Procedures of bariatric surgery give people a chance to build a new life for themselves. However, bariatric surgery does require several changes, which can seem like serious challenges at first. So, what should a person expect to encounter on this journey? And how can they face the challenges?
Recovery and adapting
Patients are not left to their own devices during the post-operative period. Every bariatric surgery procedure includes a post-procedure check-up and consultation opportunities. It is also important that the patient takes some time off, so that their body can heal and be ready for their new lifestyle, both physically and emotionally.
When fitted with an intragastric balloon, it is necessary to rest for at least a week. Even though this procedure is the least invasive among bariatric surgeries, one should still take into account normal post-operative recovery time and also take time to prepare for the procedure. Gastric band surgery and gastric plication are more demanding procedures and require a rest period of at least 1–2 weeks. Gastric bypass and gastric sleeve surgeries require that the patient rests for at least two weeks.
The decision to undergo bariatric surgery has not been made haphazardly by any patients and the real journey begins once the operation has been completed. At this point, it is vital to take sufficient time to recover and rest, so that you can face the next challenge with more stamina.
How will the patient eat?
Experience shows that changes in the quality of nutrition and new habits will pose one of the toughest challenges for the patient. The operation doesn’t make obesity magically disappear, instead, it gives people the necessary push in the right direction to live their lives in a whole new way.
All methods of bariatric surgery reduce peoples’ need for large quantities of food. To ensure that the surgery really works, it is vital to be attentive and active.
Dr. Rein Adamson, the chief bariatric surgeon at The Health Clinic, adds the following:
The biggest challenge in the case of a bariatric surgery is the necessity to undergo a drastic lifestyle change to ensure long-term success. When consuming very small quantities of food, it is important to eat 5–6 meals a day and ensure that this food is of high quality. Compiling the right menu can be tricky at first, but it is vital so that the body is able to get the nutrients that it needs. We have a nutritionist on our team, who can provide long-term consultation to patients in situations just like this.
It is also necessary to be physically active, which can be complicated right after surgery, but will get easier in time, as the weight comes off as a result of the operation. By combining proper nutrition and regular physical activity, it is possible to get great results, be active again and lead a full and satisfying life.
Leading a healthy life can seem like a self-evident option – why is a surgery necessary? Some people may be lucky enough to change their lives instantly, just like that; however, very many people have serious issues, which make changes nearly impossible, both in the physiological and mental sense. Bariatric surgery is a decision of great responsibility, made in complicated circumstances.
Bariatric surgery helps transform lives
Life can be improved through hardships and our experience shows that challenges are there to be overcome. The Health Clinic is ready to provide help in the case of any adjustment difficulties or rare complications through the following activities:
- post-operative check-up.
- consultations with a bariatric nurse,
- sharing instructional materials.
We do everything in our power to ensure that our patients can start their new lives with confidence.
