Prepared by Dr Saeed I Hassan
Congratulations on taking the first step toward a healthier you with Laparoscopic Sleeve gastrectomy! This procedure can transform your life, but success requires commitment, lifestyle changes, and consistent follow-up care. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to expect during your follow-up visits and how to stay on track for the best possible results.
1. Your First Follow-Up (7–10 Days After Surgery)
At this stage, your body is healing, and the focus is on recovery.
What Happens During the Visit:
Your surgeon will check your incision sites for any signs of infection or poor healing.
Vital signs like blood pressure and heart rate will be monitored to ensure you’re recovering well.
You’ll discuss how you’re tolerating your liquid diet and whether you’re staying hydrated.
What You Need to Know:
Stick to Liquids: Continue with clear and full liquids, such as protein shakes, broth, and sugar-free gelatin. Avoid solid or textured foods.
Stay Hydrated: Sip water throughout the day to reach your goal of 1.5–2 liters daily. Avoid gulping or drinking too quickly.
Watch for Warning Signs: Be on the lookout for symptoms like fever, rapid heart rate, severe pain, or vomiting, and report them immediately.
What to Expect Next:Your sutures or staples may be removed if your wounds are healing properly. Your surgeon will adjust any medications if needed and schedule your next visit.
2. The Second Follow-Up (2–3 Weeks After Surgery)
By now, you’re beginning to lose weight and adapt to your new eating habits.
What Happens During the Visit:
Your weight and BMI will be checked to track your progress.
You’ll discuss your protein and fluid intake and how well you’re tolerating puréed foods.
Your emotional adjustment to these changes will also be reviewed.
What You Need to Know:
Transition to Puréed Foods: You can start eating soft foods like scrambled eggs, yogurt, and mashed vegetables. Avoid spicy, acidic, or carbonated foods.
Take Your Supplements: Start your multivitamins, calcium citrate, vitamin D, and iron as prescribed.
Get Moving: Light activities like walking for 20–30 minutes daily can improve your recovery and help with weight loss.
What to Expect Next:If you’re experiencing any discomfort or intolerance to certain foods, your healthcare team will provide guidance. Stick to your dietary plan to ensure a smooth transition to the next phase.
3. One Month Post-Surgery
At this milestone, you’re adjusting to your new lifestyle and experiencing steady weight loss.
What Happens During the Visit:
Your weight and dietary compliance will be assessed to make sure you’re on track.
Any symptoms like dehydration, constipation, or difficulty eating will be addressed.
Your adherence to supplements will be checked.
What You Need to Know:
Introduce Solid Foods: You can now start eating small portions of solid foods like grilled fish, tender chicken, and steamed vegetables. Avoid raw vegetables, tough meats, and bread for now.
Portion Control: Keep your meals to about 1/2 cup and listen to your body’s fullness cues.
Increase Activity: Gradually add more intensity to your physical activity if you’re comfortable.
What to Expect Next:If you hit a weight loss plateau, your team may review your dietary habits and make adjustments to help you move forward.
4. Three Months Post-Surgery
You’ve reached an important milestone where significant weight loss becomes evident.
What Happens During the Visit:
Your weight and BMI will be evaluated, aiming for 15–20% total weight loss by this stage.
Blood tests will be done to check for nutritional deficiencies in vitamins like B12, folate, and calcium.
Emotional and psychological progress will also be discussed.
What You Need to Know:
Focus on Protein: Continue prioritizing protein-rich meals to support your body’s needs.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water remains critical to avoid dehydration.
Seek Support if Needed: Emotional challenges like frustration or body image concerns are normal. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare team or a support group.
What to Expect Next:If any deficiencies are detected, supplements will be adjusted. This is also a good time to discuss long-term goals with your healthcare team.
5. Six Months Post-Surgery
By now, you’re noticing major improvements in your health and quality of life.
What Happens During the Visit:
Your weight and progress toward long-term goals will be assessed, with 25–30% total weight loss as the target.
Improvements in conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea will be evaluated.
Labs will be repeated to ensure no nutritional deficiencies are present.
What You Need to Know:
Maintain Good Habits: Protein-first meals, portion control, and hydration should now feel like second nature.
Exercise Regularly: Incorporate strength training to maintain muscle mass and boost metabolism.
Overcome Plateaus: If weight loss slows, work with your team to identify and address any issues, such as snacking or not getting enough protein.
What to Expect Next:You’re halfway through the year and building the foundation for long-term success. Continue to focus on sustainable lifestyle changes.
6. One Year Post-Surgery
Congratulations on reaching your one-year anniversary! This is a time to celebrate your achievements and set goals for the future.
What Happens During the Visit:
Your weight and BMI will be reviewed, with a goal of 50–60% excess weight loss.
Comprehensive blood tests will screen for deficiencies and any late complications like gallstones or GERD.
Improvements in obesity-related conditions will be evaluated.
What You Need to Know:
Lifelong Habits: Balanced meals, hydration, and regular exercise are key to maintaining your progress.
Continue Supplements: Adhering to your vitamin regimen is crucial to prevent long-term deficiencies.
Seek Support: Emotional and psychological challenges may still arise, so stay connected with support systems.
What to Expect Next:Annual follow-ups will help you maintain your success, monitor for complications, and adjust your plan as needed.
Annual Follow-Ups: Keeping the Momentum
After the first year, regular check-ins with your healthcare team ensure that you stay on track for life. These visits will focus on maintaining your weight, addressing any emerging health concerns, and adjusting your supplementation as needed.
The Road to Long-Term Success
Laparoscopic Sleeve gastrectomy is just the beginning of your journey. Consistent follow-up visits, adherence to dietary guidelines, and a commitment to healthy living are essential for achieving and maintaining your goals. Remember, your healthcare team is here to support you every step of the way!
Your journey is unique, and every step brings you closer to a healthier, happier you. Stay committed and celebrate your milestones along the way!
References
American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS). (2024). Bariatric Surgery Guidelines.
Mechanick, J. I., et al. (2020). Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Perioperative Nutritional, Metabolic, and Nonsurgical Support of Bariatric Surgery Patients.
National Institutes of Health (NIH). (2024). Obesity and Bariatric Surgery: Postoperative Care Recommendations.
Buchwald, H., & Oien, D. M. (2020). "Metabolic/Bariatric Surgery Worldwide 2020." Obesity Surgery Journal.
Comments