Life After Bariatric Surgery: What to Expect
We understand that bariatric surgery is a positive, life-changing decision for anyone struggling with severe obesity. In the last 20 years, Dr Shashank Shah and his team have successfully done over 6000+ bariatric surgeries. The one thing almost every patient wants to know with absolute clarity is what their life will look like after bariatric surgery. In this post, we’ll explore the various aspects of life post-surgery, from physical changes to emotional adjustments and lifestyle modifications.
Let’s first start with the Initial Recovery Period
The first few weeks after surgery are crucial for your recovery.
Here’s what you can expect:
Depending on the type of surgery and your health status, you’ll typically spend 1-3 days in the hospital.
Kavita was discharged within 24 hours and happily travelled back to her hometown.
You’ll start with a liquid diet, gradually progressing to pureed foods, soft foods, and eventually solid foods over several weeks.
You’ll be encouraged to walk frequently but avoid strenuous activities for 3-6 weeks.
You may need regular check-ups with your surgical team in the initial week to monitor your recovery.
So this is the initial recovery period.
Now let’s talk about Physical Changes
As you recover and adapt to your new digestive system, you’ll experience several physical changes:
Most patients lose weight quickly in the first 3-6 months, with weight loss continuing at a slower rate for 12-18 months.
Subhash lost 21 kg in 3 months and became diabetes free.
Dipali lost 21 kg’s in one and a half months.
As you lose weight, you’ll likely feel more energetic and mobile.
Many patients see improvements in conditions like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.
Rapid weight loss may lead to loose, sagging skin. Some patients choose to have body contouring surgery later.
What are the dietary changes you will experience?
Your relationship with food will change significantly after bariatric surgery:
Your new stomach pouch will only hold small amounts of food, typically 1/4 to 1 cup.
You’ll likely eat 4-6 small meals throughout the day instead of three large meals.
Getting enough nutrition will be important.
You may need to avoid foods that are hard to digest or that cause discomfort, such as very fibrous vegetables or sugary foods.
You’ll need to eat slowly, chew thoroughly, and pay attention to your body’s fullness cues.
Lifestyle Modifications
Bariatric surgery requires long-term lifestyle changes for success:
As you recover, you’ll need to incorporate regular physical activity into your routine, starting with walking and progressing to more intense exercises.
Drinking enough water becomes crucial, but you’ll need to avoid drinking with meals to prevent overfilling your stomach pouch.
Many patients find they become more sensitive to alcohol after surgery.
You’ll need to be a little more aware of your health and nutritional status.
Emotional and Social Changes
The physical changes after bariatric surgery often come with emotional and social adjustments:
Many patients report increased confidence and improved body image as they lose weight.
Your weight loss may positively affect your relationships, sometimes in unexpected ways.
As you become more active and confident, you may find yourself in new social situations that can be both exciting and challenging.
Adapting to your new body and lifestyle can lead to a shift in how you see yourself and how others perceive you.
Long-Term Success
Long-term success after bariatric surgery depends on your commitment to lifestyle changes. Here are some keys to success:
Try to have more nutritional food
Regular exercise is crucial for maintaining weight loss and overall health.
Find healthy ways to cope with stress, such as meditation, yoga, or counseling.
Conclusion
Life after bariatric surgery is a journey of significant physical, emotional, and lifestyle changes.
While you have to be more aware of how you conduct your life, many patients report substantial improvements in their health, mobility, and overall quality of life. The key to success lies in preparing for these changes, following medical advice, and committing to your new lifestyle long-term.
Remember, bariatric surgery is not just about losing weight—it’s about gaining a healthier, more active life. With the right mindset, support, and dedication, you can navigate the changes and challenges to achieve lasting success in your weight loss journey. If you’re considering bariatric surgery or are in the post-surgery phase, don’t hesitate to reach out to your medical team or support group with questions or concerns.
Your success is our priority, and we are there to support you every step of the way.
