Recovery Period after Gastric Bypass Surgery Explained

After gastric bypass surgery, the next step is going through the recovery period. It will start by making sure that there are no complications by going through an upper gastrointestinal tract radiography or upper GI. Then comes your diet- you will be allowed at first to consume only liquids. After some time, you can begin to add solid foods into your diet. However, you need to be aware that you will only eat a small amount of food at any given sitting. You will have to avoid eating snacks as that can actually cause you to gain weight. You have to relearn how to eat properly. Chewing your food completely will be important, and you will need to listen to your body for signs that you are full.

Expect to have numerous follow-ups with your doctor following your bariatric surgery. The frequency of your follow-ups will be determined by your doctor depending on the progress of your recovery.

It is satisfying as you lose excess pounds that you have always wanted to lose but there are also side effects that you may have to deal with. These side effects are quite similar to when you have flu-you will feel cold, achy and tired. Some experience hair thinning or worse, hair loss. You might also experience mood swings. Because you are losing excess pounds, there could be loose skin.

As soon as you can, it is good for you to start walking. Part of your recovery is to walk around. Your doctor will inform you when rigorous exercise is safe for you.

Most patients who have undergone gastric bypass operation have successfully reduced their weight after a few years. A small percentage of patients will not lose significant weight. This is because some of them are still continuing with their unhealthy lifestyle like eating too much food and high intake of calories. Patients who follow the post-operation guidelines and maintenance usually lose about around 60% of their excess body weight within the first year after their surgery. By about two years after, patients will lose 70-80% of their total excess body weight as long as they continue their proper diet and exercise.

Within a few weeks, you can go back to work or your daily routine. It is a life changing event to undergo gastric bypass surgery. It is something that you need to prepare for and be aware of what to expect. When you have tried traditional means of losing weight but have not succeeded, then gastric bypass surgery would be a good option. It is not for everyone, but those who undergo this procedure experience changed lives and freedom from excess weight.