How to Prepare for Weight Loss Surgery

     Weight loss surgery, also called bariatric surgery, is a big event in the lives of many people. Usually, by the time a weight loss surgery like gastric band surgery is prescribed to a patient, he or she is morbidly obese and health issues have taken hold. Gastric band surgery and other procedures are performed to get a patient out of the danger zone and to reverse serious health problems before it's too late.

Sleep apnea, diabetes, high blood pressure and other health risks are all possible when you're obese, and if you can't seem to lose weight through conventional means, bariatric surgery may be the only solution. Once weight loss surgery is prescribed, you'll have to go through a handful of steps to prepare for your procedure.

A consultation with your surgeon is one of the ways you'll prepare for bariatric surgery. In the appointment, you'll learn the details of your specific procedure, whether it's gastric band surgery, gastric bypass or another weight loss surgery. You'll need to bring a list of any medications you're on and vitamins or supplements you take. You'll have to provide information regarding your medical history and let the surgeon know if you've experienced any anesthesia complications in the past. In your consultation, the surgeon will provide you with a list of pre and post operative instructions to make the whole process easier and less stressful for you.

As the date of your weight loss surgery approaches, go out and get any supplies that you've been instructed to get for your recovery and modify your medications as per your surgeon's instructions. Set up a ride to the hospital and home again, and find someone to help you for several days after your gastric band surgery or other weight loss surgery. After bariatric surgery, even the simplest tasks will be difficult for a while. Before you go in for weight loss surgery, have any prescriptions filled that your surgeon gave you for afterward, so you won't have to worry about it later. If you smoke, it's wise to stop for at least a full month before undergoing bariatric surgery. Serious complications with your lungs may result if you continue to smoke. It's also wise to refrain from drinking alcohol for at least 48 hours before the bariatric surgery.

The night right before you have to go in for surgery pack your bag for the hospital with all the personal items you're going to need. Take off all your jewelry and take out credit cards and bank cards from your wallet. Bring comfortable clothing to wear after the weight loss surgery, so you're comfortable. Eat or drink according to your surgeon's instructions, to help avoid any complications. If you're having gastric band surgery or gastric bypass and have received any instructions specific to your procedure, be sure to follow them completely to ensure a successful weight loss surgery. The primary goal of your preparation is to make it so the only thing you have to think about is healing and getting well.

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