How to Lose Weight After Having the Vertical Sleeve

Medline Plus describes the vertical sleeve as a type of weight loss surgery in which 80 to 85 percent of the stomach is removed. The remaining portion of the stomach is reshaped and stapled into a long tube, or "sleeve" . This differs from gastric bypass surgery, in which the stomach is stapled into a smaller size, but nothing is removed. Because the size of the stomach is greatly reduced during the vertical sleeve, it is only able to hold small amounts of food and drink, helping patients eat less. The vertical sleeve is an irreversible procedure, but proper diet and exercise habits must be maintained in order for it to remain effective for weight management.

Instructions

• 1

  Follow your doctor's nutrition advice strictly. Typically, you will be placed on a liquid diet for at least two days after surgery, according to "Medline Plus." You will then gradually progress from a pureed diet to solid foods. To lose weight and avoid stretching the stomach, it is important to eat small amounts of food throughout the day, and stay within the calorie limit recommended by your doctor.

• 2

  Follow your doctor's instructions regarding physical activity after the surgery. Your body will need time to heal before beginning an exercise regimen. However, exercise is a key factor in losing weight, and maintaining weight loss after the vertical sleeve. Your doctor can recommend a routine based on your health and physical abilities.

• 3

  Deal with your emotions. Your food cravings may not disappear after the operation. It is important for you to address the reasons behind your cravings (i.e. sadness, stress, boredom, anger), and to substiute suitable alternatives, such as taking a short walk, to re-direct you when cravings strike. You may need to seek the professional guidance of a counselor or support group to help you through this portion of your recovery. According to "Medline Plus", nutritional and emotional counseling are sometimes included in preparing patients for surgery and recovery.