The surgeons of Tijuana Bariatrics have achieved excellent results thanks to gastric sleeve (sleeve gastrectomy), a safe and effective option for weight loss surgery. Part of the positive results is our focus on patient education, which means helping patients understand what they can do before and after surgery to avoid complications.
We’ve previously covered some post-op instructions for the first week after gastric sleeve on this blog. Let’s continue our look at patient healing and wellness by looking at some basic instructions for the second week after surgery.
Changes Come Gradually When Recovering from Gastric Sleeve
Though gastric sleeve surgery does not involve as much revision of the digestive tract as a gastric bypass, patients should keep in mind that changes from surgery and full recovery will take time. The second week after the surgery has been performed can pose a few challenges, but rest assured that the results will be worthwhile and the weight loss will have many benefits.
Week Two Diet: Liquid with Protein
Patients will graduate from the liquid diet of the first week to a liquid diet that incorporates proteins and very soft foods in the second week. In addition to all of the liquids mentioned in the previous blog post, patients can also add the following to their diet by week two:
- Non-fat yogurt
- Protein powder in water
- Very soft noodles in soup
- Very watery oatmeal
- Creamy soups without chunks
- Sugar-free pudding, ice cream, and sorbet
Remember to go slowly when adding new foods to your diet and to not push yourself as you are adjusting to life after surgery.
Activities That You Should Continue to Avoid
Patients should still continue to avoid heavy lifting, sexual activity, vigorous exercise, bending at the waist, heavy lifting, and any kind of major physical exertion. Use of tobacco products and consumption of alcohol are similarly to be avoided.
Light Walking to Improve Circulation
Patients are asked to walk around the home to improve circulation as they heal. This can prevent blood clots in the legs, reduce listlessness and fatigue, and help improve the overall healing process and aid in the management of post-surgical side effects.
Improvement of Early Side Effects
By the end of the first week, patients should notice a mild change in the early side effects following surgery. Pain, discomfort, and soreness will continue to be less of a factor as the weeks continue, and patients will notice improvements in overall feelings of wellness as they continue the adjustment and recovery process.
Continue to Keep in Contact with Our Team
Patients should continue to keep in contact with our team as they recovery so that we can answer any questions as they arise. Having skilled medical professionals on your side helps you have your questions answered and concerns addressed in a timely manner.
Schedule a Consultation at Tijuana Bariatrics
If you would like to learn more about gastric sleeve surgery and how it can help you achieve a slimmer, trimmer, and more ideal body mass, we encourage you to contact our weight loss surgery center today.
