Life After Surgery

The first few weeks after surgery can be difficult. But keep in mind: it's also the beginning of a new, healthier way of life.

To allow the new stomach "pouch" time to heal, it is best to:

Follow a liquid diet for three weeks after surgery and avoid carbonation, ice and straws.

Move up to pureed foods and chewable vitamins in week four after surgery.

Reintroduce "real" foods into our diet during week five. It's best to avoid foods such as bread, pasta, rice and dry meat.

After surgery, you will always need to:

Eat a low-fat/low-calorie diet
Take small bites (the size of your little fingernail)
Chew every bite to applesauce consistency
Take 30 minutes to eat each meal
Never drink liquids with meals
Drink 64 ounces of liquid each day
Greatly reduce or eliminate caffeine intake
Exercise 30 minutes each day

A step in the right direction

Weight loss surgery is only a first step in an entire lifestyle plan to treat obesity. Other components include:

Eating right
Exercising regularly
Committing to long-term follow up with your surgeon
Attending support groups

Those who make the necessary lifestyle changes can look forward to improved day-to-day health. They often have better self-esteem, better relationships and an improved quality of life.