Bariatric surgery is increasingly becoming an option for weight management in people who are obese. However, studies have now shown that the surgery in itself may not be enough to manage weight on a long-term basis. Some proactive lifestyle changes and making an effort to get more physically fit should become an integral part of everyday life and the ongoing journey.

Recovery in the Hospital After Surgery

After the surgery, a patient usually has to stay in the hospital for a time span that may vary from two to five days. During this period, the patient’s vitals are closely monitored and pain management is undertaken. Some amount of pain and discomfort is normal and expected, especially at the sites of incision, but excessive pain needs immediate attention and intervention.

The patient’s ability to comfortably perform normal body movements and functions like coughing, sitting up, moving the legs, and rolling on the sides while lying flat on the bed is checked. As long as the pain and discomfort persists, painkillers and other therapeutic drugs are used.

The patient is put under the care of a dietician and a therapist who work closely with the surgeon and a team of doctors to assist in quick recovery. Recovery after laparoscopic bariatric surgery is relatively speedy, and most patients can even get back behind the wheels within a fortnight. But they are advised to desist if they are still under pain-management medication.

Patients can also return to work in two to two and a half weeks if no major symptoms or pain relapse are experienced.

Recovery at Home

Before you are discharged, hospitals recommend that you discuss the diet with your dietician and discuss your home environment with the aftercare team at your hospital. They can tell you about your specific needs based on their assessment. You will have to be careful while walking up the stairs or going to the bathroom.

You shouldn’t bend down much. Start walking over small distances after you are discharged and try to walk at least four times every day with breaks in between each. By the end of the first week, you should be able to walk for 35 to 40 minutes without exhaustion and trauma.

Things You Should Avoid

  • Lifting heavy weights is strictly prohibited in the immediate aftermath of the surgery. Give yourself at least two to three months of recovery time before you start lifting weights.
  • Don’t sit or stand for long periods. Don’t stand without movement for long; instead, you should walk slowly.

Things You Should Do

  • Don’t miss appointments with your doctor. Follow the prescriptions and lifestyle advice given to you by your doctor.
  • Exercises start in the hospital itself after the bariatric surgery. A patient is made to sit up, dangle their feet, walk, cough, and take deep breaths that help in circulation of blood and in loosening any secretions in your throat or lung. After you return home, you will still have to follow the routine. The nature of exercises may change, but you will have to do them every day. Go for frequent walks and slowly start with meditation and deep breathing exercises. Try aerobics and slowly Pilates, but don’t overexert.
  • Keep your body hydrated.
  • Follow a proper diet and take your medications.

Think positive and control your urge to have junk food. Stop smoking and avoid excessive drinking. Start enjoying your life, enjoy your exercises, enjoy your work, and try to socialize. See it as an opportunity to start life all over again.

Monitor and maintain your BMI at the level your doctor has suggested, and do your best to live a life without stress and anxiety; this kind of lifestyle is the key to good health.

Arrange a Consultation

Smart Dimensions™ is committed to helping patients lose weight and keep it off. If you’re interested in making a positive change in your life, contact our office and schedule a weight-loss consultation.