Recovering After Weight Loss Surgery in Las Vegas, NV

Bariatric surgery is a major procedure, and recovery doesn't happen overnight. Therefore, it's important to follow Dr. Umbach's postoperative recovery instructions.

Recovery takes effort. The diet is strict. Your body is trying to heal. Your weight is beginning to adjust. The recovery stage of the process becomes easier once you start to see positive changes. The timing varies by patient. Some of our Las Vegas Lap Band surgery patients begin to lose pounds within days of their surgery. For others, a couple of months go by before they see noticeable weight loss. With courage and a circle of support, you can make it through recovery.

Postoperative Pain and Discomfort
Many people think that bariatric surgery will be followed by a long and painful recovery period. However, postsurgery patients usually do not have that experience. In fact, many patients who were interviewed spoke of discomfort and soreness rather than pain. Recovery does, however, vary from patient to patient.

Being out of Commission
As with any major surgery, there will be a recovery period when you'll have to take it easy. Remember that this is a necessary step, and the better care you take during recovery, the more likely and quickly you'll return to normal activity. Recovery time varies from patient to patient and is also based on the type of surgery you have.

You can expect to be up and moving within hours of your weight loss surgery. While you may move slowly at first, many patients have found that each day often brings improvements. Many patients return to normal activities quickly, such as driving, cooking, and caring for children.

Whether it's family, friends, or coworkers, build a support network for all aspects of your life. Those supporting you are dedicated to helping you achieve better health and wellness. Show your appreciation by accepting their help and allowing yourself to heal.

How soon will I be able to walk?
Soon after surgery, you will be required to get up and move around. Patients are walked around the floor within hours after surgery. And patients are expected to walk several more times prior to discharge from the hospital. Upon leaving the hospital, you will be able to care for all of your personal needs, including light shopping and lifting.

How soon can I drive?
You should not drive until you have stopped taking pain medications associated with surgery, and can move quickly and alertly. Usually, this takes seven to fourteen days after surgery.

When can I go back to my normal activity levels?
Dr. Umbach encourages patients to return to normal activity quickly after surgery. There is no danger to you by performing normal light everyday activities, such as walking, cooking, and shopping. Most patients find it enjoyable to begin a light exercise program soon after discharge from the hospital. In fact, an early return to activity is important for a safe and speedy recovery. One important point is that while taking narcotic pain medication, patients should not drive or operate machinery. Return to work is based upon your own personal recovery and the demands of your job. Patients often begin light office work on Monday, the week after surgery.

Should I use birth control?
It is strongly advised that women of childbearing age use the most effective forms of birth control during the first 16 to 24 months after bariatric surgery.