10 Things to Know Before Weight Loss Surgery

Undergoing bariatric surgery is a life-altering decision that requires careful planning and informed choices. Today, we provide you with a comprehensive list of 10 things to know before weightloss surgery, guiding you through each step of this significant journey towards a healthier life.

10 Things to Know Before Weight Loss Surgery

#1: Understanding the Types of Weight Loss Surgery

Different types of bariatric surgeries, such as a sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass, and a LAP-BAND®, offer different pathways to weight loss. Knowing the pros and cons of each can help you make an informed decision with your doctor that suits your specific needs.

#2: Are You the Right Candidate for Weight Loss Surgery?

To qualify for bariatric surgery, patients usually must meet specific criteria, such as having a BMI over 35 (or roughly 70 pounds overweight) with comorbidities/obesity related issues or a BMI of 40 (or roughly 100 pounds overweight), as well as suffering from obesity-related health issues. A psychological evaluation is often part of the pre-surgical screening process to assess your readiness for the lifestyle changes ahead.

#3: Acknowledging Surgical Risks

While bariatric surgery can offer transformative benefits, it’s crucial to acknowledge that every surgery comes with risks, including infection, bleeding, or anesthesia-related complications. Your medical team will discuss these risks in detail so you can weigh the benefits against the potential risks.

#4: Pre-Operative Visits and Consultations

Before undergoing the surgery, you’ll attend several consultations, including evaluations by a dietitian and a psychologist. These visits aim to prepare you mentally and physically for the life-changing journey ahead.

#5: Day of the Surgery: What to Expect

The day of your surgery involves arriving early at the hospital, undergoing anesthesia, and spending a few hours in the operating room. Your team will provide you with a detailed itinerary to alleviate any anxiety and ensure you’re as prepared as possible.

#6: Life Immediately After Bariatric Surgery

Your first few days post-surgery will likely involve some discomfort, limited mobility, and diet restrictions. Typically, you will need a short hospital stay to monitor your initial recovery and ensure no complications.

#7: Post-Operative Complications to Watch For

After you’ve returned home, you will have a health checklist to follow to prevent after-surgery issues, but it is essential to be vigilant for signs of complications such as infection, excessive pain, or digestive issues. If you notice any of these symptoms, contacting your doctor immediately is crucial.

#8: Establishing a Successful Post-Surgery Routine

The surgery is only the beginning of your weight loss journey. To ensure long-term success, you’ll need to focus on a healthy diet, regular exercise, and other high-quality life choices.

#9: Hormones, Pregnancy, and Women’s Concerns

Another crucial aspect women should be aware of before weight loss surgery is that they need to make adjustments if they’re on birth control or hormone therapy. It’s important to avoid pregnancy for 12 to 18 months after surgery due to changes in medication effectiveness and fertility levels.

#10: Benefits, Expectations, and Outcomes

Remember, bariatric surgery is not a cure for obesity; it is a tool that can facilitate weight loss and improve many obesity-related health conditions. Your behavior post-surgery will largely determine your long-term success, so it’s essential to stick to the new lifestyle changes you’ve adopted.

Bariatric surgery offers an opportunity for significant life improvement, but it requires a strong commitment to lifestyle change. By understanding these key points, you’re better equipped to make an informed decision and prepare for the ups and downs of this transformative procedure.

Are you ready for a full consultation? Please book an appointment with us at Cernero Surgery & Aesthetics to learn more details about the things to know before weightloss surgery and how you can get started on transforming your life. 

Posted in: Bariatric Surgery, Weight Loss Surgery