What to Know Before Bariatric Surgery | Healthier Body Institute
Bariatric surgery can be a powerful step towards lasting weight loss and better health. But it’s not a quick fix or a simple procedure. Before you decide to have surgery, there are important things to understand. In this article, learn what you should do before surgery, what to expect afterward, and how to prepare your body and mind for this life changing journey.
What Should I Do Before Bariatric Surgery?
Preparing for bariatric surgery means more than just scheduling the operation. It’s about getting your body and mind ready for the changes ahead. Here’s what our clinic recommends:
Follow a pre-surgery diet: Your surgeon will ask you to follow a special diet, known as the Pre-Op diet, to shrink your liver and reduce surgery risks. This Pre-Op diet usually involves high protein, low calories and low carbs for a few weeks before your surgery date.
Start moving: Even gentle exercise can improve your heart and lung health before surgery. Walking or light stretching helps.
Stop smoking: Smoking increases complications. Quitting at least a few weeks before surgery is crucial.
Attend educational sessions: Many centers offer classes or counseling to help you understand the surgery and lifestyle changes. We offer educational sessions virtually for our patients at Healthier Body Institute.
Arrange support: Plan for help at home after surgery. You’ll need assistance with daily tasks during recovery.
Taking these steps helps your body heal faster and sets you up for success.
What Medications May Need to Be Adjusted?
Before surgery, your medical team will review all your medications. Some drugs may need to be stopped or changed to reduce risks during and after surgery. Common adjustments include:
Blood thinners: These increase bleeding risk and are often paused before surgery.
Diabetes medications: Dosages may change as your diet and weight shift.
Blood pressure drugs: Your doctor will monitor and adjust as needed.
Oral Contraception: Estrogen based oral contraceptions will need to be switched to other contraception options a week or two before and after your surgery. This is because estrogen based oral contraceptions could increase your risk for blood clots.
Supplements: Some vitamins or herbal supplements can interfere with anesthesia or healing.
Always tell your surgeon and primary care provider about every medication and supplement you take. Never stop or change medications without professional advice.
What Role Does My Primary Care Provider Play?
Your primary care provider (PCP) is a key partner in your bariatric journey. They help by:
Evaluating your overall health: Your PCP checks for conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or lung problems that could affect surgery.
Ordering tests: They may order blood work, EKGs, or other screenings.
Coordinating care: Your PCP communicates with your bariatric surgeon to ensure all health issues are managed.
Providing ongoing care: After surgery, your PCP helps monitor your health and manage any new or existing conditions.
Keeping your PCP involved ensures a smooth process and better outcomes.
Who May Not Be an Appropriate Candidate?
Bariatric surgery is not for everyone. Some people may not be good candidates due to:
Severe heart or lung disease: Surgery risks may be too high.
Uncontrolled psychiatric conditions: Mental health must be stable to handle lifestyle changes.
Substance abuse: Active addiction can interfere with recovery.
Lack of commitment: Surgery requires lifelong changes in diet and habits.
Certain medical conditions: Some rare diseases or previous surgeries may complicate the procedure.
Your surgical team will carefully evaluate your health and readiness. If surgery isn’t for you right now, they may suggest other options or treatments.
What Testing Is Done Before Surgery?
Before surgery, you’ll undergo several tests to make sure you’re ready. These may include:
Blood tests: To check for anemia, liver and kidney function, blood sugar, and vitamin levels.
Electrocardiogram (EKG): To assess heart rhythm and health.
Chest X-ray: To check lung health.
Sleep study: If you have symptoms of sleep apnea, this test helps diagnose it.
Nutritional assessment: To identify any vitamin or mineral deficiencies.
Psychological evaluation: To ensure you understand the surgery and can handle the changes.
These tests help your team plan the safest surgery and aftercare.
What Should I Expect After Surgery?
Recovery after bariatric surgery involves several stages:
Hospital stay: Most patients stay 1 to 3 days. You’ll be monitored closely.
Diet changes: You’ll start with liquids, then move to pureed foods, and finally solid foods over weeks.
Pain and discomfort: Mild pain is normal and managed with medication.
Activity: Early walking helps prevent blood clots and speeds healing.
Emotional changes: Mood swings or feelings of anxiety can happen. Support is important.
Your body will need time to adjust. Patience and following your care team’s instructions are key.
What Follow-Up Is Required?
Bariatric surgery is just the start. Follow-up care is essential to keep you healthy and on track. This includes:
Regular doctor visits: To monitor weight loss, nutrition, and any complications.
Nutritional supplements: You’ll need vitamins and minerals for life to prevent deficiencies.
Support groups or counseling: Emotional support helps maintain lifestyle changes.
Lab tests: Periodic blood work checks your nutrient levels.
Physical activity: Staying active supports weight loss and overall health.
At Healthier Body Institute, we offer personalized follow-up programs to support you every step of the way.
What Questions Should I Ask My Bariatric Surgeon?
Before surgery, it’s important to ask your surgeon questions to feel confident and informed. Consider asking:
What type of bariatric surgery do you recommend for me and why?
What are the risks and possible complications?
How much weight can I expect to lose?
What will my diet look like after surgery?
How long is the recovery period?
What kind of support do you offer after surgery?
How will surgery affect my current medications?
What happens if I regain weight?
Asking these questions helps you understand the process and sets realistic expectations.
Integrating Supportive Services
At Healthier Body Institute, we understand that surgery is just one part of your journey. For example, our Comprehensive Bariatric Program offers personalized care plans that include pre-surgery education, nutritional counseling, and ongoing support. This program helps you prepare your body and mind for surgery and maintain your results afterward.
We also provide access to Nutritional Supplements designed specifically for bariatric patients. These supplements help prevent vitamin and mineral deficiencies common after surgery. You can learn more about these options on our supplements page.
Finally, our Post-Surgery Support Groups connect you with others who share your experience. These groups offer encouragement, tips, and motivation to keep you moving forward. You can find details about upcoming sessions on our support groups page.
Taking advantage of these services can make your journey smoother and more successful.
Choosing bariatric surgery is a big decision. Preparing well, understanding the process, and having the right support can make all the difference. If you’re considering surgery, start by talking with your healthcare team and exploring programs like those at Healthier Body Institute located in Easton, Massachusetts. Your healthier body and new life are waiting.
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