This is one of those posts that nobody particularly enjoys writing — but based on how often it comes up in bariatric communities, it clearly needs saying.
Constipation after gastric sleeve surgery is real, it’s common, and for some people — us included — it becomes a long-term issue that requires ongoing management rather than something that simply resolves on its own.
Why It Happens
Several factors contribute to constipation post-op. Reduced food volume means less bulk moving through the digestive system. Lower fibre intake — especially in the early months when soft, protein-focused foods dominate — slows things down further. Reduced fluid intake, which is already a challenge post-sleeve, makes it worse. And some supplements, particularly iron, are notoriously constipating.
Our Honest Experience Two Years On
We won’t dress this up: two years after surgery, constipation is still something we manage actively. It hasn’t resolved itself the way we hoped it might.
At this point our toolkit includes over-the-counter options like suppositories, which help when things get uncomfortable and nothing else is working. On harder days — and they do happen — even those aren’t enough, and we’ve needed to rely on prescription medication from our GP to get things moving again.
It’s not glamorous. It’s not the kind of thing that appears in before-and-after posts. But it’s part of our reality, and if you’re post-op and struggling with the same thing, we want you to know you’re not alone and it’s not something to just put up with in silence.
What Helps Day to Day
Staying as hydrated as possible makes the biggest consistent difference. We also try to keep fibre intake up through vegetables, and make sure we’re moving our bodies regularly — even just walking helps keep digestion moving.
If you’re struggling, speak to your GP. There are options — from dietary adjustments to medication — and you don’t need to manage it alone.
Disclaimer: This post is based on our personal experience and is intended for general information only. It should not be taken as medical advice. Every journey is different, and it’s important to speak with a qualified healthcare professional about your own circumstances before making any medical decisions.