Still in pain one week post-op

I had the gastric sleeve one week ago and im still in lot of pain...is that normal?

I have no experience with the sleeve.  I suggest that you call your doctor/nurse and explain to them how you are feeling.

I'm sorry that you are having so much discomfort. The Sleeve, like all surgical procedures, can cause a variety of pain issues in the first few weeks. Some are cause for concern and some are to be expected.

Pain that centers in your chest or radiates to your back could be swelling and reflux. This might feel like a heart attack and is quite alarming.

Pain and pressure in the side, shoulder blades and abdominal area can be trapped gas. This is not the usual after-meal gas, but is instead an extremely painful situation that brings a lot of people to the ER after lap surgery. I've found that warm liquids, changing positions and moving/walking a little helps with this.

Pain at or near your incision site is most concerning if is is accompanied by oozing, bleeding, redness or fever. You want to watch for possible infection like a hawk. One of our incisions (near the middle) is the site where the rest of the stomach was removed. It's about two inches wide and can be quite sore as it starts to heal and be pulled as we get more active.

To answer your question, there is no normal. There's only you and if we gave you an answer, it would be our body's perspective on pain. You should use the information above only to help you give specifics to your doctor's office about the location and characteristics of your pain and what it is accompanied by.

Don't feel afraid to call or make an appointment. It's more than just peace of mind -- it's your health.

I hope you find both answers and comfort very soon.

Frances