Preparing for Weight Loss Surgery

After attending a bariatric surgery seminar, the subsequent consultation with one of our surgeons, then being cleared for surgery, it is time to begin preparing for your procedure and life after surgery. There will be some logistical considerations and some essential physical and psychological preparations.

First and foremost, for your health:

• Quit smoking as soon as possible. This will improve and speed up your recovery. Smoking can constrict blood vessels which reduces circulation.
• There is some debate about whether starting your bariatric surgery diet before the procedure is effective. You can never begin to be healthy too soon, so we suggest experimenting with a few after-surgery recipes while also cutting out some of the most unhealthful foods you eat, such as fast food and refined sugars (simple carbs) and saturated fats.
• Try to begin exercising. This does not have to be strenuous exercise but rather a way to raise your heart rate and improve circulation.
• According to your surgeon’s guidelines, follow the pre-surgical diet.

When it comes to the medical aspects of preparing for surgery, you will be given a pre-surgery packet that explains what you should and shouldn’t do. It is imperative that you follow this closely as it has been developed based on clinical best practices.

You’ll also wish to address logistical issues well in advance. These can include:

• Taking the appropriate amount of time off work (up to 6 weeks depending on the procedure and type of work) or arranging to work from home during recovery
• Arrange for the care of any dependents, including children or elderly relatives
• Pack your bags for the hospital to include loose, comfortable clothing, essential toiletries, and other items for up to 3 days, depending on the procedure.
• Prepare your home for at least a week of limited movement. Consider preparing a downstairs guest bedroom during your initial recovery if your bedroom is upstairs. Early on, it will be difficult and dangerous to climb stairs.
• Arrange for someone to bring you home from the hospital and help you for up to a week after returning home. They can handle light housework and shop for you. Have a backup plan in case they have an emergency to handle.

The more prepared you are before surgery, the less stressful it will be during your recovery. After all, in the days and few weeks after surgery, you will be healing from a major surgical procedure and embarking on a significant lifestyle change. The last thing you need is to worry about things that do not concern your health or getting on the path to your new life.