Gastric sleeve surgery is a clinically proven method for long-term weight loss. However, the outcome significantly depends on how well patients follow post-operative guidelines. Dr. Niruben Rajasagaram, a leading bariatric surgeon in Melbourne, regularly advises patients on the importance of adequate aftercare. While the procedure reduces stomach size and limits food intake, recovery mistakes can compromise results, lead to complications, or cause weight regain. 

This blog takes a closer look at gastric sleeve surgery, highlights the most common post-op mistakes, and offers practical tips to help you avoid them for a smoother and more successful recovery.

Mistakes to Avoid After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Below are the most common mistakes patients make after surgery, highlighting what not to do after gastric sleeve surgery to ensure a successful recovery: 

1. Ignoring Your Diet Plan

Many people make diet mistakes post-weight loss surgery by eating too quickly or choosing foods that are high in sugar, fat, or low in nutritional value. After a sleeve gastrectomy, your stomach’s capacity is significantly reduced, making it crucial to eat small portions of nutrient-dense meals that include lean protein, vegetables, and whole grains. Eating too much, too often, or consuming calorie-dense snacks can stretch your stomach pouch and impact your weight-loss results. 

Stick to the diet plan our bariatric team provides. Skipping this step is a common gastric sleeve recovery mistake that can cause discomfort and weight regain.

2. Skipping Protein Intake

Protein plays an important role in the success of your post-surgery diet. It supports recovery, preserves muscle mass, and promotes appetite control. One of the most common reasons behind failing gastric sleeve recovery is inadequate protein intake. When patients neglect consuming enough protein-rich foods, it can lead to fatigue, muscle loss, and persistent hunger, all of which can trigger overeating and weight regain. 

Make protein your priority at every meal. Aim for lean meats, eggs, dairy, or protein supplements as recommended. Missing out on protein is an example of non-compliance after the gastric sleeve.

3. Not Staying Hydrated

Drinking enough water is important during gastric sleeve recovery. However, many patients either neglect regular hydration or consume large amounts of water during meals, leading to discomfort or nausea. Dehydration may lead to fatigue, constipation, dizziness, and headaches, making recovery more difficult and less effective. To avoid this, aim to drink small amounts of water regularly between meals and avoid drinking 30 minutes before and after eating. Consistent hydration supports digestion, energy levels, and overall healing.

Skipping proper hydration is one of the common mistakes after gastric sleeve surgery that can easily be avoided.

4. Neglecting Physical Activity

Exercise promotes weight loss, boosts metabolism, and supports mental well-being. Delaying physical activity or avoiding it entirely can impact recovery and increase the risk of weight regain.

Begin with light activities such as walking, and gradually increase the intensity based on your doctor’s guidance. Staying on track after bariatric surgery requires a consistent exercise routine. Skipping physical activity is one of the most common post-operative mistakes after gastric sleeve surgery and can significantly impact long-term success.

5. Not Attending Follow-Up Appointments

Regular follow-ups with our bariatric surgeon and dietitian are essential for monitoring progress, identifying potential issues early, and adjusting your recovery plan as needed. Skipping these appointments can result in undetected nutritional deficiencies, delayed healing, and unintentional weight regain.

Staying consistent with your follow-up appointments is essential for monitoring your recovery and addressing any concerns early. Skipping these check-ins is one of the first signs of non-compliance after gastric sleeve, which can lead to complications and nutritional issues.

6. Ignoring Emotional and Mental Health

Weight loss surgery is as much a mental journey as a physical one. Some patients overlook emotional challenges, leading to stress eating, depression, or loss of motivation.

Seek support from professionals, support groups, or counselling to manage emotions effectively. Lifestyle changes after sleeve gastrectomy include developing healthy coping strategies.

7. Expecting Instant Results and Losing Patience

Recovery and weight loss take time. Some patients expect immediate transformation and feel discouraged if progress slows. This mindset can lead to poor decisions and giving up on the recovery after the surgery.

Understand that gastric sleeve recovery mistakes often require patience. Commit to gradual, sustainable changes for lasting success. 

Take Away 

Avoiding common post-operative mistakes is essential for maintaining effective results. Although each patient’s journey is unique, the above-mentioned guidelines apply to everyone. To avoid regaining weight after gastric sleeve surgery, here are some simple and effective steps:

• Stick to your follow-up schedule; don’t skip appointments

• Follow the post-op diet phases carefully

• Prioritise protein at every meal

• Separate fluids from food

• Move your body daily, even lightly

• Get support for emotional eating and habit change

• Stay consistent, even when motivation dips

These small habits form the foundation of long-term success and are some of the most effective tips to avoid weight regain after gastric sleeve surgery.

Dr. Niruben Rajasagaram is a skilled and experienced bariatric surgeon in Melbourne, known for his patient-first approach. With extensive expertise in bypass, revision, and gastric sleeve surgery in Melbourne, he provides surgical care and personalised support throughout your recovery journey.

Whether you're struggling with common recovery challenges, unsure about your progress, or simply want to avoid the gastric sleeve post-op mistakes outlined above, Dr. Niruben and his team are here to help.

Book a consultation and get recommendations on how to stay on track after bariatric surgery.