This is a question which all patients should ask as it could affect them after their weight loss surgery.

OTC and Prescription drugs can be absorbed differently after your bariatric surgery.  It really depends on the exact procedure that you had.  It’s important to be aware of this.  Right after your weight loss surgery, if you have had the lap band procedure, it will be recommended that you do not take pills as they could become trapped in your band.  There are different forms of medication such as liquid form or you can crush your pills.  If they pill tastes terrible, it can be taken with food at the same time.

VSG patients do not have to worry about the absorption of medications as it will have little to no change in the absorption post op.  Gastric Bypass patients and Duodenal Switch patients will have a more significant change in how your body absorbs medications after surgery and a higher dose of medications may be administered by your Dr. to counter-balance this.  You need to be vocal and let your Dr. know your worries and concerns.  All changes in your medications need to be discussed with your GP as this is not something you should be doing by yourself.

It is advised by most surgeons to avoid taking NSAIDS (non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) after Gastric Bypass surgery as this can lead to stomach irritation and ulcers – and consuming these medications can lead to a Marginal Ulcer which can bleed or perforate.  These types of ulcers are repairable and not fatal but they can cause months of problems.  There are alternative medications which can be taken with less chances of complications.

Post surgery most patients will require an antacid prescribed for 4 to 6 weeks post op weight loss surgery.  If your surgeon prescribes this for you, please do take it.  It will help with healing and reduce the amount of acid with your tummy produces.

Check with your Surgeon to be sure of his/ her rules and regulations for medications before you have bariatric surgery in order to be well prepared posts operatively.

Bariatric Options:                                       Medical Form

Gastric Balloon                                                        
Lap Band
Mini Gastric Bypass
Full Gastric Bypass
Gastric Sleeve
Gastric Plication Surgery
Conversion or Revision SurgeryDuodenal Switch Surgery

              Dr. Sergio Verboonen

Much success in your journey.

Respectfully,
International Patient Facilitators – Cancun and Tijuana, Mexico
On behalf of Dr. Sergio Verboonen
info@ipf-mail.com

1 800 210 5124 

Important for your Surgery Success.

After bariatric surgery you’re preparing for a new chapter in your life. A chapter that includes healthy eating choices and regular exercise, resulting in a new and improved you!

For the first couple weeks after surgery you should focus on your recovery before beginning your exercise routine. Once you feel up to it, you can begin with low impact exercises such as:

Walking  – Although it’s one of the simplest things you can do, it’s also one of the most effective ways to begin building up your stamina.  Slowly work yourself up until you can easily take a 30 minute walk.

By one month after surgery you should be able to start some more challenging exercises such as Cycling and Water aerobics.

At two months post op it’s time to hit the gym.  Strength training is essential to losing weight after bariatric surgery. At this stage you can begin strength training at least 3 times a week.

Taking responsibility post op. 

Start out slow.  This is a time to celebrate your healthy, new lifestyle. All of your hard work now will result in many more healthy and happier years to come.

You and only you have control over your own bariatric surgery destiny. Success with bariatric surgery depends on planning and hard work. The more you are involved and the more responsibility you take throughout the process, the better you can do. 

Bariatric Options:                                                       Medical Form

Gastric Balloon
Lap Band
Mini Gastric Bypass
Full Gastric Bypass
Gastric Sleeve
Gastric Plication Surgery
Conversion or Revision Surgery
Duodenal Switch Surgery

 Dr. Sergio Verboonen

Much success in your journey.

Respectfully,
International Patient Facilitators – Cancun and Tijuana, Mexico
On behalf of Dr. Sergio Verboonen
info@ipf-mail.com

1 800 210 5124 

Once patients are newly operated, they begin to delve into the world of “post weight loss surgery” and all the rules that should be followed.  

One big, important issue is “How much protein? How can I get it? Where can I find it?”

The correct answer to this question is: 60 to 80 grams per day.  

Some patients require a bit more depending on the procedure they chose and their response to that specific surgery.

Protein should not be taken all in one setting.  It should be taken throughout the day in different doses or healthy snacks or meals.  It’s not possible for our body to absorb all that protein in one sitting.  We can absorb about 25 to 30 grams in one sitting.   

Protein is a nutrient which will get us to feel fuller for a longer period of time. We should try to include our protein in every sitting so we are less likely to feel hungry throughout the day.

There are so many options to get your protein in.  You have meat, chicken, eggs, dairy products, and beans.  If you want to supplement to meet your protein needs, you can use protein shakes or bars. 

It’s a good idea to calculate your daily intake of protein to be sure you are not falling short.  As you are able to eat larger portions and you are able to tolerate more “normal foods”, it’s best to use real food and supplement less.

Protein is important because the body requires additional protein during the period of “rapid weight loss” to maintain muscle mass.  If you do not consume sufficient protein, your body will use the protein from your muscles and you will become frail.

Please eat your protein 😉 

Bariatric Options:                                                       Medical Form

Gastric Balloon                                                        
Lap Band
Mini Gastric Bypass
Full Gastric Bypass
Gastric Sleeve
Gastric Plication Surgery
Conversion or Revision Surgery
Duodenal Switch Surgery

              Dr. Sergio Verboonen

Much success in your journey.

Respectfully,
International Patient Facilitators – Cancun and Tijuana, Mexico
On behalf of Dr. Sergio Verboonen
info@ipf-mail.com

1 800 210 5124