Hi, I am a classical/opera singer and was asked to sing at a concert 8 days after my Gastric Bypass surgery but I am unsure if I will be able too since I used my abdominal muscles to sing and support my breadth (the Bel Canto technique for anyone who understands). I am assuming that because of the stitches it would be unwise to sing so soon after my surgery since.

I was wondering if anyone here has any experience regarding this or can tell me what their post bariatric surgery instructions where regarding rest and healing.

Thank you

I waited until about 4 weeks after my bypass, to begin lifting heavy things (85-pound bales of hay) and that was a mistake.

I'm not a singer, so I don't know what kind of strain you will be putting on your abs. But, if it's anything like lifting heavy things, I wouldn't do it.

It's important to note that the recovery period following bariatric surgery can vary from person to person, and the specific instructions given by your surgeon should be followed closely.

During the first few weeks after surgery, it's important to avoid any activities that put a strain on the abdominal muscles, as this can increase the risk of complications and delay healing. This includes activities such as heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and singing.

You should avoid singing for at least a month or even more, as your abdominal muscles and diaphragm may be weak after surgery and using them to sing can cause pain, discomfort and delay healing.

It's important to listen to your body and avoid any activity that causes pain or discomfort. Consult with your surgeon or therapist, they may be able to give you more specific advice based on your individual case.

It's also important to remember that the recovery period is an important time to focus on healing and taking care of yourself. It's important to follow the post-surgery instructions, getting enough rest, and allowing yourself time to recover both physically and emotionally.

14 hours ago, Allycaterpillar said:

Hi, I am a classical/opera singer and was asked to sing at a concert 8 days after my Gastric Bypass surgery but I am unsure if I will be able too since I used my abdominal muscles to sing and support my breadth (the Bel Canto technique for anyone who understands). I am assuming that because of the stitches it would be unwise to sing so soon after my surgery since.

I was wondering if anyone here has any experience regarding this or can tell me what their post bariatric surgery instructions where regarding rest and healing.

Thank you

I am not a good singer, much less a trained one. But I can attest that 8 days after surgery, I was still wearing baggy yoga pants 24/7 and using a cane to go from sitting to standing (and vice versa) because of the soreness of my abdominal muscles. I cannot even begin to imagine engaging in a public singing performance. I would very much cancel.

On 1/12/2023 at 1:51 AM, Allycaterpillar said:

Hi, I am a classical/opera singer and was asked to sing at a concert 8 days after my Gastric Bypass surgery but I am unsure if I will be able too since I used my abdominal muscles to sing and support my breadth (the Bel Canto technique for anyone who understands). I am assuming that because of the stitches it would be unwise to sing so soon after my surgery since.

I was wondering if anyone here has any experience regarding this or can tell me what their post bariatric surgery instructions where regarding rest and healing.

Thank you

I have been wondering the same thing. I also sing (not near to your ability) and wondering how long before I can deep enough breath to hit the notes I am used to. My surgeon told me initially that it would be about 3 weeks before I can go back to singing comfortably.

I just sing for fun with my church choir. It took me four months to build up my stomach muscles to reach F and G. I noticed remarked improvement after I was cleared for weight lifting and yoga. You will get more gigs and you will have more stamina (Adele). Only you know your body, but I can only suggest you let yourself heal. Professional singing takes serious abs!