Gastric Sleeve Surgery Recovery: What You Should Know

Successful weight loss requires careful planning and effort, and understanding what life after bariatric surgery will look like is essential. Check out this guide on what you should know about gastric sleeve surgery recovery for more information.

What Happens After Surgery?

Immediately after surgery, you’ll likely stay overnight at the hospital or surgery facility. The doctors will monitor you to ensure you’re not experiencing post-op complications. During this time, your abdomen may feel sore or swollen, and you may receive medication to mitigate discomfort.

Before leaving the medical facility, your doctor will provide detailed meal and activity plans. Additionally, they’ll give you instructions on how to avoid complications. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask.

Short-Term Recovery at Home

Taking things slow and avoiding strenuous activities after surgery are important. However, you should try walking every day to boost blood flow. Following your diet plan to avoid issues with your incision and staple line is also critical. Generally, you’ll be on a liquid diet for the first week of recovery and then transition to pureed foods.

Don’t eat solid foods too soon, as doing so can damage your stomach and lead to nausea, vomiting, and cramps. If you’re experiencing complications such as bleeding, shortness of breath, or blood clots, seek medical attention.

Long-Term Recovery Expectations

Understanding long-term gastric sleeve surgery recovery is also important. And one crucial thing you should know is that you must stick with your eating plans. Your stomach is smaller, so you must eat small portions of food at a time. And with smaller portions, eating meals with high nutritional value is imperative.

Your activity level plays a role in long-term recovery, too. Being active will help you keep the weight off and increase your energy levels.

Importance of Follow-Up Care

Scheduling and keeping follow-up appointments with your doctor is necessary for recovery. Your doctor will make sure you’re progressing after surgery and recovering well. The appointments are also good times to discuss concerns with your doctor or ask questions about your new lifestyle. Additionally, your doctor may adjust your eating and diet plans to optimize your recovery time.

Ultimately, life after bariatric surgery will look different. However, a strong commitment to a healthy diet and exercise plan can help you maintain your surgical results. If you’re interested in gastric sleeve surgery in Las Vegas, contact Slim Vegas Bariatric and General Surgery. We’re a compassionate, caring professional team that’s ready to help you!