Bariatric surgery can be a life-changing experience. For individuals that are struggling with obesity, weight loss surgery can give them the tools they need to improve their health. There are many different options in bariatric procedures, from the classic gastric bypass to newer versions, including sleeve gastrectomy and duodenal switch. All of these procedures reduce the size of the stomach through surgery, which can impact taking in fluids and nutrients.
Most bariatric procedures are completed laparoscopically, and patients rarely need to stay in the hospital for more than a day. This means they will be recovering at home and must ensure they receive enough fluids and nutrients in the days and weeks after surgery. One of the common complications of bariatric surgery is dehydration. While patients are instructed on the importance of getting enough fluids daily, this can be a struggle when your stomach has recently been altered and only holds a few fluid ounces.
Preparing for Bariatric Surgery
Many bariatric surgeons recommend that their patients undergo IV drip therapy before their surgery. Bariatric patients often need to be on a liver-shrinking diet before their procedure to reduce the size of the liver for safer surgery. This means they are on a restricted diet and may receive less nutrients than they need. An IV drip a day or two before surgery can flood the body with nutrients required for healing and recovery and ensure the patient goes into surgery well-hydrated.
IV Drip Therapy Post-Bariatric Surgery
Once the weight loss surgery is completed, bariatric patients need to sip water and liquid proteins to get enough fluids and nutrients. This can be difficult for many patients – only an ounce or two can be taken at a time as the stomach is swollen and healing. For many, getting the recommended 30+ ounces of water and grams of protein during the days following surgery can seem impossible. This can lead to dehydration and other complications.
IV hydration drip therapy can be a lifesaver when drinking fluids is too painful or difficult after bariatric surgery. Since IV drips bypass the digestive system, patients can receive the needed fluids directly into their bloodstream and other nutrients to help them heal. This leaves more room to drink the protein required and work towards healing and recovery in the weeks after surgery. Some patients may need multiple IV drip sessions during the first month of recovery to keep hydrated for quicker healing and better health.
Weight loss surgery can be very rewarding, but protecting your health during recovery is essential. Investing in IV drip therapy before and after bariatric surgery can make continuing your weight loss journey easier and faster. If you are planning bariatric surgery in the Los Angeles, CA, area, you can count on the IV Healing Spa for exceptional IV drip therapy. Call our office to discuss scheduling pre and post-surgery IV drip treatments.