This will depend entirely on the type of work you do and the results of the surgery. Most patients who work jobs that involve minimal movement and minimal manual labor can usually return to work in two weeks. However, patients who perform manual labor or have jobs that require a great deal of movement may need to take more time off work (up to four weeks).

Exercise is an important part of any weight loss regimen, and this includes weight loss induced by bariatric surgery. We recommend patients start walking as soon as they’re comfortably able to. However, exercise will need to be limited to brisk walks and exercise biking in low settings. Patients can start swimming as soon as the surgeon has assessed that the wounds have healed. Distance running and weight training should be held off until at least four weeks after surgery, and even then, should be held off until the patient gets the doctor’s approval.

Patients will be advised to take a multivitamin, which includes both vitamin and mineral supplements. Patients are also advised to take protein supplements in order to meet protein goals. Insurance typically will not cover supplement costs; however, you can pay for them from a Flex or HAS medical account. Flex and HAS medical accounts are accounts taken from your pre-tax income that can be used to pay for medical expenses.

The answer is yes. After surgery, you will be put on a highly restrictive post-op diet, which slowly reintroduces foods as it becomes safe for your body to digest them. After the post-op diet, you will be given support to help you eat the right foods. Although surgery makes it hard to overeat while reducing the body’s ability to absorb calories, there is a risk that the patient will fall back into old behaviors. For this reason, we provide support, including a monthly in-person support group, online support, and help from dietitians who are knowledgeable about the nutritional needs of bariatric surgery patients.

An exercise regimen is highly recommended, and patients who exercise are much more likely to be satisfied with their results.