Post Surgery Recovery – Bypass/Sleeve

Everyone is different with their recovery, but you will need to take it easy after bypass/sleeve surgery.

Every provider will have their own guidelines on how to best recover but these can be used as a general guide:

• Expect to stay in hospital for a day or two.
• Do nothing too strenuous for the first 6-8 weeks after surgery, but it is encouraged that you keep up and mobile straight from the off to aid recovery and help prevent any post op complications.
• Bathe as your provider has instructed.  We would advise not to submerge your wounds in a bath until you are scab free – run your finger over the scars and they should feel smooth.
• Flying is generally fine following surgery – you can fly home if you need to but refrain from drinking (or eating) on the plane whilst everything is healing.
• Ensure you have nourishing liquids after your surgery – ones that contain protein (more ideas in the Members area).
• Painkillers should be soluble – paracetamol or co–codamol.
• Make sure you drink plenty of fluids to keep hydrated – urine colour should be pale and straw coloured.
• Observe for any signs of infection and call your provider if you are worried – high temperature, oozing or seeping/redness or heat at the wound sites or any additional swelling.
• Surgical pain is expected to some degree, but if your getting pain or discomfort on drinking – sip slowly and have a rest between each sip and if there is still discomfort then call your aftercare team.