If you are considering weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, you are probably wondering what life will be like after the procedure. Many patients report feeling better than they ever have before, both physically and mentally. However, it is important to be prepared for the changes that will occur in your body and your lifestyle. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover what you can expect in the weeks and months following your weight loss surgery.
What to Expect Following Weight Loss Surgery?
Most patients report feeling great immediately after weight loss surgery in Tijuana, Mexico, as they have finally reached a point where they are taking control of their weight and their health. For many, this is a life-changing moment. However, it is important to keep in mind that you will need to recover from surgery and make some lifestyle changes to experience the full benefits of weight loss surgery. In a nutshell, your journey will involve the following steps:
- Recovery from surgery
- Adjusting to your new diet
- Getting used to a new lifestyle
- Maintaining your weight loss
We will go into more detail about each of these steps below.
1. Recovery From Surgery
After surgery, you will be taken to a recovery room, where you will be monitored for any complications. You can expect to stay in the hospital for two to three days after surgery. During this time, you will likely experience some pain and discomfort as your body adjusts to the surgery. Your doctor will prescribe medication to help manage this pain.
You will also have drains placed in your incisions to remove any excess fluid. These drains will be removed before you are discharged from the hospital. It is normal to feel tired and weak for several weeks after surgery. You will need to take it easy and allow your body to recover. Your doctor will likely recommend that you take two to four weeks off from work.
During your recovery, you will need to avoid strenuous activity, lifting heavy objects, and bending or stooping. You will also need to avoid taking baths or swimming until your incisions have healed.
2. Adjusting to Your New Diet
After weight loss surgery, your stomach will be much smaller, and you will need to change the way you eat. You will be on a liquid diet for the first two weeks after surgery. After that, you will slowly transition to solid foods. However, you will need to eat small meals and avoid high-calorie foods.
Your doctor will likely recommend that you take vitamin and mineral supplements to ensure that you are getting the nutrients you need. You will also need to stay hydrated by drinking eight to ten glasses of water per day.
3. Getting Used to a New Lifestyle
In addition to changes in your diet, you will also need to make some lifestyle changes. For example, you will need to get regular exercise. This is important for both your physical and mental health. You will also need to attend regular follow-up appointments with your doctor to ensure that you are on track.
4. Maintaining Your Weight Loss
The final step in your journey is maintaining your weight loss. This can be a challenge, but it is important to stick with it. There are a few things you can do to increase your chances of success. First, you will need to continue following a healthy diet and getting regular exercise. You will also need to keep up with your doctor’s appointments regularly. Finally, you will need to find ways to cope with stress in a healthy way.
The Bottom Line
With the help of this guide, you should now have a better understanding of what to expect following weight loss surgery. Remember, this is just a general overview. Be sure to talk to your doctor about your specific situation.