Beyond Surgery
Post Surgery Information
Texas Weight Management Program’s medical team of physicians, nurses, dieticians, physical therapists, pharmacists, respiratory therapists and patient advocates will provide support for your weight-loss following surgery. Prior to discharge you will be provided individualized instruction for immediate and ongoing post-surgical care.
Part of your post-surgical care package includes:- A discounted membership to a specific fitness center
- Personalized diet plan designed by your physician and a registered dietician
- 1-year subscription to a supportive lifestyle magazine
- Physician recommended cookbook
- List of available support groups in your area
- Immediately after surgery, your doctor will provide you with special dietary guidelines. You will need to follow these guidelines closely. Many surgeons begin patients with liquid diets, moving to semi-solid foods and later, sometimes weeks or months later, solid foods can be tolerated without risk to the surgical procedure performed. Allowing time for proper healing of your new stomach pouch is necessary and important.
- When able to eat solids, eat 2-3 meals per day, no more. Protein in the form of lean meats (chicken, turkey, fish) and other low-fat sources should be eaten first. These should comprise at least half the volume of the meal eaten. Foods should be cooked without fat and seasoned to taste. Avoid sauces, gravies, butter, margarine, mayonnaise and junk foods.
- Never eat between meals. Do not drink flavored beverages, even diet soda, between meals.
- Drink 2-3 quarts or more of water each day. Water must be consumed slowly, 1-2 mouthfuls at a time, due to the restrictive effect of the operation.
- Exercise aerobically every day for at least 20 minutes (one-mile brisk walk, bike riding, stair climbing, etc.). Weight/resistance exercise can be added 3-4 days per week, as instructed by your doctor.
