After thorough research, selecting your surgeon, deciding on your weight loss surgery, and setting a date, it’s crucial to consider the next steps: How long will you be away from work? Have you arranged for childcare? Do you have a family member or friend to assist you in the initial recovery phase?
Recovery and rest are essential components of any surgical procedure, including bariatric surgery. Even for less invasive methods such as the gastric sleeve, it’s important to anticipate a period of recovery. So, what can you expect during the recovery phase of gastric sleeve surgery?
What’s the Duration of the Recovery Phase Following Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Gastric sleeve surgery, a key procedure in battling obesity, marks the start of significant dietary and lifestyle alterations aimed at weight reduction. This operation, also referred to as laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, drastically decreases the stomach’s size, setting the stage for the weight loss journey ahead.
One common query among individuals opting for this surgery revolves around the duration required for both the operation and the subsequent recovery period, as understanding this timeline is crucial for preparing for this transformative phase.
In this discussion, we aim to shed light on the sleeve gastrectomy process, with a particular focus on what one can expect during the recovery phase post-surgery.
How long will you stay in hospital after gastric sleeve?
Gastric sleeve surgery, known for its minimally invasive approach utilizing advanced laparoscopic techniques, typically necessitates a hospital stay of 3-4 days. During this time, patients are under the watchful eye of skilled medical professionals, receiving necessary medications to manage any post-surgical side effects like pain and nausea.
For the initial six hours post-surgery, patients are advised against consuming any food or beverages and are strictly prohibited from smoking. Following this period, they may start drinking water slowly, under supervision. The medical team conducts various tests to check for potential complications. If the patient’s condition is stable and there are no significant concerns, they are encouraged to walk on the first day to facilitate recovery.
In addition to physical care, patients receive guidance from specialist dietitians and their doctor on adjusting to their new lifestyle post-discharge. Assuming no complications arise and the doctor approves, patients may be discharged within 1-3 days, sometimes even on the same day as the surgery, although this is less common and dependent on a smooth recovery.
Throughout their hospital stay, continuous monitoring and testing ensure the absence of major issues with the surgical site. Once given the green light by their surgeon, patients can head home to continue their recovery journey, equipped with the knowledge and support needed to adapt to their new lifestyle.
Recovery at home after gastric sleeve
Upon discharge from the hospital, patients will receive detailed instructions for post-operative care and a dietary regimen to adhere to. It’s entirely normal to feel fatigued after such significant surgery and a drastic reduction in calorie intake. Your body will prioritize healing, necessitating ample rest during the initial days at home.
It’s wise to evaluate the setup of your living space in advance. Consider whether navigating stairs is necessary to access essential areas like your bedroom or bathroom. While engaging in light activities such as short walks is encouraged to aid recovery, managing stairs and prolonged periods of standing or walking might present a challenge, so planning for these logistics is key.
“Walking and staying well-hydrated are crucial for a smooth recovery from sleeve gastrectomy,” Dr. Sisik emphasizes. “Patients can gradually reintroduce more strenuous activities after four to six weeks, alongside adhering to a carefully planned diet.”
Furthermore, patients are generally advised to allocate three to four weeks for recovery before returning to work, though this can vary based on the nature of their employment.
What is gastric sleeve recovery like?
Following the gastric sleeve procedure, patients are required to spend one night in the hospital under observation to ensure their well-being.
Like all surgical interventions, the gastric sleeve comes with its set of potential risks, including the possibility of leaks that might cause infections. “However, these risks are quite minimal,” mentions Dr. Sisik. “Our healthcare team is dedicated to managing any side effects you might experience, such as nausea and constipation.”
To aid in the recovery process, patients are placed on a specific dietary regimen. “Initially, your diet will consist solely of clear liquids and protein shakes for the first five to seven days. Subsequently, you’ll gradually move on to consuming soft and then solid foods,” Dr. Sisik explains.
