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10 TIPS FOR HOW TO PREPARE FOR BARIATRIC SURGERY

Preparing for bariatric surgery involves both physical and mental preparation to ensure the best possible surgery outcome in long term. Here are 10 tips to help you get ready:

  1. Educate Yourself. Learn about bariatric surgery, specific procedures and what to expect during recovery, and the mindset and lifestyle changes required after the procedure. Understanding the process will reduce stress and anxiety and help you feel more in control. Understand that long term success after bariatric surgery will depend on your daily choices and commitment to lifestyle change.
  2. Prepare Emotionally And Mentally. Obesity is often connected to mental and emotional issues. Consider counselling for mental and emotional adjustments to be sure you will be able to commit to lifestyle and emotional changes post bariatric surgery.
  3. Follow the Pre-Op Diet. Follow the liver reduction diet (LRD) recommended by your healthcare provider. This diet helps shrink the liver and reduce inner fat tissue volume making surgery safer and easier. Your surgeon will inform you about the certain amount of the excess weight that should be lost prior to the surgery.

4. Quit Smoking. If you smoke, quit as soon as possible. Smoking increases the risk of blood clotting during and after surgery and can hinder the healing process. Smoking post bariatric surgery may increase the risk of stomach ulcering and esophageal diseases.

5. Start Exercising. Begin incorporating light to moderate physical activity into your daily routine. Even small changes can improve your cardiovascular health and prepare your body for the demands of surgery and recovery.

6. Stay Hydrated. Drinking plenty of water (at least 1.5 l a day) is crucial before surgery to ensure your body is well-hydrated and to help with recovery afterwards.

7. Organise Your Home And Build a Support System. Prepare your living space for post-surgery recovery. Arrange your home to minimize the need for strenuous activity and stock up on the post-op foods and drinks you'll need. Surround yourself with supportive friends, family, join bariatric support groups. Emotional and practical support can be invaluable before and after surgery.

8. Plan for Time Off. Arrange for time off work or other responsibilities. Recovery time varies, but you'll need at least a couple of weeks to focus on healing and recovery.

9. Practice Mindful Eating. If you are considering bariatric surgery, start practicing mindful eating habits as soon as you have made this life changing decision. Learn to plan your time for meal prep and eating - chew your food slowly, savour each bite, stop eating when you're full. Do not drink and eat together. This will help you adjust to the new eating patterns required after surgery.

10. Follow Medical Instructions. Take prescribed medications or supplements if directed, and attend all pre-surgery appointments if you have such. Following your healthcare team's instructions is critical for a smooth surgery and recovery process.

 

In order to have a free consultation about bariatric surgery and how to prepare, contact Weight Loss Latvia Team!