How Long Does Gastric Bypass Surgery Take? Your Hospital and Recovery Timeline

If you are considering gastric bypass surgery in Baltimore, you likely have a lot of questions. One of the most common questions is “how long does gastric bypass surgery take?”

This blog post will answer that question and give you an idea of what to expect during your hospital stay and recovery timeline. Keep in mind that every patient’s experience is different, so be sure to speak with your doctor about your specific situation.

Surgery Prep

Our explanation on how long gastric bypass is starts in the hours before your procedure. The day of your surgery, you will show up at the hospital and start your surgery prep. This usually involves getting changed into a hospital gown and meeting with your surgical team. They will go over the procedure with you one more time and answer any final questions you may have. You will also be given a sedative to help you relax before surgery.

The Surgery Itself

Gastric bypass surgery usually takes between two and four hours, depending on the individual case. Once you are under anesthesia, the surgeon will make small incisions in your stomach and intestines. Then, they will reroute a portion of your digestive system so that food bypasses part of your stomach and goes straight to your small intestine. After this is done, they will close up the incisions with stitches or staples.

Focus on your finances now. Read Does Insurance Cover Gastric Bypass Surgery?

The Recovery Room

After surgery, you will be taken to the recovery room where you will be closely monitored. You will likely have a tube in your nose to help you breathe and an IV in your arm to give you fluids and pain medication. You will stay in the recovery room for one to two hours until you are awake and stable enough to be moved to a regular hospital room.

Your Hospital Stay

Most people stay in the hospital for two to three days after surgery. During this time, you will continue to receive IV fluids and pain medication. You will also start on a liquid diet, which gradually progresses to soft foods as your body heals. The dietitian will work with you to make sure you are getting enough nutrition during this time.

You will also have regular check-ups with your surgeon to make sure everything is healing properly. Before you are discharged, they will go over your post-surgery diet and activity level. They will also give you a list of follow-up appointments to schedule.

Recovery at Home

After you leave the hospital, you will continue to recover at home. It is important to take it easy during this time and not do too much too soon. You should avoid lifting anything heavy or exercising for at least six weeks. Gradually increase your activity level as your body heals.

It is normal to feel tired and have some pain during this time. Be sure to take your pain medication as prescribed and get plenty of rest. You should also drink lots of fluids and eat a healthy diet.

You will likely have follow-up appointments with your surgeon during this time. They will check your incisions, weight, and overall progress. Be sure to keep these appointments and let your surgeon know if you are having any problems.

Ready to schedule your procedure? Talk to us about gastric bypass and gastric sleeve surgery in Baltimore.