Post Op Bariatric Surgery: Guide to Aftercare & Importance of Follow Up Care

Post Op Bariatric Surgery: Guide to Aftercare & Importance of Follow Up Care

If you’ve recently had bariatric surgery or have decided to have bariatric surgery, congratulations! This is a big step in your life and will lead you to a healthier future. Over time, you can expect rapid weight loss and an increase in your physical abilities.

There are things you should know for right after bariatric surgery, though. Post op bariatric surgery aftercare is absolutely paramount for making sure that you have a speedy recovery that is as comfortable as possible.

NOTE: These instructions may not be the exact instructions we give you on the day you’re discharged from the hospital. Use this article as a guideline.

Bariatric Surgery Post Op Nursing Care: Discharge Day

On the day you’re discharged, you’ll be given a list of instructions that you will need to follow. These are some of the post op care instructions that you’ll be given.

Instructions

  • Take the following vitamins daily:
    • Chewable multivitamin with Iron
    • An additional Calcium (1500 mg) + Vitamin D (800 IU) chewable multivitamin
    • For women of reproductive age who have menstrual periods: 2 Bariatric Advantage Chewable Iron tablets
    • Women of reproductive age must continue to take iron supplements until the onset of menopause.
    • Take only one vitamin at a time, with at least 10 minutes between vitamins.
    • Don’t take the additional calcium and additional iron supplement in the same hour.
  • Sip water throughout the day, preferably through a straw.
  • Take protein supplements as instructed by your surgeon.

Activity Restrictions

  • You’re allowed to drive, walk, and go up and down the stairs as soon as you feel like you’re able to do so.
  • No lifting more than 10 pounds until the doctor gives the OK (usually after 2-3 weeks)
  • Showering is okay, so long as you do not bother the incisions.
  • Do not go swimming until the incisions have healed.
  • Do not drive or operate heavy machinery while taking pain medications.

Additional Restrictions

  • No anti-inflammatory pain medications may be taken unless approved by your doctor. Acetaminophen (Tylenol or generic) is allowed. Prescribed opioid medications are also allowed.
  • Donating blood is not allowed until your doctor gives their explicit approval.
  • In case of the following complications, contact your surgery provider:
    • Fever over 101 F
    • Vomiting episodes lasting more than 4 hours
    • Diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours
    • Abdominal pain lasting more than 4 hours
  • If you have to go to the emergency room for any reason, make sure to inform them that you have had bariatric surgery; do not allow them to insert a stomach tube.
Learn more about life after gastric sleeve surgery! If you’re looking for gastric bypass surgery in Lubbock or any sort of bariatric surgery, West Texas Bariatric is here to help. Schedule a consultation today!

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