Advanced Surgical and Weight Loss Institute, Melbourne, FL’s premier weight loss surgical facility, specializes in gastric bypass, bariatric surgery and more. We are under the helm of Dr. Velarde, a board-certified general surgeon with over 10 years of experience performing bariatric surgery, and we know that the decision to undergo weight loss surgery is not one that you come to lightly. You did your research. You met with our team. You chose us to partner with you on your weight loss journey and we are grateful that you did so. Your success, lifelong success, is our mission. One of the most challenging aspects of permanent weight loss is the time spent in recovery post-operation. Your eating habits and lifestyle choices will have to change if you expect to see long-term success.

Advanced Surgical and Weight Loss Institute specializes in laparoscopic surgery. This method involves the use of small, precise tools and video cameras to create small incisions from which the surgeon works. We offer three types of bariatric surgery: Lap Band, Gastric Sleeve, and Gastric Bypass. All of these are performed laparoscopically and because of this, the recovery time from the procedure itself is decreased. Post-surgery, most can expect to spend 2 or 3 days in the hospital so that your healing and progress can be monitored. A full recovery from your surgical procedure can take anywhere from a few days to 6 weeks. You may be able to return to work in as little as 3 days although it may be several weeks for others. This will depend upon your condition beforehand, how well you adhere to your physician’s advice and other factors. Be sure that you take post-op advice seriously to avoid recovery complications.

Many patients are worried about what their pain levels will be like after surgery. According to Bariatric Surgery Source, your experience will be uniquely your own. While in the hospital, you will most likely have an IV to support recovery. Once you are discharged, over-the-counter meds and/or prescriptions will be used. Some will have mild discomfort easily treated with over-the-counter medication while others will need prescription pain medications to help them progress. Be sure to follow the doctor’s pain management protocol and express any concerns you may have. The great news is that you should be pain-free in no more than 2 to 3 weeks. If you are not, contact your doctor! You may experience bouts of nausea and constipation as you recover. Unfortunately, this is often part of the process that comes along with bariatric procedures. Your body will be adjusting and it is important that you make note of what you eat and how you eat it. Determine what reactions you are having and speak with your doctor about them.

Your diet will definitely change as you recover. Because of the stress on your body and the new constraints on your digestive system, your doctor will prescribe a liquid diet for a period of time.  You will begin with clear liquids and SLOWLY transition to solid foods in reduced portions carefully assessing your body’s ability to handle the changes along the way. You will also need to make sure you are hydrated during this time. Your surgical team will have a plan for you so follow it!

We want to see you succeed and know that permanent weight loss is entirely possible. If you would like more information, please contact our Brevard County office today.