What foods are recommended before and after surgery for a comfortable and speedy recovery?

Question

I'd like to decrease tummy discomfort (bloating/gas/constipation) after surgery. What foods should I avoid? What foods are recommended? How much water should I drink?

Germán Newall, MD, FACS, FICS · Answer

Thanks for your question. A healthy diet before and after surgery would be best. Please consult with your surgeon as every surgeon's protocol will differ. Best, Dr. Newall

Steven L. Ringler, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi Eski, Thank you for your question.  In my practice, I have found using a progression tension suture technique for tummy tuck greatly speeds the recovery process.  This procedure is performed without surgical drains and most of my patients recover from this surgery much more quickly than with other techniques.  Please consult your own plastic surgeon as to whether they have any specific diet recommendations prior to surgery. A healthy diet is always recommended.  Best of luck to you.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Any specific dietary instructions should come only from your surgeon. If you are healthy a well-balanced diet is all that can be expected. Postoperatively smaller meals will probably be more comfortable in the short term. In my own practice I use a mechanical bowel prep to diminish the possibility of gas pains postoperatively.

John Zavell, MD, FACS · Answer

Ideally, before surgery, your nutrition would be optimized.  A healthy balanced diet before surgery is recommended.  Since the pain medications you receive will slow down your GI tract and may cause constipation, it is a good idea to avoid any constipating foods in the time just before and after the surgery.  Examples include fried foods, cheese, bananas, etc.  Also, avoid foods that may create excessive bloating or gas such as high fiber foods.

Kiran Polavarapu, MD · Answer

Just eat a well balanced diet with lean protein and veggies. Low sodium and plenty of fluids (water, green tea) will also help with boating and constipation.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.There is no specific “recommended diet” for the post-tummy tuck patient. A well-balanced diet with high fiber and a good protein source would obviously be helpful. Adding a protein shake (to each meal) if necessary may also be helpful especially if your appetite is curtailed ( which often happens during this period). Frequent hydration is also important.Best wishes.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

Consult with your surgeon regarding dietary instructions.  I recommend my patients eat a low sodium diet and take a stool softner at least a week prior to surgery, and continue for at least 3 weeks after surgery.  Eat a well balanced diet for a good recovery.

What foods are recommended before and after surgery for a comfortable and speedy recovery?

Answers (7)

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