Helping Your Body Adjust After Surgery

Congratulations! You’ve taken a huge step in getting healthy. You’ve had bariatric surgery, and you’re looking forward to the pounds coming off. This is an exciting time in your life!

So, once you’ve gone home, do you know what to expect? You may have worries, and you may be surprised by some of the feelings you have. After a few weeks, and as you start eating solid food, your body may experience a variety of reactions. Here are some tips to help you be ready for anything.

What If You’re Nauseated?

Patients can experience nausea and vomiting. Remember to

• Eat slowly
• Take small bites
• Chew each bite at least 15 times
• Eat small portions
• Drink enough water (as much as 2 liters a day) to stay hydrated

Keep in mind that you’re filling a much smaller space now, so you may feel full faster. If vomiting is severe or persists, call your doctor right away. If you have an adjustable gastric band, it may need to be altered.

What If Some Foods Don’t Agree with You?

After surgery, you may find that you can’t tolerate some foods. Even if you take small bites, there may be some food items you should avoid. For instance,

• Vegetables, such as cauliflower and broccoli, which can cause gas and stomach pain
• Meat that is overly dry or tough
• Gummy foods such as bread, pasta, and rice
• Sticky items such as peanut butter
• Dairy products, since some patients become lactose intolerant

Don’t despair! There are still so many other foods to enjoy. Just learn to make substitutions, such as tender poultry instead of some other meats and soy milk instead of regular.

What If You Suddenly Feel Faint or Have a Rapid Heart Beat?

If you’ve had bypass surgery, these symptoms could be the result of “dumping syndrome,” which happens as the stomach empties too quickly into the small intestine. You may also experience sweating or stomach cramps.

These problems will probably pass on their own, but they can be unpleasant and frightening. To avoid this condition, try not to eat fatty foods and sweets. These foods are not nutritionally beneficial anyway, so—for the most part—strike them off your list.

What If You’re Losing Your Hair?

Don’t panic! Many people experience hair loss after surgery. This is normal, and usually the hair regrows after several months. Make sure you’re eating enough protein.

What If You’re Constipated?

This is a common occurrence, too. Try to eat a good variety of fruits and vegetables, and add a fiber supplement as needed. Get regular exercise, and drink plenty of water.

What If Your Skin Is Loose?

As you shed pounds, your excess skin may be loose and hang from your body. You may find this frustrating, since you want to look great after weight loss. But be patient. After you have attained your goal weight, there may be options. Talk to your doctor about the possibility of plastic surgery. In the meantime, make sure you participate in resistance exercises to tone muscle.

In the weeks and months after bariatric surgery, monitor your body for changes. Never hesitate to contact you doctor if you have concerns about symptoms you’re experiencing.

If you have questions about what to expect after surgery, contact North Florida Regional Medical Center. You can visit out bariatric page online or call 1-800-342-6057. We’re here to answer your questions and help you meet your weight-loss goals.

SOURCES
http://www.bariatricsurgerypittsburgh.com/surgery/side_effects.html
http://www.webmd.com/diet/weight-loss-surgery/gastric-banding-surgery-for-weight-loss