Going on holiday 3-4 months after gastric sleeve surgery - do you think I will be ok to travel?

Question

I am due to has a gastric sleeve and already have a cruise holiday booked 3-4 months after the surgery. Do you think I will be ok to travel?

Babak Moeinolmolki, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello,
Thank you for your question. Physically you should be okay to travel that far after the surgery. My main concern would be the emphasis many cruises place on food. In the months after the surgery it is important to physically and emotionally adjust to the post-surgical diet as well as your new healthier lifestyle, which for most patients places less emphasis on social eating and more emphasis on physical activity.
I recommend you have physical social activities planned for the cruise, so that you do not feel deprived by not partaking in extensive consumption and socialization centered on food.
Best wishes,
Dr. Moein

Reza Keshavarzi, MD, FACS, FASMBS · Answer

We recommend you to wait at least a week before any air travel. If you take any car rides, make sure you stop frequently and take breaks by walking around. 3-4 months after surgery should not be an issue. You should always ask your surgeon to make sure. You will also need to plan how you will stick to your diet while on your vacation. The more you plan, the more successful you will be.

Ali Solmaz, MD · Answer

Yes, you should be fine to travel 3-4 months after gastric sleeve surgery, especially for a cruise. By that time, most people have transitioned to a regular diet, energy levels have improved, and any initial post-op complications should have resolved. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. Your stomach will still be adjusting to smaller portions, and some foods may not sit well, so it’s important to stick to protein-rich meals, avoid carbonated drinks, and eat slowly to prevent discomfort. Staying hydrated is also crucial since cruises can be dehydrating due to salty foods and alcohol, which you should still avoid. Carrying a water bottle and sipping frequently can help.
While you’ll likely feel good, it’s important not to overexert yourself and to rest when needed, especially after excursions. It’s also a good idea to ensure that the cruise has a medical facility in case of unexpected issues and to consider travel insurance in case of complications. If your surgeon wants a three-month check-up, try to schedule it before you leave to make sure everything is on track. As long as you’re healing well and comfortable with your new eating habits, you should be able to enjoy your holiday without major concerns.

Pablo Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello, I hope you are well. Yes, bariatric surgery, especially gastric sleeves, are safe procedures associated with quick recovery. More so, we recieve international patients who travel back to their home countries less than a month following their surgery, given no complications occur.

Going on holiday 3-4 months after gastric sleeve surgery - do you think I will be ok to travel?

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Answer: Going on holiday 3-4 months after gastric sleeve surgery - do you think I will be ok to travel?

Answer: Going on holiday 3-4 months after gastric sleeve surgery - do you think I will be ok to travel?

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Going on holiday 3-4 months after gastric sleeve surgery - do you think I will be ok to travel?

Answers (4)

Answer: Going on holiday 3-4 months after gastric sleeve surgery - do you think I will be ok to travel?

Answer: Going on holiday 3-4 months after gastric sleeve surgery - do you think I will be ok to travel?

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Everything you need to know about Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.