My pain pump is leaking or not infusing, what should I do?

The On-Q Pain pump is a small disposable pump filled with a local anesthetic medication to help relieve your pain after surgery. It works by continually infusing anesthetics near the surgical site through a catheter to provide targeted pain relief. If the pump stops infusing or is leaking, it is okay to remove the pump at home.

When can I go to an amusement park and ride a rollercoaster?

It is best to avoid any jarring motions after surgery such as riding a rollercoaster for at least 1 month postoperatively. After that it is safe to go to an amusement park.

When can I go swimming or submerge my abdomen in water?

You should avoid submerging your incision sites or swimming for 1 month postoperatively. Submerging your incision sites too early could lead to the areas reopening or infections developing.

When can I fly after surgery?

Flying increases your risk of developing blood clots after surgery. For this reason, it should be avoided for 1 month postoperatively.

When can I go tanning after surgery?

Tanning is never recommended due to the increased risk of skin cancer. If you choose to go tanning, note that it may worsen scars and make them more pronounced.

What restrictions do I have after surgery and when can I resume exercise?

You should not lift more than 20lbs for 2 weeks postoperatively. It is okay to begin cardio exercise, such as walking, as tolerated immediately after surgery.

Can I take allergy medications after surgery?

You are safe to take over-the-counter allergy medications after surgery. These medications do increase your risk of dehydration though, so it is best to drink a minimum of 64oz of fluid. You should avoid taking any oral steroids; nasal steroid sprays are safe.

When can I take NSAIDs (aspirin- Excedrin, ibuprofen- Advil and Motrin, naproxen- Aleve, meloxicam,
Celebrex, diclofenac)?

NSAIDs are best avoided for the first 3-6 months postoperatively for sleeve patients and for life after bypass. If needing to restart taking NSAIDs after 6 months, you should concurrently take a Proton Pump Inhibitor (esomeprazole-Nexium, lansoprazole- Prevacid, omeprazole- Prilosec, pantoprazole- Protonix, dexlansoprazole-Dexilant).

What can I take for pain over the counter if I cannot take NSAIDs?

We recommend taking acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain. You should refer to the bottle for directions and dosing. The max daily dose of Tylenol is 4,000mg per day from all sources in divided doses. If you are having pain related to surgery, we encourage you to schedule an appointment in office to discuss. If Tylenol is not effective for pain management for chronic pain, we recommend following up with your primary care provider to discuss additional options.

Can I take oral steroids?

Steroids should be avoided for life after bypass but can be taken if needed after 3-6 months post laparoscopic vertical sleeve gastrectomy. Joint injections with steroids and topical steroids (not applied to the incisions) are safe to use after surgery.