: Immediately Start Eating Regular Food Only consume clear liquids at room temperature. Stick to small volumes to avoid discomfort. Add mild liquids into your diet, such as milk (dairy or nondairy), broth, and yogurt. Begin introducing finely pureed foods into your diet.

What should I expect after bariatric surgery?

Depending on which laparoscopic bariatric surgery you choose to have performed, you can expect to stay in the hospital for 2 to 3 days after surgery. Full recovery to normal activities and eating can take anywhere from 3 to 5 weeks. Possible side effects include constipation, dumping syndrome, bloody stool,…

Which bariatric surgery procedure is best?

Most weight loss surgeries today are performed using minimally invasive techniques (laparoscopic surgery). The most common bariatric surgery procedures are gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, adjustable gastric band, and biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch. Each surgery has its own advantages and disadvantages.

What to expect before and after bariatric surgery?

Do not go back to work until you are ready. Your recovery time will vary, but it generally takes at least two weeks before people are ready to return to work after surgery. You should also take on only light duties when you first return to work. Walking around is good exercise, but do not do any heavy lifting.

Is bariatric surgery worth it?

For some patients, having a bariatric procedure, like gastric bypass, is worth it. For a committed patient, weight loss surgery is an effective tool for losing weight. It has also shown to be effective at reducing the impact of many obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, and heart disease.