Weight-Loss Surgery:
What to Expect and How to Prepare
Minimally invasive weight-loss surgery may be the best long-term solution for extreme obesity. Health problems can dramatically improve or disappear shortly after the bariatric procedure. Here are things to know in the weeks leading up to weight-loss surgery – and what to expect afterwards.
EMOTIONAL HEALTH
Before surgery, psychological assessments can help you prepare and adjust for the journey ahead.
DIETARY CHANGES
Dietary tweaks include smaller portions, fully chewing food, staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol, taking vitamin supplements and tracking calorie intake.
PRE-SURGERY TESTING
Medical tests completed prior to surgery may include blood count, urinalysis, sleep apnea testing and bone density tests.
CONSISTENT EXERCISE
When a doctor clears you, start exercising for 30 minutes most days of the week to improve circulation and metabolism.
RESTFUL SLEEP
Getting seven hours or more of rejuvenating sleep supports immediate weight-loss efforts as well as long-term maintenance.
SIDE EFFECTS
It’s normal to experience fatigue, nausea, vomiting, postsurgical pain, weakness, loss of appetite and diarrhea.
