Weight loss bariatric surgery is a life changing procedure for patients and preparing physically and emotionally before surgery is vital to ensuring the surgery is a sucess and recovery goes smoothly. Below is a list of ideas that can help you prepare for your surgery and recouperate at ease.

 

• Write a list of what you hope to achieve post-surgery: Patients make the decision to undergo weight loss surgery for many reasons health, social and career related. Before your bariatric surgery, define what motivates you to have surgery and write it down to refer to later. If it is to give you more energy for children or to regain confidence in work, to boost your physical health or to simply look and feel better - reminder notes can help keep you motivated and positive thinking.

• Set goals: Once you've defined what you hope to achieve, set goals to help you achieve them but be sure to make these goals realistic taking into consideration guidance from your surgeon

• Talk to family and friends about your concerns, worries and plans. Bariatric surgery can be a confusing time emotionally for the patient and also their support network. Talking openly before surgery will make everyone more relaxed and comfortable post-surgery which is especially important immediately after surgery in the recovery phase.

• Prepare your home: Daily tasks might be difficult for a couple of weeks and preparing the home beforehand can make life easier. Post-bariatric surgery patients are advised not to do any heavy lifting or strenuous activity as the body initially recovers; if you have children, engage someone to help with looking after them; make sure everything you will need is accessible and will not require stretching or lifting to access; stock-up on foods in-line with the recommended

  post-bariatric surgery diet and double check with your surgeon about any recommended vitamins/medications you will be prescribed.

• Make sure you have plenty of loose fitting clothes available: bariatric patients may need to have a drainage line left in the stomach for a few days/weeks after surgery to prevent any complications. Loose fitting clothes will make this more comfortable and make it easier for you to relax and concentrate on recouperating

• Meet with the weight loss clinics' nutritionist to discuss a post-surgery diet; having a clear understanding of what you will/won't be able to eat helps patients mentally prepare for life after bariatric surgery

Discuss any concerns with your weight loss surgeon; bariatric surgeons are dedicated to helping patients understand the procedures and any potential risks/side-effects. Write a list of questions and don't be afraid to contact your surgeon for any follow-up questions.

• Find support from other weight-loss surgery patients: Communicating with other people who have undergone weight loss surgery canmake the process easier. Remember, many of your questions and concerns will have been faced by others and sharing experiences can help put your mind at ease and demystify the process. Ask questions and share experiences with bariatric patients in forums and ask your surgeon about support groups in your local area.

• Research after-care: Most bariatric clinics offer a comprehensive after-care package. Find out what support is available and take advantage of the help and support offered.

• Prepare to relax: Weight loss surgery is a life-changing procedure, emotionally and physically. Make sure you have ways to relax during the recouperation phase to allow yourself to concentrate on recovery - stock-pile magazines, DVDs and books to enjoy as you rest in the initial period following surgery when it is likely you will want to spend time sitting/lying down.