How You Can Prepare for Weight Loss Surgery

Weight loss surgery is a big event in a person’s life, and is a surgery that takes some time to recover from. It’s also an inpatient procedure that requires the patient to spend a few days in the hospital after surgery. There are things you can do to prepare, however

Mental Preparation

Commit. This surgery is not a quick fix, and it’s not the easy way out. It takes commitment, otherwise the risks are enormous and the payoff is minimized. Set target milestones with your surgeon. Your surgeon will give you some input on what to expect as far as weight loss post-op, and you want to have those in mind. Take note of triggers that cause overeating and practice improved eating behavior in the months leading up to the surgery. It may be worthwhile to seek professional help with your disordered eating before surgery in order to make the transition more successful.

Before Surgery

Inform your surgeon or nurse about any medications, vitamins, alternative remedies, or therapeutic practices you use. Keep those with you in the bag. Prepare some liquid meals in advance. Invest in a blender or liquidiser, as you’re going to be eating liquid and pureed food for several weeks after surgery.

Bring the following into surgery:

● Pajamas, underwear, and comfortable day clothes for when you leave the hospital. ● Dressing gown and slippers ● Toiletries, especially mouthwash. Halitosis is a common side effect after this surgery. ● Entertainment, including your mobile phone. You’re going to be in the hospital for a few days post-surgery. In conclusion, even though bariatric surgery is a big event in your life, there are things you can and should do to prepare for it. It’s not going to be easy adjusting to the weight loss and the other effects of the surgery, but it’s ultimately going to be worth it!