Bariatric surgery, also known as weight loss surgery, is gaining steady popularity nowadays. Obesity is a chronic illness in children and adults. It has reached epidemic proportions worldwide. To counter obesity, most doctors are recommending people with obesity undergo bariatric surgery.
If diet and other forms of treatment haven’t yielded any positive outcomes, you may consider bariatric surgery. This operation leads to sustainable and long-term weight loss. However, one of the key highlights of this surgery is its ability to lower obesity-related comorbidities.
While the surgical procedure is essential in helping you achieve improved health, its success depends on postoperative care. Besides changing your diet, postoperative care includes several intricacies you must know.
Aftercare Treatment Following a Bariatric Surgery – Aspects to Know
Postoperative care after a weight loss operation refers to exceptional medical guidance and treatment offered to patients. Your weight loss surgeon will customize your aftercare treatment following a bariatric surgery. It is a critical phase of care that ensures safe and effective recovery.
You must always strictly adhere to the postoperative care recommended by your surgeon to transition to a healthier lifestyle. The proper aftercare treatment will allow you to recuperate swiftly. To assist you in the lifestyle changes, your surgeon will work closely with you.
Recovering in the Facility
In the aftermath of bariatric surgery, you will recover in the weight loss facility. Nowadays, most bariatric surgeries are performed laparoscopically. So, you don’t have to worry about sutures and stay in the center for prolonged durations.
In the early days and weeks after surgery, you will feel queasy and experience fatigue. However, these are typical symptoms that you shouldn’t worry about. If you are feeling any type of discomfort, you must consult with your weight loss surgeon promptly. Postsurgical pain is also common after a bariatric surgery.
Things You Should Know About Immediate Recovery
Right after the surgery, you will be monitored closely by the surgeon and the team. During this time, these professionals will minutely monitor your vital health parameters. Your surgeon will ask you to follow medical instructions strictly. The center will also guide you on how to manage pain and care for the incision site on your abdomen.
Exercises to Boost Recovery Following the Surgery
Nowadays, most surgeons recommend patients exercise following a bariatric surgery. The main objective of exercise is to promote blood circulation in the operated area. Walking short distances or changing your position in the bed can be beneficial to boost blood flow.
Proper blood flow boosts healing and eliminates any chances of clots being formed in your abdomen. Certain types of exercises can also improve your mobility after the surgery. Listed are some crucial aspects to know about exercising following the weight loss operation.
- The first night after the surgery, try to stand with someone’s support. This may hurt but will become simpler with time. It will boost your strength and confidence following the surgery.
- The day after weight loss surgery, your doctor will suggest you walk for short distances. Usually, you will be asked to walk thrice a day with active support.
- The medical team at the center will teach you how to breathe to loosen the secretions. For instance, they will teach you how to inhale while expanding your belly.
These exercises can be effective in helping you overcome the complexities associated with bariatric surgery.
Following a Strict Diet is Compulsory After Bariatric Surgery
The diet suggestions after a bariatric surgery vary from one patient to another. Your surgeon will monitor your condition and vital health signs. They will suggest a nutritious and balanced diet based on these factors.
Bariatric surgery transforms how your digestive system works. Moreover, this surgical procedure affects nutrient absorption in your endocrine system. Patients must undergo a gradual transition from liquids to solid food items over a specific duration of time. Here are the general dietary guidelines to follow after a weight loss operation.
- In the initial stages, you have to stick to a liquid diet like broth, diluted juices, water, etc.
- Your diet will progress to pureed food items in a matter of a few weeks after the surgery. During this duration, you may also consume high-protein foods.
- After thorough check-ups and consultations, the surgeon will finally allow you to have standard and solid food items.
A bariatric surgery diet can help you recuperate from the operation effectively. To get the best results and boost your recovery, you must always communicate with your doctor.
The success of bariatric surgery relies greatly on dedicated postoperative care. Following the guidelines, the weight loss center will allow you to recover appropriately and experience sustained weight loss.
About Author
Dr Abdulsalam Al Taie, at the Al Taie Center, is one of the most renowned bariatric surgeons in the UAE. He was the first doctor to perform bariatric surgery in the Emirates in 2003. In this blog, he has highlighted the significance of aftercare treatment following a bariatric surgery. On a further note, he has also illustrated the types of exercises and diet patients must follow.
