Posted 1/22/2015 7:37 PM (GMT 0)
I have a few suggestions, first make sure that you have all the proper testing to make sure that you are a good candidate for the surgery. I had multiple EGDs, a barium swallow, manometry, Bravo 48-hour pH monitor. Second, do some research regarding the surgeon. It's really important to get someone that is experienced with the Nissen procedure and has done quite a few of them. When I met with my surgeon, he explained to me the process of the surgery and the post-op diet and care. Every surgeon has different opinions. I was on clear liquids for the first week, then I progressed to full liquids and then soft foods. I had my Nissen done in April 2014, which also included hernia repair. This is a major surgery, and the recovery period is not easy, but it's the best thing that I've ever done. I was fortunate and didn't have a lot of the severe side effects that some people had. I was fortunate that my employer gave me unlimited time off, fully paid. I was off for two months, and can't imagine how some people return to work in a week. One of the first things I was told was no chocolate or caffeine, no carbonated beverages, no alcohol in the beginning. I think it would be a good idea to taper off of the coffee.