MattB

I was always a big "gulper." I'd not drink regularly, but would down a whole glass at a time periodically throughout the day. Had a hard time wrapping my head around not doing that at first. I'm not quite 4 weeks out but pretty quickly after surgery, liquids weren't a problem for me. By the 4th day or so, I didn't have to sip anymore. I can't down an entire glass at once, but I can take several large "gulps" or mouthfuls with no problem. I can get down 8oz fairly quickly. Once I even got down 16oz in about 30 min without paying attention and had no issues. Without a doubt, I'm better hydrated now than I've ever been and I don't even feel like I have to try to do it. Bottom line is I would definitely not let the fear of losing you ability to enjoy liquids sway your decision. Good luck to you!

Bummer, I was hoping risks were going down now that I'm on day 5, but what you are saying makes a lot of sense. That was helpful, thanks!

Hi All: I'm wondering if anyone can tell me what the time window is to worry about complications after surgery. I imagine it decreases over time and I also realize there are extreme cases of leaks many months to even years after surgery. But in general, I'm wondering if the risk of leak or embolism is greatest during the first X number of days or weeks, and decreases to X% by X number of weeks after surgery. Anyone out there know where to find this type of information? Thanks in advance for your input!!