Recovering from Bariatric Surgery Washington DC

Because there are many different types of weight loss surgeries available today, the expectations for a "typical" recovery can be a bit varied.  It is also useful to keep in mind that each individual patient's body and pain tolerance are different, so each recovery will be a bit unique.  However, there are a few things that can be generalized about the process.

Bariatric Surgery Washington DC, regardless of the type undertaken, is most often done laparoscopically.  This means that the surgeon makes only a few small incisions in the abdomen and then inserts special surgical instruments.  Small cameras that allow the viewing of the surgical field are also introduced into the patient's abdomen.

Bariatric surgery doctors Washington DC

Bariatric surgery options Washington DC, when performed laparoscopically, generally result in a 2-3 day inpatient hospital stay.  Specialists in this area of medical practice indicate that when a laparoscopic procedure is impossible, with a full, open-abdomen incision being necessary, more time in the hospital will be required.  Patients most often return to normal activities within about a month.

These are some possible complications of which post-operative bariatric surgery DC patients should aware:

• Dumping syndrome is a common side effect in early recovery from these types of surgery.  It causes uncontrollable diarrhea, vomiting, or both, after meals.  It is not usually dangerous unless it goes on for such a long time the patient becomes weak, light-headed, or dehydrated.  Risk for dumping syndrome can be managed by avoiding high sugar meals and beverages.
• Care of the surgical incisions site(s) is of the utmost importance after surgery.  Infections can happen up to a month after discharge from the hospital.  Taking any prescribed antibiotics as directed, and cleaning/dressing the incisions correctly are things patients can do to reduce the risk of infection.
• Constipation is fairly common after any surgery that changes the configuration of the digestive system.  Most bariatric surgery Washington DC specialists will prepare patients for this possibility, sending them home with appropriate laxatives or other medications.  Avoiding high fiber foods can also help to eliminate the frequency of bouts of constipation, or reduce their frequency.