I thought I’d try writing short weekly updates for the first month. Later on, probably less often, since changes will be smaller and this “new life” will feel more normal. Without a longer introduction, let’s begin.
How I’m Feeling
Each day, I feel a little better. The wounds hurt less, and the carbon dioxide from surgery seems to have left my body. My energy improves daily, but I’m still dealing with constant fatigue. I assume my body is recovering, and the calorie deficit isn’t helping.
Since I took time off work, my days mostly revolve around adjusting to this new rhythm. I set reminders to eat and drink, and I keep track of my medications very strictly. The anti-thrombosis injection is the least pleasant part of my day. Sometimes it stings more, other times barely at all. Interestingly, I still have a large bruise from the hospital injection, but the ones my partner gives me leave almost no mark.
To be safe, I check my temperature daily. It has stayed normal, which gives me peace of mind. I worry sometimes whether everything is healing correctly, and I know a fever would be a warning sign.
Sleep has improved each day. I don’t sleep on my stomach yet, still proudly on top of my pillow pile. But by the end of the week, I felt that even lying on my side wasn’t uncomfortable. I still prefer being on my back, but it’s quite nice for variety.
The wounds look like they’re healing well. I shower daily and change the bandages, which is still unpleasant since pulling them off stings. In the first few days, going downstairs made the wounds ache, but that’s easing up. I still move carefully when sitting or standing to avoid strain.
For the brave (or just the curious), I added a photo of my stomach. The bruise is from the injection, but it doesn’t hurt to touch, I promise it looks worse than it feels. You can also see leftover adhesive from the bandages and some marker traces from surgery. There are five wounds in total, though only four show up in the photo.
Is Anything Bothering Me?
Constipation: Completely normal at this stage, but still uncomfortable. The clinic advised using Microlax if I go four days without a bowel movement. It works, but let’s just say it’s not winning any awards for user experience. Given my tiny food portions and high protein intake, it’s no surprise.
The second thing that worries me a bit is that the outer sides of my thighs are occasionally numb. More so at night, but often during the day too. It’s not painful, just… weird. I reassure myself by checking that I don’t have fever, swelling, or colour changes, but it’s still a little unsettling. Naturally, I googled (always a great idea at 2 a.m.), and if I read things correctly, this can happen after anaesthesia. I’ll still double-check with the clinic.
This doesn’t directly bother me, but it’s hard to understand the feeling of fullness. I’ve read that some people sneeze, others feel pressure behind the breastbone, but me? I just suddenly don’t want to eat anymore. No fanfare, no clear signal. I’m guessing it’ll make more sense with time.
Menu
The plan is to eat 4–6 times a day. Realistically, 5 meals is my maximum, and often I only manage 4. I also avoid drinking 30 minutes before and after eating, and with 6 meals, it feels nearly impossible to stay hydrated.
For the first two weeks, I’m supposed to aim for 300–400 kcal and about 45 g of protein daily. I’m not quite there yet.
Here’s one day’s menu:
Meal I: 30 g pear + 30 g Greek yogurt + 1.5 g Protifar
Meal II: 60 g pureed vegetable soup (cauliflower, carrot, peas) + 3 g light Philadelphia + 2 g Protifar
Meal III: 25 g banana + 20 g Greek yogurt + 1.5 g Protifar
Meal IV: 50 g pureed vegetable soup + 3 g light Philadelphia + 2 g Protifar
Meal V: 46 g tuna + potato (pureed)
Totals: ~280 kcal and 26 g protein.
I’ll admit, I miss chewing more and more each day. Who knew crunchy cucumbers and plain toast would one day sound like luxury items? I’m not truly hungry, but I’m tired of the pureed textures and the taste of Protifar. I comfort myself with the thought that soon I can experiment with other foods. Thankfully, everything I’ve eaten so far has agreed with my stomach — no nausea or discomfort.
I aim for at least 1 litre of water a day, sipping constantly since I can’t drink before or after meals. On good days, I’ve managed 1.25 liters.
Physical Activity
This could be better. My average daily step count is around 5,500–6,500. I’d like to move more, but my energy is still low. Hopefully, I can increase my activity in the coming weeks.
Conclusion
Overall, the first week has gone better than I expected. I was prepared for worse, but so far recovery has been smooth. I’m curious how others are doing, too. How do you feel, how are your wounds healing, and how are your energy levels these days? And please tell me I’m not the only one daydreaming about chewing on real food again.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the first week after bariatric surgery like?
The first week after bariatric surgery (such as gastric bypass surgery) usually involves following a special diet of clear liquids and gradually moving to pureed foods. Most bariatric surgery programs recommend resting, wound care, and short walks to lower the risk of blood clots. It’s normal to feel moderate discomfort, fatigue, or even some constipation as the body heals.
2. When can I start eating solid foods?
In the first few weeks, most patients progress liquids → pureed foods → soft foods before eating solid foods again. True regular foods usually come several weeks after surgery (often around 6–8 weeks, depending on tolerance and the stomach pouch healing). Always carefully follow your own bariatric surgery team’s plan
3. Why do I need to focus on high protein foods after bariatric surgery?
After weight loss surgery, your smaller stomach limits food intake, so every bite matters. In the first few weeks, protein usually comes from protein shakes, powders, or pureed foods. These help you get enough protein to heal, preserve muscle, and support weight loss. Later, as you progress to soft foods and eventually regular foods, you’ll add other high protein foods like eggs, fish, or chicken. Most patients are advised to chew food well, take small bites, and avoid too much food, which can cause nausea, increased pain, or dumping syndrome.
4. How do I stay hydrated?
Staying hydrated is critical. Patients are usually told to take frequent sips of liquids throughout the day. Don’t drink with meals, wait about 30 minutes before and after eating. Many patients need to sip liquids constantly to meet fluid goals without overwhelming the smaller stomach. This helps prevent constipation and supports long-term success.
5. When should I call my healthcare provider after bariatric surgery?
Call your healthcare provider or bariatric surgery team promptly if you have any of the following warning signs:
Increased pain day-to-day (instead of gradual improvement)
Fever or chills
Severe abdominal pain or cramping not eased by rest/meds
Vomiting or persistent nausea that prevents you from sipping liquids or keeping meals down
Signs of blood clots: new leg swelling, redness, or pain
Chest pain, shortness of breath, or coughing blood (call emergency services)
Wound redness/swelling/drainage, or any concern about wound care
These can signal serious problems that need urgent attention.
6. Can certain medications or lifestyle factors cause problems?
After gastric bypass (a malabsorptive procedure), the body’s ability to absorb some oral medications can change; oral birth control pills may be less effective. Non-oral methods (IUD, implant, injection) are commonly recommended. Ask your healthcare team.
Most programs advise avoiding pregnancy for 12–18 months (sometimes up to 24 months), not because of pill absorption, but because rapid weight loss, hormonal shifts, and potential low vitamin/mineral levels can affect maternal and fetal health while the body heals.
Smoking, alcohol, or skipping vitamin and mineral supplements increases risks (e.g., ulcers, deficiencies) and can undermine weight loss. Carefully follow your team’s dietary guidelines, supplements, and exercise habits to support safe recovery.
