How Can You Speed Up Your Recovery from Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

How Can You Speed Up Your Recovery from Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Gastric sleeve surgery is a major operation so it is important to take the time to rest and recover after the procedure. However, there are a few things you can do to ensure that you recover as quickly and fully as possible from the operation.

Tips for Recovering from Gastric Sleeve Surgery

• Exercise: although you will need to rest for a while after the operation, it is important to get up and move around as soon as you are able. Some gentle exercise will help you to heal faster and it will also be a good start to your new, healthy lifestyle.
• Diet: you will be on a very restricted diet in the weeks after your gastric sleeve surgery, but don’t be tempted to eat foods your stomach isn’t ready for yet. Stick to the liquid or soft foods until your doctor says you are ready for solids. Remember to take any nutritional supplements your doctor has recommended too.
• Hydration: drinking plenty of water is important when you are healing as your body needs to stay healthy. You might not feel like drinking much else while you are still on the liquid diet, but it is important to ensure your body remains properly hydrated.
• Don’t smoke: smoking or spending time in smoky environments can slow down the healing process, so try to avoid it while you are recovering. If you can take this opportunity to give up for good, it will be great for your health too.
• Rest: healing takes a lot out of your body, so don’t try to push yourself too hard. You should take at least two weeks off to rest at home and avoid strenuous physical activities for at least 8 weeks. You may also feel more tired than usual because of your restricted diet, so take care of yourself and get plenty of rest.

Looking after yourself after gastric sleeve surgery is important, but you should also make use of all the support that is available to you. Ask friends and family for help when you need it and make sure that you attend your follow up appointments and talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.