Question:
How long does it take to lose the weight gained from surgery?

I am 6 months post-op, open RNY. I had lost 110# as of 5/06/02, but then I had a total abdominal hysterectomy that morning. I just came home from the hospital yesterday and I weighed myself this morning. Yikes! I have gained 16#'s from surgery. I am very swollen and have tons of gas. How long does it take to lose this weight? I assume it is mosly fluid retention from surgery, etc. It sure isn't because I have eaten anything, because nothing has appealed to me. I trust that now I am at home and I can get back on my own regimen I will lose it rather quickly. I just wanted to hear from other posties who may have encountered a similar experience, what it was like for them. Thanks    — Susan M. (posted on May 10, 2002)

May 10, 2002
Well I have not had the WLS yet (waiting on approval) but I have had a partial hysterectomy and what you describe: the pain, bloating and weight gain are normal I believe. Please be patient with your body it will take care of it's self just fine. Gas-x helped me the most with the gas pain- it can feel like a knife. Don't worry about your diet just follow your Drs. orders and you will be fine. God Bless you.
   — Debby M.

May 10, 2002
I MUST AGREE WITH DEBBY, GAS X WAS A LIFE SAVER FOR ME ALSO. I WAS SWOLLEN FOR A COUPLE WEEKS AT LEAST, BUT IT WILL GO DOWN HONEY. JUST BE PATIENT.
   — Gale G.

May 10, 2002
Talk to your doctor about perhaps a dose of a diuretic. I had a terrible headache caused by fluid retention and he gave me a one time lasix in the hospital. It took care of the h/a and the fluid retention. Drink lots of fluids to flush out your system also. I agree, Gas X is the best for gas.
   — ZZ S.