Diet after Reflux Surgery and Hiatus Hernia Surgery

What can you eat after Fundoplication or Hiatus Hernia Surgery?

After reflux surgery or hiatus hernia surgery, your diet will need to change temporarily while you recover. You will usually progress gradually from fluids to puréed foods, then soft foods, before returning to a more normal diet when Dr Hopkins advises.

This gradual progression helps you swallow more comfortably while swelling around the operation site settles. It is important not to rush through the stages, as foods that are too firm or difficult to swallow may cause discomfort.

Dr Roy Hopkins is an Upper GI Surgeon who performs surgery for reflux and hiatus hernia. This guide explains the usual dietary stages after these operations, which foods may be suitable, what to avoid initially and how to make eating more comfortable during recovery.

Your post-operative diet at a glance

• First 2 weeks after hospital discharge: Fluid diet.

• Following 2 weeks: Puréed diet.

• Following 2 weeks: Soft diet.

• After approximately 6 weeks: Gradually progress towards a normal diet as tolerated and according to Dr Hopkins' advice.

These timeframes are a guide. Follow the specific instructions provided by your surgical team.

Stage 1: Fluid diet

During this stage, all foods and drinks should be pourable and have a smooth, runny consistency with no lumps.

Stage 2: Puréed diet

During the puréed stage, food should be blended until completely smooth, with no lumps or pieces. Foods should be moist and easy to swallow..

Stage 3: Soft diet

During the soft-food stage, foods should be tender, moist and easy to crush with a fork. You should be able to chew them easily before swallowing.

Foods to avoid in the early recovery period

Some foods and drinks should be avoided initially because they may cause discomfort or place pressure on the operation site.

Fizzy and carbonated drinks

Avoid fizzy drinks, carbonated drinks and lightly sparkling drinks initially.

After surgery, it may be difficult to belch or burp. Gas from carbonated drinks can build up in the stomach and place pressure on the operation site, potentially causing complications or discomfort.

Doughy foods

Avoid bread, pastries and other foods made from dough during the first four weeks after surgery, as their texture may make them difficult to swallow and they may become stuck.

Acidic drinks and other irritants

Acidic fruit juices, including orange, pineapple, grapefruit and tomato juice, may cause irritation. Apple juice and fruit nectar drinks are less acidic alternatives.

Avoid chilli, other spicy foods and alcohol for six weeks after surgery, as advised in your post-operative diet plan.

General tips for eating after surgery

The way you eat can help make recovery more comfortable.

• Eat and drink slowly. Avoid gulping food or drinks.

• Sit upright when eating and drinking.

• Remain upright for 60 minutes after meals.

• Eat small, frequent meals rather than large meals.

• Choose a variety of suitable foods to help maintain adequate nutrition.

• Chew all foods thoroughly once you have progressed to the soft-food stage.

• Choose nourishing drinks such as milkshakes or fruit smoothies when appropriate for your current diet stage.

When can you return to a normal diet?

After approximately six weeks, most patients can begin progressing towards a normal diet as the swelling settles. Some patients may need longer, and your ability to tolerate different foods will vary.

Introduce firmer textures gradually, chew thoroughly and pay attention to how you feel. Avoid rushing to eat foods that were restricted during your initial recovery.

Need further advice about your recovery?

Following your post-operative diet is an important part of recovery after hiatus hernia repair or anti-reflux surgery.

If you have questions about your diet progression, are unsure whether a food is suitable, or are having difficulty swallowing or maintaining your nutrition, contact your treating team for advice.

To learn more about the surgery visit the GORD surgery and fundoplication page, the hiatus hernia repair page, or the Reflux and Hiatus Hernia Surgery overview.

For enquiries or appointments with Dr Roy Hopkins, visit the contact page.

This guide is general information and does not replace the specific instructions provided by your surgeon and treating team.

Why choose Dr Hopkins?

Dr Hopkins has a special interest in hiatus hernia and reflux surgery. He has published long-term research into the success of the different surgical approaches in a randomised controlled trial (Hopkins, Irvine, Watson et al., British Journal of Surgery 2020).

Dr Hopkins is experienced in performing hiatus hernia surgery and surgery for reflux and is able to tailor the operation to suit your needs with a focus on your quality of life.