No one gains fat in such a short time - it's likely all fluid, perhaps from the salt in the IV, inactivity, etc. For short time-frames (less than a couple of weeks) the scale is a great tool for monitoring fluid load but quite useless for monitoring body fat. You'll pee that fluid out within the week, I'd wager, if everything else is normal.

Well considering I've never gained weight so quickly, even after a drinking binge the night before, I can only ascertain it's normal given the fluids via IV in the hospital, etc. That said, though, I did urinate like 4 liters in the hospital, so I don't know. I guess, like before, I'll just have to wait it out.

A common concern. This is typical. Surgery is trauma. Trauma causes what is called "third spacing" of fluids. Basically, it means that fluids move out of the blood stream and in between the cells (as opposed to inside of them) in what is known as the third space. It is the reason extra fluids are given during surgery (to keep the blood pressure up). After 3-4 days, things normalize and fluids return to the blood stream, get filtered out by the kidneys, and removed through urine.

So, you are right around that point. However, keep an eye on that belly, because if that is all fluid, it bears watching. More than likely, it is mostly gas distention, and it should go down as your output picks up. Advance your diet slowly and go back to clear liquids if you develop significant abdominal pain and/or vomiting. If your belly becomes very firm, you definitely need to call your doctor, and if it becomes "boardlike" go to the emergency room.

It is easy to pack on pounds through excess fluid, as it is a pound a pint, and it can be spread out all over without you hardly noticing. Also, consider that you may have been dehydrated prior to your surgery, so actually less than normal. Quick weight gain or loss in a matter of days is always fluid shifts, not fat or muscle.

Jan

Thanks. My surgeon's nurse today told me I was worried over nothing considering my surgery was only 4 days ago. Oh well, I can wait it out. And yes, the gas bloating seems plausible. It does feel like I'm packing some air in there, and have quite a bit of gas when I use the bathroom.

Thanks for the input, guys.