Question:
Swelling of stomach region after Gastric Surgery

I am one week past my surgery date and things are going good. I am ready to return to work next week. The only think I am worried about is my over swollen stomach region. How long will it be before I can fit back into my pre-surgery dress slacks? My surgery was done laproscopically...and I have been drinkning my fluids and walking.    — dolphin94 (posted on May 18, 2007)

May 18, 2007
Have you tried on your your dress slacks. You may have gotten smaller -- so no they want fit. I'm sittiing at home in my size 28 jeans and yesterday had a on a size 20 business suite and that was so exciting for me. I like the loose jeans; however, I know they are headed for the goodwill.
   — the7thdean

May 18, 2007
You should start to see a difference anyday now. Granted everyone is different, but I was about one week post op when my stomach started to go down. Welcome to the losing side!
   — crystalsno

May 18, 2007
I think I was about 2 weeks out when that bloating went away.
   — promises2keep

May 19, 2007
Michelle it is only a week, you had major surgery, so breathe and take it easy about the dress slacks. Many people don't even go back to work for 6 weeks or better. I am glad for you that you can get up and get going, but just buy a few pair of elastic waist slacks or wear dresses for a few weeks. You are tender in that area, and they also filled you with a gas to check for leaks, so all that needs to disipate as well as surgery in itself needs many weeks to heal. The great news is that with less eating and exercise and water, you should be able to lose weight also during those weeks, so while the swelling goes down, some weight will also come off, and before you know it you won't be able to wear those dress slacks any more! Isn't it great to look forward to that problem? I wish you well, but these things just take time. Protect your pouch and your health. You really did have major surgery, so even if you feel well, take it easy for a time. Take care, Patricia P.
   — Patricia P

May 21, 2007
rember to wear a girdle. it helps bring down the swelling in your stomach i wear the girdle and band together wear it for 6 months . plus it helps shrink your waiste and stomache
   — yvettetas