Hockey

Question
I am a 43 year old male with a BMI of 36 with certain co-morbidities.  I am considering having bariatric surgery performed.  I don't know which type of surgery would be best though.  I really enjoy playing sports like hockey on a regular basis.  One of my concerns is over whether or not I would still be able to play after recovering from surgery.  I don't play in a checking league, but physical contact does occur.  And I drink a lot of liquids to stay hydrated while I play.  Are you able to play sports like hockey after bariatric surgery and is a certain type of surgery (i.e. bypass or lap band) better suited for this?

Answer
Paul,
I'm glad you are thinking ahead as you plan your bariatric surgical procedure.  I'm especially glad that you plan to remain active or become more so after your surgery.  The most direct answer to your question is that (after initial recovery and after you are released by your surgeon) you should be able to do any kind of sport including heavy exertion and solid contact after any of the operations.

On a side note, we as a national surgical community are becoming less enthusiastic about the Band as a lasting procedure - please discuss this with your surgeon.

Best of luck!

Dr JP

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