Question:
Does WLS affect your breathing post-op, if so how and is this temporary or permanent?

I just had to ask because I hear alot of the post-op's on this site say they're doing good with their breathing. this concerns me because i'm already 330lbs and experiencing some shortness of breath due to my wieght. I would really appreciate any and all input on this matter. thankyou and may god bless all of you!!!!!!!!!!    — jadona B. (posted on March 9, 2002)

March 9, 2002
When you are a new post-op (like still in the hospital) it is hard to take deep breaths. Because of this, they make you suck on this air pump thing to get your lungs functioning again (it helps prevent pnemonia that can develop from not using all your lungs). I was breathing normally a few days post-op. My father, who had the surgery in October, had breathing problems going into surgery too, was fine in a few days. In fact, he doesn't get as winded in general now. I think you will be fine. Good Luck!
   — Angela B.

March 9, 2002
While you are in surgery they have you are intubated and have a machine breath for you. After you come out of surgery they will give you a spirometer to help you reinflate your lungs. The breathing machine can not fully inflate your lungs like you as a person can. It is important to use the spirometer over and over again while still in the hospital and take it home and use it. And yes it helps you from developing pneumonia. Sitting up in a chair as much as possible is important also, it keeps the fluids from building up in your lungs, these fluids can develope into pneumonia.
   — ChristineB

October 7, 2002
I'm glad I found this question. I had a VBG and came home the next day less than 24 hours after surgery. I could not fill my air in my lungs for about 4-5 days normally. This was the first time I had gone under General Anestetic.(sp)
   — Sherry S.