People have weight loss surgery for many reasons! Being overweight often carries health risks. For example, the cardiovascular system suffers, type 2 diabetes may develop, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and more. Many people choose a bariatric procedure. This procedure can truly change lives! However, it requires preparation. Let’s discuss the main steps of preparing for bariatric surgery.
The preparation process often begins well before the surgery date. Sometimes more than a year in advance. Take basic steps to prepare for your surgery.
Consult with a registered dietitian and make any dietary changes that are needed. What can you do right now? Eat smaller portions, chew your food thoroughly, stay hydrated, and track your food intake. Take vitamins and supplements when necessary. Do you have problems with blood sugar? Talk to your doctor. After surgery, you will start with a liquid diet and gradually move to soft foods and then regular foods.
Set clear weight loss goals. Start incorporating physical activity into your daily routine even before surgery. Even walking is a good start. After surgery, aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity each day. Of course, you should recover first.
Weight loss surgery involves significant lifestyle changes. These can impact your emotions, relationships, and social life. A psychologist will assess your mental health history, including any past experiences with depression, eating disorders, or weight loss attempts. They will help you ensure that you are prepared for the journey ahead.
The care team will assess your heart, lung function, and overall health. Sometimes patients need blood tests, endoscopies, and sleep apnea tests.
Start implementing healthy habits before surgery. Your life will change now. Let’s get started right away. Focus on improving your sleep, managing stress, and getting support from your family and medical team. If you smoke, try to quit. Smoking can lead to serious complications during and after surgery.
Many insurance plans cover weight-loss surgery, but you may need to provide documentation—your BMI, weight-related health conditions, and evidence of previous unsuccessful weight-loss attempts.
Weight-loss surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Your anesthesiologist will assess your body’s needs, such as intravenous access. This will help ensure the safety of the procedure, especially if you have a sleep apnea.
Learn more about surgery and life after it. Attend educational sessions, read patient testimonials, and join a bariatric support group. It is important to connect with others who have had the procedure.
Our team includes surgeons, nutritionists, psychologists, and nurses. We will carefully guide you through every step of the process!
Identify friends or family members who can support you throughout your journey. You will need someone to accompany you to the hospital, to follow-up appointments, and to support group meetings. Having a strong support system is essential.
Take advantage of the expertise and resources provided by your care team. Bring a list of questions for your consultations and pre-op appointments. Find out everything you need to know. You have the right to be fully informed. Make sure you are fully informed about weight loss sleeve surgery.
By following these steps, you will set yourself up for a successful journey to a healthier, happier life.
The doctor will carefully assess your physical health.
These tests help ensure that you are healthy enough for surgery and identify any potential risks.
The team will also review your current eating habits and diet. The doctor will review past attempts to lose weight, including any programs or methods you have tried.
This will help determine how best to support you after surgery.
Based on these assessments, the team of specialists will decide if you are a good candidate for weight loss surgery. If so, the doctor will recommend the most appropriate type of procedure.
Have you decided to take the step towards a healthier and more active life? Losing weight will give you improved health and well-being. If other methods have not justified themselves, bariatric surgery is a great option. We practice general and bariatric surgery with advanced minimally invasive techniques. Contact us at any time. We are ready to support you!
