Is it true that some patients have problems with excess skin after major weight loss?

Depending on the distribution of a person’s body fat prior to weight loss, as well as other factors such as age, there may be excessive skin which could cause irritation or problems with cleanliness. If these conditions occur, removal of excess tissue can often be done with satisfactory results when maximum weight loss has been achieved and sustained.

How long will I be out from work after my procedure? Some patients are able to work part-time on light duty within a week or two after surgery. Depending upon your position, your disability insurance company will allow 4 to 8 weeks of paid time off. If you wish to take more than the time allotted, you may be able to use personal or vacation time.

Why do food intolerances occur?

Generally gummy starches like breads, bagels, and pastas are not tolerated early on after surgery, however, small amounts of toasted bread and crackers can usually be consumed without problems.

On the full liquid stage, some foods will be dairy based. There is a chance that you might become lactose intolerant after the surgery which is the intolerance to the sugar and lactose in dairy products. If you experience cramping, bloating, diarrhea, or abdominal discomfort after consuming any dairy foods, you may have developed lactose intolerance. Some lactose free products, like Lactaid®, soy and rice milk, and yogurt, are generally well tolerated.

Taste alterations are a concern after surgery as well. You may find that as you recover, foods start differently; some foods that you may have loved before surgery are those which don’t appeal to you anymore after surgery. Oftentimes, people who really loved sweets lose their interest in sugary foods. You will have to experiment with your likes. Buy supplements and other foods in small quantities so that you can try various things and re-discover what tastes good to you.

Since food intolerances vary with each individual, your dietitian can help with sorting out food choices to minimize symptoms such as stomach discomfort, nausea, or diarrhea.

Why do I experience nausea and vomiting more than I did before surgery?

These are the most common complications occurring in the first few months after gastric bypass surgery. They may occur after eating too fast, drinking liquids while eating, not chewing foods enough, eating foods high in fat, or eating more than the pouch can comfortably hold. It is necessary to learn to eat very slowly, and chew foods thoroughly. Nausea and vomiting can also be triggered after trying new foods. If this happens, allow a few days to pass before trying a new food again. Notify your doctor if frequently vomiting becomes a problem.

Why does dumping syndrome occur?

It can occur when food passes too quickly from the stomach into the small intestine. Symptoms may include a combination of nausea, uncomfortable fullness, cramping, and diarrhea or weakness, fatigue, sweating, and a fast heart rate. Consumption of concentrated sweets can promote dumping syndrome. However, it is important to remember that even fruit juice which provides simple sugars in the diet will not provoke the dumping syndrome if taken in a small amount at one time. Portion control is the key to success!