This depends on the person, the person's age, and so many other factors.  I was 23 after step one - my sister was 18. We waited 6 weeks between step one and re-connect.  It's hard to remember, but I know it took several weeks to even go do much walking at all.  Then, we slowly built up.  Also, we were on pain meds, so yes, we slept a lot. We lost a LOT of weight. We could eat 1/2 a grilled cheese sandwich and a few green beans and feel SO FULL. I do remember that.  Then, had the reconnect - which for us was so easy compared to part one.  I went back to work full time after that in 4 weeks.

Looking back, I can't believe I did that!  I think when young and determined, it's amazing what you can do.  I took me about a year to gain all the weight back and feel really comfortable in the "new normal" - but I worked full time teaching high school during that year.  I lost 30 pounds during the process - and put them all back on over time.  People thought I was anorexic, etc. - this makes me laugh thinking of it - some were so sure of this (nice older teachers at my work - only concerned) - I would have to take them in the restroom and show them my big scar just to get them to see I was eating all I could eat and I was not anorexic!

My mom has watched my Dad go through this type of surgery and open heart surgery - she says the GI was a much longer recovery.  (For him, anyway).  The point is - the recovery takes whatever time it takes - I wouldn't push or expect a lot too early. I think my sister and I slept quite a bit for at least 3 weeks post op - and took naps and went to bed early during the next 3 weeks. Then, back to 2nd step.  Things may be different now as surgeries are done less invasively - so that is supposed to make recovery easier.  I don't know for sure that it does, but I am sure the doctor will say - get up and go!  They usually do say that - and I get the psychology of that - but my experience was that it took longer than what doctors said.  Others will get up and go super fast - it's such a personal thing- I'm sure there are parameters of "normal" - but no one is going to be on some exact time table.  Write again if you get worried.  Be sure he is remaining hydrated.  Hang in there - I think my poor mother had a tougher time taking care of up post op than we did going through it. It's very hard on a parent to watch his/her son go through this - it may look worse to you than it is for him. 

Is he taking anything to slow the gut so he can absorb more nutrients? It is very early and this may mostly be loss of retained fluids that is common after surgery. Have you tried supplementing with something like Ensure? Easy to diegest compared to a regular diet.

But, keep a close eye on him and continue to monitor his weight. If it does not turn around in the next few days, be a squeaky wheel with the surgeon.

Jan

Thanks.  His gut is pretty slow.  He only empties his bag 3-4 times a day and it is on the thicker side.  He tried the ensure but says they are heavy and make him feel nauseous.  We are going to dr today for follow up.

Hope doc can get him some help with the nausea.