Post-Bariatric Surgery: Driving and Core Concerns
Patients need to feel safe and secure when preparing for bariatric surgery. No matter what surgery you’re undergoing, having a ride home and knowing what to expect from post-surgery care will help you get through the procedure with ease.
Hospital Recovery
Knowing how long after weight loss surgery you can drive and other key recovery information will help you rest easy during your post-surgery period. Thankfully, you’ll be unlikely to spend more than a few days in the hospital unless you have received a particularly taxing bariatric surgery.
Shortening Recovery
The question of how soon after bariatric surgery you can drive depends on how well you recover. During the early recovery period, you should focus on keeping yourself occupied, well-rested, and with your pain under control.
Common Side Effects
Many side effects from bariatric surgery are minor, but some may impact whether you can drive. Here is a short summary of the main side effects:
Swelling
Swelling is a key reason patients have to wait after gastric sleeve surgery to drive. The area around the surgical activity will likely remain sore for at least a few days. However, with the use of common pain relievers and at-home icing, you can keep the swelling from becoming too much of a problem.
Nausea and Bowel Issues
Post-bariatric surgery, your bowel movements can experience unexpected fluctuation. Foul-smelling, odd-colored, and irregular bowel movements are notuncommon. Your doctors may suggest that you use particular supplements, including fiber. Knowing how soon you can drive after bariatric surgery will help you avoid the need for painful emergency bathroom stops.
Finding a Driver
How long after bariatric surgery should you wait to drive? Typically, you’ll need to wait 1–2 weeks to drive comfortably and safely. Due to this, you must have a driver prepared to take you home from the operation facility. You’ll need plenty of rest after your procedure, so having a quick and convenient path back to your home is highly recommended. If you need to get out of your home before you can drive, having a friend or family member ready to assist you is best. You can always request a ride from a ride-sharing company.
Reclaiming Your Health
MD Bariatrics has been treating the Baltimore area’s bypass and other bariatric surgery needs for many years. Book an appointment with our professional team today for a Roux-en-Y in Maryland if you’re ready to reclaim your health and lose weight in a safe, effective, and proven fashion.