Deciding to have surgery to help with weight loss is not an easy task. If you are currently doing the research, you may have a lot of questions. The first questions are probably what type of gastric weight loss surgery is right for me and how long does it take to recover. Today we are going to focus on gastric sleeve surgery recovery time.
Even though each person has their own unique situation, there are many things that everyone wants and needs to be aware of. Everyone wants to know how long it will take them to recover, how long they will miss work (many people are hourly and so missing work comes with a large financial impact), and when they will be able to resume their normal daily routine. It is important to ask your surgeon any questions you may have so you make the best, most informed decision for you and your circumstances.
Following is a high-level overview of recovery timelines for weight loss surgery types to help aid you in your decision and planning process. Each person’s recovery will be a unique experience and will depend on their overall health, the procedure used, post-op aftercare, and lifestyle changes.
Choosing between types of gastric surgery? Read Gastric Sleeve Vs. Gastric Bypass: Procedure and Recovery.
Most of today’s weight-loss surgeries are minimally invasive, have quicker recovery times, and fewer complications. Because most weight-loss surgeries today are performed laparoscopically patients may even be able to go home the same day, while others might have a two to a three-day hospital stay.
Three Weight Loss Procedures and Associated Recovery Times
Gastric sleeve most often requires a hospital stay of 2 to 3 days. It will take about 4 to 6 weeks for a full gastric sleeve recovery and most people can normally go back to work after about two weeks.
Gastric bypass normally requires at least overnight in the hospital but can be up to 3 days. It will take about 4 to 6 weeks for a full recovery and most people typically go back to work anywhere from one to three weeks.
Gastric banding – patients may be able to return home the same day or may need to stay overnight in the hospital. It will take about 4 to 6 weeks for a full recovery and most people can normally resume their work schedule in about a week or so.
What to Expect During Gastric Surgery Recovery
Even though you can go back to work after your surgery please be aware that you will probably not have your usual pep and energy. It is probably best to start with half-days and work your way back up to full days. Your surgeon will provide you with ongoing information regarding getting back to work and your daily routines. Taking good care of yourself after surgery is key in ensuring the results of your surgery and your ability to resume your normal activity.
After your surgery, you will be instructed to take short non-strenuous walks (you may still be in the hospital) to help alleviate the pain and discomfort that normally occurs after gastric surgery. During the first 30 days after your Gastric surgery, your surgeon will want you to avoid high-impact activities or sports. You can do low-impact exercise or household duties while building up your tolerance over the next few months until you are resuming your normal activities.
Read next about gastric sleeve recovery: What To Eat or Not To Eat After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
If you have questions or concerns about types of weight loss surgery or what to expect from a weight loss surgery procedure, please give our office a call or schedule a consultation today.
Angelina Postoev, MD, FACS, a triple board-certified cosmetic surgeon, and Christopher Ibikunle, MD, FACS, offer gastric surgery to men and women in Lawrenceville, Suwanee, Johns Creek, Buckhead, and other surrounding areas of Atlanta, Georgia.
