Those who undergo bariatric surgery should be prepared to make changes to their lifestyle that will last a lifetime. Being overweight can hugely affect a person’s health and social life, yet bariatric surgery is a tool that can help to achieve weight loss in a safe and healthy way. However, other lifestyle changes are still required to help you stay healthy and keep the weight off.
To make successful changes in your life, it can help to understand the milestones you should expect to reach three, six, nine and twelve months after the initial surgery.
Three Months
Many people start trying regular foods after around one-three months post-surgery. This allows them to see what foods their bodies will tolerate and what will go down easily. The timing differs between each person and also depends on the type of weight loss surgery.
Six Months
By six months post-surgery, you will notice that a lot of weight has been lost. If you have undergone a gastric bypass, it’s likely that you would have lost up to 40% of your body weight, though this varies from person to person. Those who get a gastric band tend to lose 1-2 pounds per week, which means around 25-50 pounds by six months.
Nine Months
Many people experience vitamin deficiencies post weight loss surgery. This is because their bodies are not taking in as many nutrients as before. Vitamins can be purchased over the counter to help with this. If you feel like you have had an insufficient weight loss it will be addressed at this point of the process.
Twelve Months
A huge milestone; one year after bariatric surgery you will have lost a large amount of weight. Those who undergo a gastric bypass are likely to be close to their overall weight loss goal. Those with a gastric band can expect to have lost up to 100 pounds at the twelve month mark. If you find your weight loss progress has slowed down, take a look at your current eating habits. Are you eating too many snacks?
If you’re experiencing unusual side effects or are worried your progress is behind, you can get in touch with The Bariatric Group for more information. Give the team a call on 01823 215714 or visit our contact page.
Disclaimer: Please note that weight loss surgery results and benefits are unique to each individual and in such The Bariatric Group cannot guarantee specific weight loss goals as results for each surgery can vary. If you have any questions or would like to know more about weight loss surgery please contact our expert team.
