FAQ

The amount of time you will be out varies dependening on the type of work you do. In most cases patients may return to work 1 week after surgery with light duty restrictions. Light duty meaning no lifting, pushing, pulling over 10lbs and no excessive twisting, stretching, bending or climbing.

For general surgery patients, you will be seen 1-2 weeks after surgery and may require additional visits depending on the type of surgery and recovery. For weight loss surgery patients you will be seen at 1 week, 1 month , 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year after surgery.

Patients with a high Body Mass Index may require follow up surgery in order to reach their weight loss goals. Complications from stomach stapling may occur. Other risks and complications may include; deep vein thrombosis, ulcers, gastric leakage and fistula, pulmonary embolus, ulcers & dyspepsia. Following adjustable gastric banding, patients consume a liquid–only diet and gradually resume consumption of solid foods according to their specific weight management plan. The first fill is not made until the stomach heals from surgery, approximately six weeks following surgery. Adjustments to the gastric band are made four to six times in the first year, in order to ensure optimal fit and encourage continued weight loss. Band adjustments are painless and generally made during a regular office visit. Weight loss associated with the LAP–BAND® is more gradual than with some other weight loss surgeries, about five to 10 pounds a month.

Aside from reducing the risk of life-threatening obesity–related conditions, weight loss surgery patients also report increased energy and resumption of physical activity, a more positive outlook, and improved self-image. Weight loss surgery combined with a life–long commitment to a healthier, more active lifestyle will improve the overall quality of life.

Following weight loss surgery, the quality of your diet will change. Weight loss surgery patients are encouraged to consume a nutritional diet that is low in fat and sugar and high in protein. The resumption of solid food is gradual. Patients generally begin with clear liquids and build slowly to a regular, low-–fat diet as tolerated. This progression reduces post-surgical complications and builds gastrointestinal tolerance and successful recovery. Immediately following the weight loss procedure, patients will sip approximately one to two ounces of clear liquids every hour. This may include water, flavored broth, sugar–free fruit–flavored beverages, and decaffeinated, non–carbonated drinks. During the first month, bariatric patients slowly progress to semi–solid, low–fiber foods – building to a regular diet of smaller proportions. While portions at each stage of recovery will increase, they should always remain relatively small – approximately eight ounces, or one cup, per meal. Gastrointestinal tolerance and food sensitivities following weight loss surgery will vary among individuals. Patients are encouraged to slowly resume foods eaten prior to weight loss surgery, in order to assess how well they are tolerated following the procedure. A clinical dietitian will meet prior to surgery in order to discuss post-surgery and ongoing dietary changes, as well as review nutrition education handouts designed specifically for bariatric patients.

Some hair loss is common between 3 and 6 months following surgery. The reasons for this are not totally understood. Even if you take all recommended supplements, hair loss will be noticed until the follicles come back. Hair loss is almost always temporary. Adequate intake of protein, vitamins, and minerals will help to ensure hair re-growth and avoid longer-term thinning.

Bariatric surgery patients are at risk for malnutrition. Vitamin supplements may be required as part of an ongoing, lifelong nutritional program, as weight loss surgery restricts caloric intake and changes food tolerances, inhibiting the absorption of important vitamins and minerals required daily. In order to permit weight loss and sustain optimal health, vitamin and protein supplementation may be recommended. The weight loss team of licensed dieticians and Dr. Wadiwala, along with the type of surgical procedure performed, will determine which type of supplement program should be incorporated into your diet after assessing your specific health goals and nutritional needs.

Some insurance companies may require a pre-surgical diet program as part of the criteria that must be met before qualifying for weight loss surgery. This may entail a three to six–month program that includes consulting with a registered dietitian on healthy eating and the type of lifestyle changes required following weight loss surgery. The program focuses on exercise, healthy food selection, and meal planning as well as behavior modification. The pre–surgical diet program is intended to: Assess diet history and develop a personalized plan for improving nutrition and dietary habits prior to surgery. Educate and prepare for the nutrition and lifestyle changes required for life following bariatric surgery. Establish patient responsibility in diet and lifestyle choices by closely monitoring progress while empowering patients. Require demonstrated nutrition and behavior changes at the end of the three or six-month program Your bariatric surgeon may also order a pre–surgical nutrition program if weight loss is required prior to surgery – time frame and/or weight loss goals determined by the surgeon and based on each patient’s particular situation.

The general answer to this is yes. Make sure to tell your surgeon and anesthesiologist about all prior operations, especially those on your abdomen and pelvis. Many of us forget childhood operations. It is best to avoid surprises! Sometimes your surgeon may ask to see the operative report from complicated or unusual procedures, especially those on the esophagus, stomach, or bowels.

The general answer to this is yes. Make sure to tell your surgeon and anesthesiologist about all prior operations, especially those on your abdomen and pelvis. Many of us forget childhood operations. It is best to avoid surprises!

Sometimes your surgeon may ask to see the operative report from complicated or unusual procedures, especially those on the esophagus, stomach, or bowels.

Yes, but you may need medical clearance from your cardiologist. Bariatric surgery leads to improvement in most problems related to heart disease including:

• High Blood Pressure
• Cholesterol
• Lipid problems
• Heart enlargement (dilated heart, or abnormal thickening)
• Vascular (artery and vein) and coronary (heart artery) disease

During the screening process, be sure to let your surgeon or nurse know about any heart conditions you have. Even those with atrial fibrillation, heart valve replacement, or previous stents or heart bypass surgery usually do very well. If you are on blood thinners of any type, expect special instructions just before and after surgery.