Recovery following surgery differs from patient to patient and is dependent on the weight loss surgery procedure. After surgery, patients can generally expect the following:
- The day after: Most patients are self-caring on the following morning.
- Hospital stay: Because keyhole surgery is minimally invasive, the patient usually needs to spend 1-3 nights in hospital depending on the weight loss surgery procedure.
- Normal activities: The patient can generally resume day-to-day activities, including work, within 1 or 2 weeks.
- Sore throat: This is temporary, and is related to the anaesthetic tube used during surgery.
- Nausea: This is temporary, and is related to the anaesthetic.
- Pain and discomfort: Levels vary depending on the patient. Some patients experience mild pain and discomfort related to the incisions or referred shoulder tip pain due to the CO2 gas used. Pain relief is administered during and after surgery.
- Scarring: Because keyhole surgery is minimally invasive, there is very little scarring. You will have 5 small cuts that will heal quickly.
- Oral fluids: Small amounts of clear liquids will be allowed the day after surgery, and from then on, it is important to follow step 2 of the post surgery nutrition program.
- Vomiting: It is very important that vomiting is avoided in the early post-operative period. Anti-emetics will be prescribed. Vomiting could cause damage to the gastric sleeev or for the band to slip rendering it useless.
- Early ambulation is important to reduce risk of calf thrombosis
- X-rays: Some patients need a special X ray to check the position of the band.
- Ongoing follow-up by surgeon, dietitian, psychologist and exercise consultant as part of the Circle of Care program.
