Life After Surgery

Depending on the surgery you choose, you will need to follow a strict diet after your procedure. It is important you meet with the bariatric team after surgery to make sure you are getting the proper nutrition to stay healthy.

Post-Surgery Diet

You will receive instructions from the registered dietitian regarding your diet advancement after surgery. You will be on liquid nutrition for the first weeks after surgery. Your diet will advance to pureed/soft foods and then to solid foods over time. If you eat too fast or too much, you will likely have stomach pain or even vomiting. You will be encouraged to listen to your body and stop eating when you feel full.

Psychology

You will meet with the psychologist within the first 3 months after surgery to see how you are adjusting to your new lifestyle. The psychologist will work with you to help you meet your goals after surgery.

Nutrition Visits

Ongoing nutrition education is needed to support long-term success. After surgery, you will meet with the dietitian at one week, one month, three months, six months, and each year. During these visits we will talk about what you are eating, provide support, and guide you in making continued lifestyle changes. We will also evaluate your labs to be sure you are meeting your nutrition needs to keep you healthy.

Surgeon Visits

You will meet with the surgeon 1 week after surgery, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, 12 months and then annually to discuss your weight loss and progress after surgery. You will have blood work done to check for any vitamin/mineral deficiencies.

Cosmetic Surgery

After losing your weight, you may have excess skin. Cosmetic surgery to remove excess skin is not required, but may be considered 12-18 months after weight loss surgery. It is recommended you check with your insurance company to ask if cosmetic/reconstructive surgery is covered by your plan.

If you would like to be considered for cosmetic surgery or have questions about what this would involve, contact OMC’s Plastic Surgery department at 507.529.6740.