New behaviors take time to learn. The first few months after your operation represent a sensitive time both psychologically and physiologically. Depending on your operation, it is very important to allow any connections between the stomach and the intestine to heal. The first few months post-op are also complicated by problems with judging adequate hydration. You must be cognizant and careful that obesity and over-eating may be signs of an addiction behavior.

Phase I – Pre-Surgery Clear Liquid Diet

The first phase of clear liquids will actually start five days prior to surgery. You will be advised to drink only clear liquids and be expected to adhere to this for the five days prior to surgery regardless of which operation you will be undergoing. We allow two protein supplements per day for the first two days of this five day period.

Incontinence is a relatively common condition, particularly in obese individuals. Defined as involuntary passage of urine or feces, incontinence is rarely associated with serious underlying pathology, but can have a profoundly negative impact upon quality of life, limiting daily activities and affecting psychological wellbeing, social interaction and interpersonal relationships. Many people with incontinence are reluctant to seek help, either due to embarrassment or because they believe that nothing can be done. However, in the majority of cases, appropriate intervention can lead to significant symptomatic reduction or complete cure.

Acid reflux occurs when stomach contents leak out into the tube connecting the mouth to the stomach. Common symptoms include heartburn, an unpleasant taste in the mouth and difficulty swallowing. Less commonly, throat pain, nausea, coughing and increased salivation may also be observed, and frequent reflux is associated with an increased risk of tooth decay due to acid erosion. Most people will experience occasional episodes of symptomatic acid reflux, and it is usually no cause for concern.