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Recovery After Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery is just the first step to improving your health and quality of life. Adjusting to life after surgery can be confusing and challenging, but Inspira Health has the resources and support you need to be successful—in both losing the weight and keeping it off.

Recovering in the Hospital

The amount of time you spend in the hospital depends on which type of bariatric procedure you undergo, but generally speaking you will spend one to two days recovering in the hospital. During this time, Inspira’s staff will monitor your vital signs and administer pain medication as needed.

Before you are discharged from the hospital, you will receive information about nutritional supplements, dietary changes and more. Arrangements will also be made for a follow-up visit with your physician.

Recovering at Home

Once you are home from the hospital, it’s important to keep the surgical area clean and dry. Your physician will give you specific bathing instructions—like sticking to the shower for the first week instead of tub bathing. Any non-dissolving sutures will be removed during a follow-up visit.

The incision and your abdominal muscles may ache, especially during deep breathing, coughing and exertion. It is safe to take a pain reliever for soreness, as recommended by your physician. It will likely take several weeks to return to your previous stamina, and you should gradually increase your physical activity to avoid injury.

If you experience any of the following symptoms during recovery, seek medical attention immediately:

  • Fever and/or chills
  • Redness, swelling, bleeding or drainage from the incision site
  • Increased pain around the incision site

Bariatric Surgery Follow-Up Care

Bariatric surgery requires a lifetime of support from your health care providers, friends, family and support groups. Here’s what to expect:

Appointments with Your Surgeon

You will meet with your surgeon at specific intervals after surgery: one week, one month, three months, six months and then yearly. During these appointments, your provider can monitor your progress, answer questions you may have and make recommendations for lifestyle adjustments based on your needs.

Appointments with a Dietitian

We recommended that you meet with a registered dietitian at least three months and six months after surgery, and then as often as needed for continued education and guidance. A dietitian can help you stick to your healthy eating habits long-term and make sure you’re getting the nutrients you need.

Learn more about nutrition after bariatric surgery.

 

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