Obesity is a widespread problem that can cause various health issues and decrease quality of life. Bariatric surgery is a common and effective weight loss solution but involves a recovery period. For example, vitamins like iron and calcium may need to be taken for the rest of your life. Diet modifications are also necessary, as well as lifestyle changes, to ensure long-term success.
Read more: Vitamins: Importance After Bariatric Surgery.
The recovery rate and time frame for returning to work after bariatric surgery varies from person to person. Here are some factors that affect the length of your recovery:
1) The Type of Surgery You Choose
Some of the bariatric surgeries you can choose from are:
a) Sleeve Gastrectomy
This procedure involves reducing the size of your stomach to 15-30% of its original size. A sleeve gastrectomy typically takes 2-3 hours and requires a hospital stay of 1-2 days, allowing you to return to work within 3-5 days after surgery.
b) Gastric Bypass
Gastric bypass involves stapling off a large part of your stomach and connecting the small intestine directly to it. This procedure is typically done laparoscopically, meaning recovery time can be as short as 1-2 days, allowing you to return to work within 3-7 days after surgery.
c) Lap Band Surgery
This procedure involves placing a band around your stomach to restrict food intake. This procedure is done with a laparoscope; recovery time can be as short as 1-2 days, allowing you to return to work within 3-7 days after surgery.
2) Your Overall Health
Before returning to work after bariatric surgery, it’s essential to consider your overall physical health and recovery. Giving the body enough time to rest and recover before returning to work. Generally, you should allow yourself two weeks to recover before returning to a routine. However, the amount of time can vary depending on the type of weight loss surgery you had and any complications that may have occurred during or after the procedure.
You should monitor your energy and activity levels to determine when it’s appropriate for you to return to a regular workload. If you start feeling overwhelmed or tired, give yourself more time. It’s also important to follow up with checkups from your bariatric surgeon and dietician to ensure that your recovery is progressing as expected.
3) Mental Preparation
In addition to the physical aspects of recovery, you should prepare yourself mentally for returning to work. This can include setting goals for yourself at work and establishing a new routine. Such preparations can ease the transition from your recovery process back into a full workload. You must also set realistic expectations for yourself as you adjust to your new life and start taking on more responsibility.
4) Following Medication and Diet Guidelines
Bariatric surgery requires a strict diet and medication regimen to ensure that the body is properly healing. You should continue adhering to these guidelines even after returning to work, as this will help speed up your recovery and maintain healthy lifestyle habits. It’s essential to prioritize eating healthy meals and snacks throughout the day.
Call Dr. Ramos Kelly for the best bariatric surgery in Tijuana. Our post-surgery program is designed to help you return to work quickly and safely.
