Weight loss surgery patients who lose extensive amounts of weight typically need a structured meal and nutrition program to follow immediately after their procedures. A dietitian or nutritionist can help design a healthy meal plan after surgery to ensure proper healing and make sure the patient has enough energy and strength to help their body restore itself back to good health. An insufficient diet can lead to numerous health complications and problems, and patients need to make sure they are following a healthy meal plan to maintain a healthy lifestyle after the drastic weight loss. 

The December 2008 issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, the official medical journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), reports that patients who can follow a healthy diet and stabilize their weight before seeking liposuction or gastric bypass have the highest chances of recovering successfully. If you’re pursuing weight loss surgery or liposuction, consider the following diet and nutrition guidelines that will support your body through the healing and recovery phases:

1. Eat more protein. The study published in the ASPS Journal notes that protein plays a very important role in wound healing, so patients need to make sure they are eating enough lean protein before and after their surgery or procedure.  Protein shakes and bars offer some convenient options for those who may not have access to high-protein meals throughout the day.

2. Eat foods high in Vitamin C. Many liposuction doctors and weight loss surgeons put patients on a formal nutritional supplementation program before and after their surgery; these supplements are provided to promote adequate wound recovery and ensure that the patients have enough energy throughout the day. Vitamin C supplements are particularly valuable for the wound healing process, an antioxidant that helps keep skin and connective tissues in good health.

3. Take Vitamin B supplements. According to a recent report in Science Daily, taking a Vitamin B complex may reduce the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis. Vitamin B supplements also help improve metabolic activity and provide a natural energy boost. 

4. Eat foods high in iron. Iron-rich foods including red meats, bran flakes, oatmeal, sea vegetables and lentils can help improve collagen production and provide strength during the recovery period. Patients who do not have enough iron in their diets often suffer from weakness, muscle fatigue, insomnia and loss of appetite. These states can all affect the recovery rate, so eating enough iron is essential for a healthy recovery.

5. Take selenium supplements. Selenium also plays an important role in collagen production which can speed up the healing process.  Selenium also helps reduce the risk of joint inflammation and protects the cells from free-radical damage.  Foods high in selenium include tuna, button mushrooms, salmon and snapper. However, selenium supplements may be a more convenient solution for many patients who do not typically eat these types of foods.  

Preparing your body for surgery and then maintaining a balanced diet and supplementation program are essential for adequate wound healing, skin and tissue repair. Consulting with a nutritionist or dietitian before and after weight loss surgery or liposuction is an important part of the procedure, and some doctors and surgeons do provide nutritional therapy services as part of their treatment program.