Preparing for bariatric surgery is a transformative journey that requires careful planning and commitment. For patients seeking expert care from a bariatric surgeon on the Sunshine Coast, understanding what lies ahead is essential for a successful outcome.
Dr Puhalla has put together a guide on the preparation process, including lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments and emotional readiness, to help you feel confident about your surgery.
Initial Steps to Take Before Surgery
The first step is a comprehensive consultation with your bariatric surgeon. This includes evaluating your medical history, current health and weight-loss goals. Blood tests, imaging and other diagnostic evaluations may be required to confirm you are a suitable candidate.
You will also need to follow specific pre-surgery instructions, such as stopping certain medications or supplements and adopting a low-calorie, high-protein diet.
This preparation reduces liver size and minimises surgical risks. The liver decreases in size due to reduced glycogen stores and water content, a physiological response to a low-calorie diet. As glycogen depletes, the liver becomes less fatty and more pliable, making surgical access easier and safer.
Dietary Changes for Optimal Results
Adjusting your diet is a critical part of preparing for bariatric surgery. Your surgeon may recommend starting a liquid or semi-solid diet two weeks before the procedure. This diet helps prepare your body for surgery and aids in post-operative recovery.
Focus on:
- Nutrient-rich foods
- Lean proteins
- Vegetables
- Healthy fats
- 2 litres of water per day
Avoid:
- Sugary drinks
- Fried foods
- Processed snacks
This will maximise your body’s readiness for surgery.
Importance of Physical and Mental Preparation
Physical activity is another important part of preparation. Light exercises, such as walking or swimming, can improve your fitness level and aid post-surgery recovery. Even small tweaks to your daily activities, like taking the stairs instead of the elevator, can make a difference.
Mental readiness is just as important. Weight-loss surgery can be a life-altering experience, and emotional preparation is vital. The dramatic outcomes of the operation, such as rapid physical transformation and the need to adapt to a completely new lifestyle, can be overwhelming without proper mental preparation.
Emotional readiness helps manage the psychological impact of these changes, including altered eating habits, self-image adjustments and potential shifts in social interactions.
Consider joining support groups or speaking with a counsellor to address any concerns or anxieties and build resilience for this transformative journey.
What to Expect on the Day of Surgery
On surgery day, you will need to bring a list of any current medications and have fasted as per instructions.
After the procedure, expect to spend one to two days in the hospital for observation and pain management. Your surgeon will provide specific postoperative care instructions, including dietary guidelines and follow-up appointments.
Prepare for surgery with the Sunshine Coast’s top bariatric surgeon today! Book now!