As we’ve described in a previous post, the LINX procedure is a minimally invasive operation that can help to correct esophageal issues like chronic acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease. The vast majority of patients state that they are pleased with the results, but the surgery does require a small adjustment to your daily diet in the days and weeks following the procedure. Below, we take a look at how you should adjust your eating after LINX surgery.
First Two Weeks After Surgery
Interestingly, the first two weeks after LINX surgery are typically easier than the following weeks, which is why it’s often referred to as the honeymoon stage. After the LINX procedure is formed, your surgeon will recommend that you stick to a soft food diet for the first 24 hours. Soft foods are things that you can easily squish with your fingers, like noodles, whitefish and grapes, as well as other options like soup and yogurt.
Once the 24 hours has elapsed, you can go back to your regular diet. You may want to avoid certain small foods like rice or quinoa, which are hard to swallow, but for the most part, you can go back to a regular diet so long as you take small bites and chew your food well. As long as you watch your bite portions and chew well, there shouldn’t be any issue with foods like fruits, veggies and potatoes. Wetter options are easier than dry options, so steam your veggies and limit your intake of chips or crackers if they give you trouble.
3-8 Weeks After LINX Surgery
Alas, the honeymoon has ended, and it’s back to the real world. After about two weeks post-op, scar tissue will begin forming. This is a good thing, as it’s your body’s natural way of healing, but it can make it so that the LINX capsule doesn’t move as freely. This can make it a little harder to swallow, while others report esophageal muscle spasms. Eating actually helps to relieve these symptoms, so eating more small meals a day can help to prevent the mild discomfort.
Physical therapy after your LINX operation is probably the easiest physical therapy after any surgery, because eating acts as natural physical therapy! Small, frequent meals can exercise these muscles and prevent the LINX device from becoming immobilized by scar tissue. If you’re having difficulty swallowing certain foods at this time, warm liquids like tea or cider can help to relax the esophagus. Avoid carbonated beverages if possible, as this can lead to gassiness, belching and acid reflux symptoms. Find what foods work best for you, experiment with food options and eat small, healthy meals to strengthen the esophageal sphincter and prevent scar tissue from immobilizing the LINX device.
For more information on life after LINX surgery, or to talk to Dr. Koeplin about the benefits of the operation, reach out to his office today.
