Preparing for Weight Loss Surgery
There’s a lot to do in the months, weeks, and days leading up to surgery. Below, we’ve provided a sample timeline of what you can expect as you prepare for bariatric surgery.
Initial Consultation
The first step is a consultation at our offices with a bariatric surgeon and other members of your care team. Here, we’ll get you familiar with the process and go over your medical history.
What to Bring:
● A list of all medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins.
● The names and phone numbers of any physicians you have recently seen.
You’ll leave this consultation with directions to the surgical facility, a list of pre- and postoperative instructions, emergency contact numbers, and information about support groups for bariatric surgery patients.
What to do in the weeks leading up to your procedure
● Follow all of your surgeon’s instructions.
● Make arrangements for someone to drive you to and from the hospital.
● Fill prescriptions you’ll need after surgery.
● Quit smoking! It’s imperative that you stop smoking at least 30 days before surgery.
● Don’t drink alcohol for at least 48 hours before surgery.
What to do the night before your procedure
● Pack a personal bag with comfortable clothes.
● Remove valuable items from your purse or wallet.
● Take off all jewelry and leave it at home.
● Bring the proper documents to the hospital: o Insurance card o Medical power of attorney o Advance directive or living will
● Bring reading material, especially the educational material you received from our offices.
● Carefully follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding eating and drinking the night before surgery. Failure to do so could postpone your procedure!
