Bariatric Surgery Recovery Tips

Weight-loss journeys are often lifelong struggles. Diet and exercise, while the best and most efficient ways to lose weight, don’t always work for everyone. In those cases, many people turn to bariatric surgery to help them lose weight.

Bariatric surgery is a major surgery that will require lifestyle changes, but before you can continue your weight-loss journey, you’ll need to navigate successful recovery post-surgery. 

Bariatric Surgery Recovery 

Recovering from bariatric surgery should not be viewed in terms of how to do so quickly—the goal should be a complete, healthy recovery. Each bariatric surgery patient recovers differently, but there are a few tips every patient can utilize.

Bariatric Surgery Recovery Diet Tips

Based on your nutritional needs, your doctor or surgical team will help you plan your diet post-surgery. During your recovery in the hospital, you’ll stick to clear liquids to keep you hydrated and avoid irritating your stomach. In the days following surgery, you’ll move on to a full liquid diet, then a soft foods diet, before returning to a regular diet.

It’s important to remember your stomach will be able to hold much less food following surgery, so portions should be small and nutrient dense. Eat slowly and chew your meals thoroughly to avoid upsetting your stomach. Protein is extremely important following surgery, but avoid meats that are harder to digest, like steak. 

When it comes to drinking, avoid carbonated beverages, chewing ice, and drinking through a straw, all of which can introduce air into your stomach pouch. Do not drink anything 30 minutes before meals or 30 minutes after meals.

Bariatric Surgery Recovery Exercise Tips

Your ability to exercise post-surgery will be limited, but you will be able to do some light activity right away. Walking is one of the best and least-strenuous post-surgery activities. It’s important to know your limits and not push your body too far after surgery. Likely, you will begin with small walks around the house until you feel comfortable walking about the neighborhood. Start with 10 minutes a day and work toward 150 minutes a week.

Exercise can also speed and assist recovery. Rotating your ankles while sitting or laying down can help maintain blood flow to your feet and legs while breathing exercises can lower your blood pressure and improve your relaxation. 

It’s vital to listen to your body during exercise. Especially if you’re new to working out, make sure you understand the difference between muscle soreness and pain. 

If you are considering bariatric surgery, it’s important to find a compassionate, experienced partner. Wellstar Bariatrics offers multiple options for bariatric procedures, and we are dedicated to supporting patients in any way we can during their recovery. Learn more about our bariatric program on our website, or get in touch today.