Weight loss surgery is life-changing, from your fact-finding consultations with us to the day you have your procedure. Although everything after treatment is exciting and new, it’s still a huge change – but one of the most exciting differences following your surgery are the pounds that you’ll lose. From bypasses to bands and sleeves, read on as we break down how much weight you can expect to lose during your recovery time from weight loss surgery.
Gastric band
After your gastric band treatment, you should begin to lose weight fairly quickly. You’ll notice significant weight loss within the first 2 weeks, thanks to your low-calorie liquid diet. For the first 2 weeks, you’ll also find that your appetite is reduced as a result of the initial swelling of your band. The swelling will then subside, so you’ll find that your weight loss will plateau by week 4. This is completely normal, and you’ll continue to lose weight after having your band adjusted.
Gastric band adjustments are an important part of your weight loss journey. After you’ve had your first band adjustment, you can expect to lose 1 to 2lbs per week, provided that you’re following your post-op diet and exercise.
Your weight loss should continue for the next 18 months to 3 years, and the great news is that you can lose 44-55% of your excess weight! (Excess weight is calculated by subtracting your ideal weight from your pre-op weight.)
But as with all weight loss procedures, the best results come from closely following your post-op diet and aftercare instructions. Remember, post-op life is a marathon, not a sprint!
Gastric bypass and sleeve
If you’ve had a gastric bypass or gastric sleeve procedure, you can expect to lose up to 3lb per week in the first few months following surgery. By 6 months, this will slow to 1-2lb per week.
With a gastric bypass, you should lose 55-70% of your excess weight within 3 years. With a gastric sleeve, the average weight loss after 3 years is 55-60% of your excess weight.
Of course, the pace and extent of your weight loss will depend on how well you follow your post-op diet, along with other factors such as your gender and starting weight. Men tend to lose weight more quickly than women due to having higher muscle mass, and the more weight you have to lose, the more quickly you’re likely to lose weight.
Getting the most out of your surgery
Weight loss surgery comes with some big lifestyle changes. Luckily, our team of expert dietitians and nurses are there to help you get the most out of your treatment! Our team will give you advice on exercise, diet, and even how to eat as you follow your post-op diet and progress on your weight loss journey.
You might also find greater success if you set yourself realistic targets and keep a positive attitude. Focusing on the future and how great you will feel once you hit your goal weight can really help to keep you on track.
It’s important to remember that how your weight loss progresses after treatment will be personal to YOU. Just as our bodies are different, so is every patient’s experience.
To find out more about your weight loss options, book your free, no obligation consultation today – that new beginning could be closer than you think!