Safe to diet while recovering?

[Xavier]

Doctors,

I am thinking about continuing my diet while recovering from surgery. I will be consuming less calories then my body needs to maintain its weight. Is this safe when recovering, or should I increase the calories for at least a few weeks?

[Miguel Delgado MD]

Your body is in warp drive will healiing.  You need calories and not stress your body. I suggest to listen to your doctor about eating but i suggest give your body and more what it needs to heal.  We also give a comprehesive vitamin program to help heal as well. Good Luck

[Litlriki]

I also discourage any unusual dieting for at least about 6 weeks after surgery.  Much of the activity of healing occurs in these early stages, and you don't want to create any nutritional deficiencies, including calories. Maintenance is sufficient--You don't necessarily need to consume extra, if you're otherwise well-nourished. 

Rick Silverman

[Xavier]

Thanks for the answers. Maintenance it is.

[Dr. Elliot Jacobs]

Concur with Drs Delgado and Silverman.  You should not go on any type of diet just prior to surgery.  Surgery is stressful -- and your body needs strength (calories) as well as protein to heal.

Best advice is to eat a sensible and proper diet.  You can consider adding additional protein, Vit C and Zinc after surgery to aid in healing.

Good luck!

Dr Jacobs

[DrPensler]

Patients often loose weight after surgery for gynecomastia thru diet and exercise. In the perioperative period ( time just after surgery ) you should maintain a balanced diet typically in the range of 2400 calories/day  to facilitate optimal wound healing.