Sleeve gastrectomy (sleeve gastrectomy) is an effective and common method in the fight against obesity. The success of the surgery largely depends on the lifestyle changes applied afterwards. Assoc. Prof. Hakan Uzunoğlu, one of the expert surgeons in this field in Istanbul, guides his patients in the postoperative process and ensures that they have a healthy recovery period. In this article, we will discuss the processes and things to be considered after sleeve gastrectomy surgery.
Recovery Process After Gastric Sleeve Gastrectomy
The recovery process after sleeve gastrectomy may vary from patient to patient, but in general, recovery proceeds in the following stages.
First Days Hospitalization
After surgery, the patient is usually hospitalized for 1-3 days. During this period, doctors check the general health status of the patient and possible postoperative complications. In the first days after sleeve gastrectomy, nutrition with liquid foods starts and the transition to solid foods is realized over time as the stomach heals.
First Week Liquid Diet Period
During the first week after surgery, only liquid foods are consumed. These include water, broth, vegetable broth and sugar-free drinks. The stomach is still in the healing process and overeating should be avoided during this period. Assoc. Dr. Hakan Uzunoğlu, who performs sleeve gastrectomy surgery in Istanbul, offers special nutrition programs to his patients during this period and helps the stomach to gradually return to its normal function.
Second and Third Week: Pureed Foods Period
In the second and third weeks after surgery, patients start to consume pureed foods. Soft foods such as yogurt, mashed potatoes and vegetable purees facilitate digestion. During this period, hard foods that will strain the stomach should be avoided.
Previously published guidelines for gastric sleeve surgery What is Gastric Sleeve Gastrectomy? You can read our article.
Things to Consider After Gastric Sleeve Gastrectomy
There are some things to consider after surgery. These recommendations are critical to speed up the healing process and support the weight loss process.
Slow Eating and Small Portions
Since the volume of the stomach shrinks considerably after surgery, it is important to eat slowly and in small portions. Eating fast can strain the stomach and cause discomfort. For this reason, food should be eaten slowly and chewed well at each meal.
Avoid Fatty and Sugary Foods
Fatty and sugary foods can negatively affect weight loss after surgery. Gaining healthy and balanced eating habits after surgery supports the weight loss process and helps to maintain health in the long term.
Exercise and Physical Activity After Gastric Sleeve Gastrectomy
Exercise after sleeve gastrectomy not only accelerates the weight loss process but also positively affects overall health. However, doctor’s advice should be sought before starting exercises and the exercise program should be increased gradually.
First Week Light Walks
In the first weeks after surgery, light walking is recommended. This contributes to the healing process by increasing blood circulation. Walking for 20-30 minutes a day from the first week onwards has a positive effect on both body recovery and mental health.
After Recovery Regular Exercise Program
After full recovery from surgery, a doctor-recommended exercise program should be followed. This program usually starts with low-impact exercises and progresses to more intense activities over time. Assoc. Dr. Hakan Uzunoğlu, who specializes in this field in Istanbul, supports the weight loss process by regularly checking the physical activity of his patients.
Frequently Asked Questions After Gastric Sleeve Gastrectomy
How Much Weight Is Lost After Gastric Sleeve Gastrectomy?
There is a rapid weight loss during the first six months after surgery. Patients usually lose 50-70% of their excess weight within the first year after surgery. However, long-term success depends on how patients eat and how much physical activity they do in the postoperative period.
Is Vitamin and Mineral Supplementation Necessary After Surgery?
Yes. After sleeve gastrectomy, the body may not absorb some vitamins and minerals sufficiently. Therefore, doctors usually recommend vitamin and mineral supplements in the postoperative period. Especially vitamin B12, iron and calcium supplements are frequently used.
The period after sleeve gastrectomy is a period that requires attention and discipline. Proper eating habits, regular exercise and compliance with the doctor’s recommendations ensure that weight loss is successful and the long-term effects of the surgery are preserved. Patients who are guided by an experienced surgeon such as Assoc. Prof. Hakan Uzunoğlu in Istanbul are supported in the best way in the postoperative process. It is very important to manage the post sleeve gastrectomy period correctly for a healthy life. This article contains important information to help you plan the postoperative period. You can contact Assoc. Dr. Hakan Uzunoğlu for more information about sleeve gastrectomy surgery.
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