So you’ve had bariatric surgery. What comes next?
In an interview on WNEM TV’s Medical Moments series, the administrator of the Covenant HealthCare bariatric program, Libby Palmer, helped answer viewers’ questions on Bariatric Surgery. Palmer points out that bariatric surgery is not a quick fix, but requires a long-term, lifetime commitment to proper diet and health management. Fortunately, Covenant HealthCare’s bariatrics program guides patients throughout the entire journey.
The first days after bariatric surgery.
Palmer urges patients to give themselves plenty of rest and recovery time post-surgery. Though some patients go back to work as soon as two weeks after surgery, Palmer says, “We recommend you take at least six weeks off . . . It’s not that you’re in pain . . . it’s just that there’s a lot going on those first few weeks.” What’s going on? Obviously, you are healing from the surgery, but in addition to that, you will be on a liquid diet at first, then gradually phasing in solid foods. Your digestive system will be adjusting to some pretty radical changes over these first days and you’ll receive extensive nutrition counseling from the program.
The long haul.
Palmer emphasizes that bariatric surgery is a long-term commitment. “You have to commit to the lifestyle changes and be willing to make exercise a part of your life.” Patients will see their doctor several times during the first year to monitor their progress, and annually thereafter for the rest of their lives.
Monthly support groups are available for patients at any stage in the bariatric process, and Palmer encourages patients to consult the program any time they have questions or concerns. She says that many patients are embarrassed to admit they’ve gained weight back, or hit a plateau, and won’t consult their doctor. Palmer stresses, “We want them to come back. We need to see them, we want to help.” In fact, the program has a special “Back on Track” class for bariatric patients who have hit a plateau or regained some weight. The class meets once a week for four weeks to support those patients and get them losing again.
Palmer emphasizes the importance of follow-up. “Patients that follow up, that keep coming back, those are the ones that do really well.”
The benefits.
Now for the good stuff! As the pounds drop off, you’ll start to experience significant health benefits, such as:
- Reduced blood pressure
- Improvement or even elimination of diabetes
- Improvement or elimination of sleep apnea
- Improvement/elimination of acid reflux
- Reduced dependence on medications
- Increased physical activity (due to greater ease of movement)
Of course, there are psychological benefits as well. Patients feel better about their appearance and can participate more in life – play with their kids, get outside more with friends and family, etc.
If you think bariatric surgery might be right for you, attend one of our Bariatric Surgery Seminars for more information
If you have any more questions, go to CovenantHealthCare.com/bariatrics or contact Libby Palmer at 989.583.4683 (email: lpalmer@chs-mi.com).
Posted Date: 7/18/2018