What to do after bariatric surgery?
Written by: Laura Arantegui / Date: 12-27-23 / Read 3 Minutes
Bariatric surgery, also known as weight loss surgery, is an important step in the journey to a healthier life for many people with obesity. After surgery, it is crucial to follow certain steps and make lifestyle changes to ensure good long-term results. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with essential information on what to do after bariatric surgery.
Table of Contents
- 1. Importance of an effective bariatric surgery postoperative course
- 2. Lifestyle changes after bariatric surgery.
- 3. Possible complications and how to handle them
- 4. Supplements that can help you in your postoperative period after bariatric surgery
- 5. Frequently Asked Questions
Importance of an effective bariatric surgery postoperative course
After bariatric surgery, your medical team, which includes surgeons, dieticians-nutritionists, endocrinologists, nurses and other health professionals, will provide you with specific guidelines for your recovery. For a correct evolution, it is essential to follow the recommendations that include new dietary habits, the practice of physical activity and the intake of nutritional supplements, among others.
Your medical team will schedule regular follow-up visits to evaluate your progress and address any complications. These visits are critical to make sure you are on the right track toward your weight loss and health goals.
Lifestyle changes after bariatric surgery
Adequate food and nutrition
One of the most significant parts of life after bariatric surgery is the modification of your eating habits. Initially, you will be given strict liquid diet guidelines and then soft diets before returning to a solid diet, progressively and monitoring your tolerance to certain foods. It is important to eat small portions and chew your food well. Avoid foods high in calories and fat, and opt for foods rich in protein.
Hydration is essential after bariatric surgery. Drink water regularly throughout the day, but avoid drinking fluids with meals, as this can cause discomfort and fill you up too quickly making it difficult to eat.
Physical activity and exercise
As you recover, it is vital that you begin to include physical activity in your daily routine, with aerobic as well as strength and endurance exercises. Start with short walks and gradually increase the intensity and duration. Physical activity will help accelerate weight loss and maintain overall health.
Emotional support and mental care
Bariatric surgery can have a significant emotional impact. Don't hesitate to seek emotional support through support groups, therapy, or talking with friends and family. Adjusting to a new lifestyle can be challenging, and emotional support is essential for long-term success.
Goals and achievements
Set achievable goals for your weight loss and overall health. Don't compare yourself to others, as everyone is different. Focus on your own progress and well-being.
As you reach your goals, celebrate your accomplishments. Recognize your efforts and reward yourself in a healthy way. This can keep you motivated on your journey.
Possible complications and how to handle them
Your medical team will schedule regular follow-up visits to evaluate your progress and address any complications. These visits are critical to make sure you are on the right track toward your weight loss and health goals.
In addition to follow-up visits with your medical team, it is important to be aware of changes in your health. Watch for signs of nutritional deficiencies, digestive problems or side effects from surgery and report them to your doctor. Some symptoms that may come to your attention include: hair loss, tiredness, fatigue, gastroesophageal reflux, etc.
In summary, bariatric surgery is a valuable tool for weight loss and health improvement in people with obesity. However, long-term success depends largely on how well you follow the recommendations of your medical team and make lifestyle changes. With patience, commitment and support, you can achieve a healthier and more satisfying life after bariatric surgery. Remember that this guide is informative and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult with your medical team for personalized guidance on your journey to health and weight loss after bariatric surgery.
Bibliographic references
1. Kassir R, Debs T, Blanc P, Gugenheim J, Ben Amor I, Boutet C, Tiffet O. Complications of bariatric surgery: Presentation and emergency management. Int J Surg. 2016 Mar;27:77-81. doi: 10.1016/j.ijsu.2016.01.067. Epub 2016 Jan 22. PMID: 26808323.
2. Bettini S, Belligoli A, Fabris R, Busetto L. Diet approach before and after bariatric surgery. Rev Endocr Metab Disord. 2020 Sep;21(3):297-306. doi: 10.1007/s11154-020-09571-8. Erratum in: Rev Endocr Metab Disord. 2020 Dec;21(4):449. doi: 10.1007/s11154-020-020-09583-4. PMID: 32734395; PMCID: PMC7455579.
3. Tabesh MR, Maleklou F, Ejtehadi F, Alizadeh Z. Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Prescription of Supplements in Pre- and Post-bariatric Surgery Patients: a Practical Guideline. Obes Surg. 2019 Oct;29(10):3385-3400. doi: 10.1007/s11695-019-04112-y. Erratum in: Obes Surg. 2020 Feb;30(2):793. doi: 10.1007/s11695-019-04323-3. PMID: 31367987.
Supplements that can help you in your postoperative period after bariatric surgery
Frequently Asked Questions about what to do after bariatric surgery
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