Bariatric surgery is a life-changing procedure that can help individuals achieve significant weight loss and improve overall health. However, the journey doesn’t end after the surgery. Life after bariatric surgery requires commitment to a new lifestyle and adherence to specific guidelines to ensure long-term success. At VIVE Bariatrics, we support our patients through every step of their weight loss journey, including the crucial postoperative phase. This article provides essential tips and sets realistic expectations for life after bariatric surgery.
What to Expect Immediately After Surgery
1. Hospital Stay
After bariatric surgery, most patients spend one to two days in the hospital. During this time, medical staff will monitor your recovery, manage pain, and help you start on a liquid diet.
2. Managing Discomfort
It’s normal to experience some discomfort, pain, and fatigue after surgery. Your medical team will provide pain medication and instructions on how to manage these symptoms at home.
3. Gradual Diet Progression
Your diet will progress from liquids to pureed foods, and then to soft foods over the first few weeks. This gradual progression helps your digestive system adjust to the changes. It’s crucial to follow your surgeon’s dietary guidelines carefully.
Essential Tips for Life After Bariatric Surgery
1. Follow Your Diet Plan
Adhering to your prescribed diet plan is vital for recovery and long-term success. Your dietitian will provide detailed instructions on portion sizes, types of foods to eat, and foods to avoid. Focus on high-protein foods, vegetables, and healthy fats while avoiding sugary and high-calorie foods.
2. Stay Hydrated
Drinking enough water is essential for overall health and weight loss. Aim for at least 64 ounces of water daily, but avoid drinking fluids with meals to prevent feeling overly full.
3. Take Your Vitamins and Supplements
Bariatric surgery can affect your body’s ability to absorb nutrients. To prevent deficiencies, you’ll need to take prescribed vitamins and supplements, including a multivitamin, calcium, vitamin D, and possibly others as recommended by your doctor.
4. Incorporate Physical Activity
Regular exercise is a key component of maintaining weight loss. Start with low-impact activities like walking or swimming and gradually increase the intensity and duration as you build strength and stamina. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week.
5. Attend Follow-Up Appointments
Regular follow-up visits with your surgeon and dietitian are crucial for monitoring your progress, addressing any complications, and making necessary adjustments to your diet and lifestyle.
6. Practice Mindful Eating
Pay attention to your body’s hunger and fullness cues. Eat slowly, chew thoroughly, and avoid distractions like TV or smartphones while eating. This helps prevent overeating and allows you to enjoy your meals.
7. Join a Support Group
Connecting with others who have undergone bariatric surgery can provide emotional support and valuable insights. Support groups, whether in-person or online, can help you stay motivated and share experiences and tips.
8. Be Patient and Kind to Yourself
Weight loss is a gradual process, and there will be ups and downs. Be patient with yourself, celebrate your achievements, and don’t be too hard on yourself if you encounter setbacks. Remember, this is a lifelong journey.
Managing Emotional and Psychological Changes
1. Understand the Emotional Impact
Bariatric surgery can bring about significant emotional and psychological changes. It’s common to experience a range of emotions, from excitement and happiness to anxiety and depression. Recognizing and understanding these feelings is an important part of the journey.
2. Seek Professional Help if Needed
If you find it challenging to cope with emotional changes, don’t hesitate to seek help from a mental health professional. Therapy can provide strategies for dealing with stress, body image issues, and other emotional challenges.
3. Adjusting to Your New Body
As you lose weight, your body will change, and it might take time to adjust to your new appearance. Give yourself time to adapt and focus on the positive aspects of your transformation.
Long-Term Expectations and Maintenance
1. Weight Loss Maintenance
Sustaining weight loss requires ongoing commitment to healthy eating, regular exercise, and lifestyle changes. Understand that weight loss may slow down over time, and occasional weight regain is possible. Staying consistent with your new habits is key to long-term success.
2. Monitoring Your Health
Keep track of your health with regular check-ups and lab tests. Monitoring your nutritional status and addressing any deficiencies promptly is crucial for maintaining overall health.
3. Skin Changes and Body Contouring
Significant weight loss can result in excess skin, which may cause discomfort or self-consciousness. If this becomes a concern, discuss options for body contouring surgery with your surgeon.
4. Embracing Your New Lifestyle
Adopting a new lifestyle after bariatric surgery involves more than just diet and exercise changes. Embrace the new opportunities and activities that your weight loss journey allows you to enjoy, whether it’s traveling, participating in new hobbies, or simply feeling more energetic and confident.
Conclusion
Life after bariatric surgery involves significant lifestyle changes and a commitment to long-term health and wellness. By following the tips provided and setting realistic expectations, you can achieve lasting success and enjoy a healthier, more fulfilling life. At VIVE Bariatrics, we are dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Schedule a consultation with us today to learn more about how we can help you on your weight loss journey.
