Bariatric surgery is a great option when you're overly obese, and other weight loss methods haven't helped. Taking control of your health is a big step toward a healthier, longer life, and getting ready may seem daunting.
The truth is that preparing for bariatric surgery is one of the most critical parts of the entire process, along with the recovery.
If you're ready to schedule bariatric surgery, Dr. Robert Snow and our team at Snow Bariatric Center in Fort Worth and Flower Mound, Texas, offer several forms of surgery to fit your needs and goals.
Preparing for bariatric surgery begins weeks to months before the actual day of surgery. It's a significant undertaking, as you're about to change the rest of your life by losing weight and improving your health.
There are several ways to prepare for bariatric surgery, including physically preparing your body. Some of the tips for preparing for your upcoming procedure include:
Having realistic expectations when going into bariatric surgery is a good idea. For example, you won't wake up after surgery and lose 50 pounds overnight.
Bariatric surgery is a tool to direct your body to a healthier weight by eating less and incorporating physical activity. Know what to expect so you're satisfied with the results.
Bariatric surgery is an invasive procedure. Dr. Snow and our anesthesia team must ensure you're healthy enough to undergo surgery.
We may recommend bloodwork, a physical exam, and other testing to ensure your heart and lungs can withstand surgery.
Regular exercise before and after surgery is essential to achieving long-term weight loss. Getting into the routine of exercising is a good option so you become disciplined enough to achieve your goals after bariatric surgery.
Nutrition is a prominent aspect of bariatric surgery before and after the procedure. Before surgery, it's crucial to change how you eat by cutting back on portions and focusing on healthy choices like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
After surgery, you'll need to follow a strict diet that's sometimes entirely liquid for several weeks. You should know what foods you can begin with when we allow you to start eating solid foods.
Along with preparing physically, you must also care for your mental health. Carrying excess weight or stressing about surgery can negatively affect your mental well-being. Here are some tips for mental preparation:
Obesity sometimes leads to depression, which can negatively affect your success after the procedure.
It takes a lot of commitment and effort to lose weight after surgery. If you're living with depression, you must control it before undergoing bariatric surgery.
Support groups can help you relate to people going through a similar journey. Dr. Snow provides all the information you need to find a support group that suits your needs before and after bariatric surgery.
Food addictions are a real problem that can lead to significant weight gain. If you're ready to undergo bariatric surgery, you must understand your addiction and seek help from a therapist to ensure your success after surgery.
Knowing what to expect at each journey step can help ease anxiety. Talk to Dr. Snow and your care team about your concerns and what to expect so you can go into surgery with a calm and clear mind.
Getting ready for surgery is an essential strategy to improve the success of your procedure. Other crucial tips to help you prepare for the next step in your weight loss journey are:
Although most insurance companies provide coverage for bariatric surgery, yours may require some further information. Check with your insurance to see if you need to send in documentation of prior weight loss attempts, current chronic medical problems, or your BMI to ensure they'll cover the procedure.
Bariatric surgery is a massive step in your weight loss journey, and you should educate yourself as much as possible before the day of the procedure. Watch videos about the procedure, talk to people who've already undergone bariatric surgery, and reach out to our care team.
The more you learn, the better off you'll be on the day of and after surgery because you'll know what to expect at each stage.
To schedule a bariatric surgery consultation with Dr. Snow, call one of the offices in Fort Worth or Flower Mound, Texas, today or request a consultation on the website.
