Weight loss Surgery - Post-Surgery (hospital/clinic)

After surgery you will be taken to a high-dependency unit where you will be hooked up to machines which will monitor your heart and other body systems.  This means the staff can keep an eye on your recovery and are on hand if anything does go wrong.

As soon as they are satisfied with your recovery you will be taken back to your room/ward.

Once there a nurse will check your blood pressure and heart rate at regular intervals.  He/she will also check your operation incision.  You may find that you have had a tube inserted into your mouth which runs down to your stomach.  This will only be in place for a day or so and is designed to drain any excess air and fluid which has accumulated during surgery in your stomach.

You may also have an intravenous tube (IV) in your arm.  This is to keep you hydrated.  However, once you start sipping liquids this tube will be removed.  Other tubing includes a catheter to drain urine from your bladder and a tube running from a small hole in your stomach to drain off excess fluid. 

Once they are satisfied with your progress the medical staff will remove these tubes.

You will be encouraged to get out of bed as soon as you can and move around.  This is to prevent the risk of blood clots or chest infections.  And, you may have daily injections of heparin (blood thinning drug) as an extra measure.

After 24 hours has passed you will be able to start on the liquid part of your diet.  This means pureed foods such as soups, broths etc.

Remember: you will have to follow a lifelong diet and exercise regime.  You will not be able to exercise yet but will be encouraged to do so as soon as possible.  Take things gently to start with and then build it up.

You will have been given painkillers and any other similar medication.  Make sure you have an adequate supply.  Your nurse will be able to advise you about caring for your surgical wound, bathing/showering etc.   

Any stitches will be removed before you are discharged.  Staples are not removed until two weeks after surgery.

Before you go home you will be given a contact number for the hospital or clinic and the date for your first follow up session.

1. Weight loss Surgery - Post-Surgery (hospital/clinic)
2. Post-surgery (at home)