Question:
How long does it actually take to heal the insides of the stomach from surgery?

I had RNY surgery on 4/28/00. So far I have lost 27 lbs, and still on fluids, with lite yogart and SF puddings. I want to know how long the inside of my stomach will take to heal? How long before I can start doing exercises besides walking, such as sit ups?    — rosemary I. (posted on May 14, 2000)

May 14, 2000
I had a laparascopic RNY 3/14/00...was started on full liquids (skim milk, sugar-free pudding, yogurt, cream of wheat, grits, oatmeal, blended soups, mashed potatoes, etc...) 2 days after surgery (6 "meals"/day), then advanced to a soft diet at 3 weeks post-op and had no problems with this regimen. I was also given a prescription for Prilosec for 30 days which decreases stomach acidity and promotes healing. The amount of exercise will depend on whether you had an open or laparascopic procedure. I was told not to lift more than 20-25 lbs during the 1st 3 weeks; otherwise to do what I felt I could without causing discomfort. Walking and other forms of exercise (to tolerance) started at 3 weeks post-op. Be sure to check with your surgeon for his/her personal preferences. Good luck, Diana
   — Diana T.

May 14, 2000
The surgical incisions and alterations in the stomach, intestines, and generally the whole body can take up to 6 weeks to completely heal. It is a gradual process and since we can't see what's happening and the rate of our progress is highly individual, you have to consider a 6 week period of recovery. As far as exercising is concerned, you can start a minimal regimen within a few weeks of surgery, such as walking and strength training/resistence weights. Upper and lower body and back exercises are okay early on, too. But most doctors want to wait at least 6 weeks before allowing any abdominal exercises or lifting that will strain the abdominal muscles. This goes for open and laparoscopic approaches. Ask your surgeon to recommend an exercise program or even better yet, ask to speak with a physical therapist or rehabilitation therapist. These are the people who really understand exercise (sorry docs) and can help to set an entire program, set up a pace, and can follow up with your progress. We consult with a nutritionist, and other specialists, so go for an exercise therapist or psysiatrist. There are some excellent personal trainers in some gyms and health clubs but be careful to select someone who has experience with post op clients and can understand the needs of a general post op abdominal surgical client.
   — Fran B.