Bariatric Discharge Instructions

Please review the following guidelines carefully and follow them to ensure a safe recovery.

Normal Symptoms (First 1–2 Weeks After Surgery)

It is common to experience:

• Nausea
• Soreness
• Vomiting or spitting up
• Diarrhea
• Constipation during the first week
• Pressure in the chest or shoulder pain (from surgical gas)
• Sore throat (from the breathing tube during surgery)

When to Call the Office Immediately

Contact us right away if you notice:

• Fever above 100.1°F with chills or shaking
• Severe abdominal pain not relieved by pain medication
• Sudden, severe chest pain or shortness of breath
• No bowel movement for more than 7 days
• Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
• Significant drainage, swelling, or redness at incision sites
• Bleeding from incisions that does not stop
• Pain, swelling, redness, or tightness in the leg or foot
• Inability to urinate 6–8 hours after surgery
• Lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting

Hydration – Your #1 Priority

• Women: at least 48 oz fluids/day
• Men: at least 64 oz fluids/day
• Sip slowly and take small amounts at a time
• Avoid straws and large gulps
• Cold liquids are usually easier to tolerate

Get up every hour, walk a few laps around the house, and use your incentive spirometer for 3 deep-breathing exercises. This will:

• Relieve surgical gas (burping and passing gas is normal)
• Reduce the risk of blood clots

Incision Care

• After 48 hours, remove the surgical garment and wash your abdomen with antibacterial soap and a sponge
• A small amount of blood on the garment is normal; if it becomes soaked, call the office
• Only shower until cleared for baths, swimming, or hot tubs
• Wash gently in small circular motions to protect incision sites

Binder Use

• Wear your binder for 1 month after surgery
• Helps reduce abdominal discomfort and supports healing
• You do not need to wear it while sleeping

Medications & Home Care

• Take pain and nausea medications as prescribed for the first 3 days, then as needed
• Medications larger than a pinhead must be crushed or in liquid form for the first month
• If you take diabetes or blood pressure medication: check your blood glucose or pressure before each dose
• Continue using your CPAP or BiPAP unless instructed otherwise by your doctor

Activity

• No lifting more than 10 pounds for the first 2 weeks
• Avoid abdominal exercises until cleared by your provider
• First month: begin with daily walking → progress to power walking or light jogging