Bariatric surgery is a life-changing procedure. Following your doctor’s post-operation instructions and making healthy lifestyle changes are essential to avoiding complications and achieving long-term weight loss success. 

Patients should expect to have a new lifestyle that combines healthy eating, exercise, and attending regular visits with their healthcare providers. They should also consider these dos and don’ts after bariatric surgery: 

• What you should do after bariatric surgery: 

• • Eat slowly and chew food well 

• • Aim to drink 64oz of fluids daily, taking small sips 

• • Eat 60g or more of protein daily, starting every meal with it 

• • Make fruits and vegetables the priority of your diet 

• • Start walking for five minutes every hour after surgery 

• • Aim for a goal of 30 minutes of exercise daily after it is allowed to do so 

• • Take all medications and supplements as prescribed, they will need to be taken for the rest of your lifetime 

• What you shouldn’t do after bariatric surgery: 

• • Skip any meals 

• • Eat red meat early in recovery 

• • Engage in any strenuous activities 

• • Lift any objects over 10 lbs. for the first four to six weeks after surgery 

• • Eat fast food 

• • Eat or drink anything with natural sugar 

• • Drink liquids within 30 minutes after eating 

• • Eat bread, rice, pasta, bagels, or dumplings 

• • Allow yourself to get too hungry 

• • Take a bath or go swimming for two weeks after surgery 

• • Smoke cigarettes or drink alcohol 

• • Eat snacks loaded with empty calories 

• • Get pregnant for 12 to 18 months after surgery 

• • Stop taking medications as directed by your healthcare provider 

Bariatric surgery can be a life-changing and life-altering event for those who are trying to lose weight and live a healthier lifestyle. Making diet changes, modifying exercise routine, and following the guidelines set by your healthcare provider and surgical team can lead you to long-term success. 

For more information about the Bariatric Surgery Services at Flushing Hospital or procedures performed by our doctors, please call 718-408-6977 or 718-670-8908. 

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.