The Gastric Sleeve Recovery Timeline
Gastric sleeve surgery is a great option for surgical weight loss, and one that we have discussed at length on our blog. When patients come to our bariatric surgery center, the decision is up to them regarding what kind of weight loss surgery they undergo, and we will be more than happy to go over the risks and benefits of all procedures.
We've focused on the nature of gastric sleeve surgery a lot, and right now we'd like to take some time to look a the recovery after the surgery is performed. It's important that patients understand that healing is a process and that they do not rush it. This should provide you with some valuable insight into the procedure.
Two Nights In the Hospital After Gastric Sleeve Surgery
After your gastric sleeve surgery is performed, you will remain in a full-service hospital for two nights. This will be to monitor your vital signs and to check that there are no complications following surgery. We actually triple-check the revised stomach pouch just so we are certain that there are no leaks.
Two Nights In the Hotel Following the Hospital Stay
After you are discharged from the hospital, you will remain in your hotel for two nights. It's important to get rest and to follow our post-op instructions to the letter (which extends into the next two to three months of healing at home, of course). This additional stay at the hotel is a means for us to continue monitoring your healing in those first crucial days after surgery.
Patients will be driven back to their hotel from the hospital by our practice's private driver. We will also make sure that you arrive at the airport safely when you eventually depart for home.
Carefully Moderating Physical Activity for the First Two Months
When you've returned home after your gastric sleeve surgery, it's important to continue your focus on resting and recovery. Generally this means taking roughly two weeks off of work and refraining from any exercise and strenuous physical activity (which includes sexual activity and heavy lifting) for at least six weeks.
Gradually over the course of two months, you will be able to return to normal physical activities. Be sure not to strain yourself and to use good judgment. If you have any questions with regard to physical activity, be sure to ask us just to be on the safe side.
Gradual Changes to Your Diet for Two Months
You will need to reintroduce solid foods very gradually after your surgery, and in the process retrain yourself on how to eat, in a sense. There are three phases of your diet in the first two months after gastric sleeve surgery:
- Phase 1: Liquid Diet - For the first week or two after surgery, you will be on an all-liquid diet
- Phase 2: Reintroducing Soft Foods - After two weeks, you will slowly reintroduce soft foods into your diet, always proceeding slowly and conservatively
- Phase 3: Reintroducing Solid Foods - At the four-week or six-week mark, you will reintroduce solid foods into your diet, again proceeding slowly and conservatively
We will provide patients with dietary do's and don'ts after their surgery has been performed so they understand what they can eat and what they cannot eat.
Learn More About Your Weight Loss Surgery Options
If you would like more information about gastric sleeve surgery and your many options for advanced bariatrics, be sure to contact our Tijuana weight loss surgery center today. Our entire team looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you achieve great surgical results and good health in the long run.
