Every year, men and women across the U.S. opt to have bariatric surgery. This common weight loss surgery includes three individual procedures including the lap-band, gastric sleeve and most common, gastric bypass. Preparing for the surgery can be a bit daunting and even overwhelming. There are also a number of physical recommendations that all patients should consider while preparing.
Instructions
1. Educate yourself about the various procedures and potential side effects of the surgery before you continue. This will help you decide whether or not moving on to the next step is the right thing for you. Find information at online resources, talk to others who have had the surgery and even call the bariatric center near you.
2. Set up a consultation with your doctor. Bariatric surgery is not a surgery that anyone can request. There are strict rules set in place for individuals considering the operation and not everyone is eligible.
3. Join a support group once you decide bariatric treatment is right for you. This support group will consist of people who have been approved of the surgery and also those who have already had the surgery. They will act as a support throughout your preparation.
4. Continue (or begin) an exercise regimen and maintain a healthy diet. These will be required after the surgery, so it's best to get a head start. Most, if not all, doctors will ask you to do this before you're even approved for the surgery.
5. Quit smoking at least 30 days before your surgery. Smoking makes your lungs sensitive, which can lead to complications during and after the procedure (including pneumonia).
6. Avoid consuming alcohol at least two days before the surgery.
7. Abide by the doctor's recommendations and suggestions the night before your surgery. Most patients are not allowed to eat or drink for a certain amount of time leading up to the surgery. Because everyone is different, your doctor will prescribe an individualized regimen right before the surgery.
8. Secure a friend who can pick you up and drop you off the day of your surgery. This person, or others, will probably need to help you for several days after the surgery, so choose someone who is close to you.
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