Question:
I am 8 weeks post-op and can't swallow solids yet. Is this normal?

I am so frustrated and depressed. I had an open RNY Gastric Bypass 7 weeks ago, thinking that I would be able to eat most foods after surgery-just small portions. So far everything that I've tried, no matter how small, tender, or chewed up, always gets stuck half way down my throat, causes extreme pain and discomfort, and the only relief is when it comes back up. Then I'm sick the rest of the day, throwing up all day. I have lost approx. 10 #'s a week, but my quality of life is NOT better yet. I'm miserable. I did not bargain for having to live on liquids the rest of my life! Any suggestions?    — Kerri B. (posted on February 21, 2001)

February 21, 2001
I think you need to speak to your surgeon. You should be able to swallow pureed or soft foods by now. Perhaps the opening to your stomach has narrowed and need to be dilated.
   — Katie F.

February 21, 2001
I wasn't able to eat most foods until 6 months after the surgery. That includes beef, chicken and salad. I think you should take your time in adding new foods. You won't be on liquids for the rest of your life. Stop trying to be in a hurry to add new things. Your body is not ready for the foods you are trying to add. Give yourself a month or two then try them again.
   — [Anonymous]

February 21, 2001
I would suggest talking with your dr. I understand that some people can experience more swelling in their new stomach, especially in the opening, and I'm sure any vomitting only make it more so. At 8 weeks I was eating pretty much everything...However, even now at 4 months, I still gear toward softer foods...cottage cheese, casseroles, etc. I had an especially hard time with beef, and continue to have a hard time with any bread like products (breadsticks, garlic toast, sandwiches, buns. etc.) Some days are better then others, somedays I have problem even with softfoods like spaghetti, other days they are fine. But, as I said, I would talk to your surgeon just to rule out the swelling thing.
   — tlg6056

February 21, 2001
My doc requires liquids for 8 weeks, but I also had real problems after that time. Two thoughts -- I also had a partial closure of the stoma. They go in with a scope and take a look, then gently dilate the opening to allow foot to pass a bit easier. It was a simple answer, although I continued to have difficulty with consumption. As time has passed, this problem has completely gone away. But it was about four months out before I felt like I had any variety in my diet at all. I also felt discouraged and deprived. But it did get better, as it does eventually for everyone. So....I would check with your surgeon's office for their thoughts on stoma problems, then just introduce things very, very slowly. My mainstay during the tough times was cottage cheese - life's perfect food. Lots of protein and very easy to digest. Please e-mail me with any questions and best wishes...I promise things will improve.
   — Lorri S.

February 21, 2001
I had the same problem and what had to be done was a procedure were the doctor puts a scope down your throat to dilate the opening of the stomach. You may have a stricture. Please ask your doctor to check this because your symptoms are exactly like mine. Most miserable.
   — gcs8v