What to know right after your procedure
So you’ve finished the procedure…now what? We’re here to help you start the next steps in your journey successfully.
Existing Medication
Confirm with your doctor what you should keep taking. Many people will be able to stop many of their medications after the procedure!
Vitamins
Remember to start taking your vitamins. Most people will need to take a multi-vitamin, calcium citrate, Vitamin D, and Vitamin B12 .Your doctor may proscribe additional vitamins as well.
Activity
The more walking you do the better – it helps prevent blood clots and speed recovery. Don’t lift anything over 20lbs your first month, including small children, and avoid body-weight exercises. If you do need to lift something, use your legs.
Bathing
You can shower 24 hours after your procedure but do not scrub your incisions; pat them dry after your shower. You may not have a bath, go swimming, or use a hot tub until cleared by your surgeon (usually 2-4 weeks after the procedure).
Bariatric Prescriptions
Try taking Tylenol for pain. You can also get additional prescriptions as needed. If you have nausea, there are a number of medications that can help. You may be proscribed a blood thinner and/or an antacid that needs to be taken every day.
Driving
If you are not taking narcotics for pain, you can drive 24-48 hours after your procedure. You cannot drive while you are taking narcotics for pain.
Common Concerns
Many people experience some amount of nausea, constipation, reflux, and fatigue in their first month. These usually resolve by themselves, and there are medications that can be taken to help with symptoms. If issues are persistent or severe, you may want to speak with a doctor.
What to expect after the first month
Diet
You will gradually progress from liquids to mushy foods to solids. At first, expect to eat 1-2 ounces at a time, which will increase to 3-4. Longer term you should expect to eat 5-7ounces at a time.
Activity
A month after your procedure, you can begin incorporating more vigorous exercise. Think about doing a combination of cardio activities that increase heart rate and strength building exercises. Consider trying new activities and, if you don't like them, just walking can be great exercise. Not only is exercise good for your cardiovascular health, it has been shown to improve mental health and support maintenance of weight loss.
