The recovery phase post-gastric sleeve surgery requires a mindful approach to encompass both your physical recovery and overall well-being. The bariatric surgery team at Dignity Health Medical Group is here to guide you through the post-weight loss surgery phase with tips and advice to take throughout your recovery and beyond.
While these are general guidelines, your surgeon and the team will work with you on specific post-surgical instructions designed to enhance your recovery.
Tips for Recovering After Weight Loss Surgery
When you’re at home recovering from bariatric surgery, it’s important to follow some key advice to ensure a smooth and successful healing process.
- Hydration: Aim to drink 1.5 to 2 liters of water daily to stay hydrated and support your body’s healing process.
- Physical Activity: Work towards meeting your daily walking goals, aiming to walk 2 miles by the 6th week of recovery.
- Supplementation: Take a daily multivitamin to ensure you’re getting essential nutrients during the recovery period.
- Follow Dietary Guidelines: Adhere to all dietary recommendations provided by your bariatric surgeon to support healing and maintain proper nutrition.
- Limit Strenuous Activity: Avoid strenuous exercise for 3 to 6 weeks, and refrain from heavy lifting for 1 to 6 weeks to prevent strain on your body.
- Driving Restrictions: Hold off on driving until you’ve completed all prescription pain medications to ensure you’re fully alert and able to drive safely.
- Support System: During the initial days at home, it’s beneficial to have someone with you for moral and physical support. They can assist with tasks like grocery shopping, pet care, and personal needs such as showering and using the toilet.
Tips for Life After Weight Loss Surgery
Incorporating these tips into your post-bariatric surgery routine, you can make exercise enjoyable and sustainable, helping you achieve your weight loss goals while improving your overall health and well-being.
- Incorporate Movement into Daily Life: Take the stairs instead of the elevator whenever possible to add extra steps to your day.
- Walk Your Dog: If you have a furry friend, make it a daily habit to take them for a walk. It’s good for both of you!
- Join a Fitness Community: Consider joining an exercise club, gym, or fitness class where you can stay motivated and enjoy working out with others.
- Opt for Walking: When running errands or going to appointments, park your car farther away from your destination to sneak in some extra steps.
- Limit Sedentary Activities: Instead of using the remote, get up and change the channel manually. Every bit of movement counts!
- Explore Enjoyable Activities: Experiment with activities like dancing, yoga, kickboxing swimming, or water aerobics to find enjoyable ways to stay active.
- Choose Comfortable Attire: Wear workout clothes and shoes that make you feel comfortable and confident during exercise sessions.
Remember, finding activities you enjoy is key to staying motivated and sticking to your fitness routine!
Tips for Dieting After Bariatric Surgery
To support your weight loss journey after bariatric surgery, it’s crucial to make important diet changes.
- Prioritize Protein: Ensure you consume high amounts of protein without added sugar and starch each day to support muscle health and aid in weight loss.
- Portion Control: Opt for smaller portions during meals to manage calorie intake and promote weight loss.
- Cut Out Sugary Drinks: Eliminate sodas and other sugary beverages from your diet to reduce unnecessary calories and maintain stable blood sugar levels.
- Increase Plant-Based Foods: Incorporate a variety of fruits and vegetables into your meals to boost nutrient intake, promote satiety, and support overall health.
- Mindful Eating: Practice eating slowly and mindfully, savoring each bite and paying attention to your body’s hunger and fullness cues. Avoid rushing through meals, as it can lead to overeating.
Bariatric surgery marks the beginning of a transformative journey toward a healthier life. While it provides a valuable head start, the responsibility for sustaining long-term success rests on implementing essential lifestyle changes post-surgery. Results and advice may vary; talk with the surgeons of Dignity Health Medical Group for individualized advice designed to enhance your recovery.
Contact Dignity Health Medical Group for further information and advice on weight loss surgery in the Phoenix area. Call our Gilbert office at (480) 728-6590, our Chandler office at (602) 582-5233, or request an appointment through our secure online form.
