It can be scary to think about having a gastric bypass surgery no matter what kind you are getting. Surgery is something that is hard on the body and takes time to recover. When it comes to having a successful bariatric surgery, there are some essential items you need post-op. Below, you will find my list of post-op bariatric surgery essentials for your recovery.
Post Op Bariatric Surgery Essentials
After your bariatric surgery, you are in a lot of pain. It’s kind of like when you have a baby; you have to push that kid out, but in the process, you don’t think you can do it. That’s kind of how it is after your bariatric surgery; you know the end goal is worth it, but you just don’t know how you are going to get there. With that being said, some of the things that got me through the one week after gastric bypass slump were these very important essentials. Here are some things you want to have ready before you even go into surgery:
#1 Somewhere Comfy to Sit
Obviously your bariatric surgery requires recovery. This means lots of rest and relaxation. I found that a recliner was the most comfortable. You can sit down easily, get up easily, and even lie back when you get tired. Make sure you have a spot that is just dedicated to you post-op.
Along with having a comfy place to sit, relax, and rest, you will want to have some essentials next to you. These include:
- House shoes or slippers
- Blankets
- A lap desk to get stuff done
- Your favorite pillow
#2 Gas-X
When you get any kind of surgery, they pump your body full of gas so they can see what they are doing. This means post-op bariatric surgery you are one gasey beast. One of my lifesavers was having a lot of Gas-X on hand post-op.
#3 A Heating Pad
As stated above, surgery is not all peaches N cream. You will have lots of aches and pains. However, one thing that really helped with my pain was using a heating pad. Make sure you have one set up next to your comfy spot.
#4 Small Sippy Cups
After bariatric surgery, you have to start out slow. This means you can only sip one ounce of fluid at a time. Sippy cups come in handy so you don’t drink too much at a time. I would recommend getting sippy cups that are divided into ounces to like these to make it easier.
#5 Protein Drinks and Fluids
The biggest thing you need after any surgery is protein. However, you can’t just go chow down on a steak post-op. So, make sure you have stocked up on some protein shakes, protein liquids or even protein jello to get you recovering quickly. Not only are these great for recovery, but you don’t have to make it.
Related: What to Eat After Gastric Bypass Surgery
#6 Post Op Bariatric Surgery Food Essentials
In addition to having essentials to help you with your recovery, you want to be prepared when you get home with food. Here are a few essentials you will want to help you with your food preparations:
Related: Gastric Bypass and the Pureed Blended Diet
In addition to having your essentials, make sure you have your entertainment readily available. I would suggest having books, chargers, magazines, and other things you need to do next to your recliner chair.
If you can think of any other post-op bariatric surgery essentials, please add them to the comments section!
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