Tips to Prepare For Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Gastric sleeve surgery has emerged as a highly effective and popular option for individuals struggling with obesity.

It’s a procedure that reduces the size of the stomach, resulting in reduced food intake and weight loss. It involves removing most of the outer portion of the stomach, leaving behind a smaller inner pouch, like a sleeve, that can hold less food. The remaining portion is then sealed with staples or surgical glue to prevent stretching, allowing for more effective and long-term weight loss.

Gastric sleeve surgery can produce significant and rapid weight loss, with patients typically losing between 50 to 70 percent of their excess body weight in the first year after the procedure. Patients typically experience a decrease in appetite, as well as increased feelings of fullness after eating smaller amounts of food. This new sensation can help to reduce overeating or snacking throughout the day.

Although this type of surgical procedure can produce dramatic and long-lasting weight loss, there are certain steps you need to follow before going under the knife. With the tips below, you can prepare adequately for gastric sleeve surgery and reach your health goals.

Change Your Diet

Eating a balanced pre-op diet is essential when preparing for bariatric surgery and it’s the only foolproof way to ensure the best results. Your doctor will switch you to a special pre-op diet approximately two weeks before the procedure.

In addition, you’ll have to change your diet. For instance, make sure you eat food rich in protein and low in carbohydrates. Protein helps keep your body fueled during the procedure while carbohydrates can increase hunger levels afterwards. Make sure to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, including at least 64 ounces of water. Eating healthy sources of fiber like fruits and vegetables can also help support a healthy digestive system. Avoiding alcohol and sugary drinks will help reduce your risk of developing serious complications during surgery.

By making small changes to your diet now, you can prepare your body for gastric sleeve surgery and set yourself up for success afterward. By incorporating more fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains into your pre-op diet, you will reach your goals and feel healthier overall. 

Have a Support Group

Undergoing gastric sleeve surgery is a life-changing decision, and it’s important to have a strong support system in place before and after the procedure. A support group can be crucial in providing emotional, informational, and practical assistance throughout your weight loss journey.

Having a support group can provide you with the opportunity to connect with others who are going through or have gone through similar experiences. This sense of community can be incredibly comforting and reassuring as you navigate the challenges associated with gastric sleeve surgery.

In this group, you can share your fears, concerns, and questions with individuals who understand firsthand what you’re going through. They can offer valuable insights, advice, and encouragement based on their experiences. Additionally, they may be able to provide practical tips on managing post-surgery lifestyle changes such as dietary modifications and exercise routines, and the shared commitment to health and wellness within the group can inspire you to stay on track even when faced with obstacles or setbacks.

Quit Smoking

Quitting smoking before undergoing gastric sleeve surgery is not only beneficial but also crucial for a successful outcome. The decision to undergo this life-changing procedure shows a commitment to improving your health and quitting smoking is an important step in that journey.

Smoking has numerous detrimental effects on the body, especially when it comes to surgical procedures. It can increase the risk of complications during and after surgery, such as infections, poor wound healing, and respiratory issues. Additionally, smoking can impair the effectiveness of anesthesia and prolong recovery time.

By quitting smoking before gastric sleeve surgery, you are giving your body the best chance to heal properly and achieve optimal results. Not only will it reduce the risk of complications, but it will also improve your overall health and well-being in the long term.

Get Insurance and Financing

Gastric sleeve surgery is a major medical procedure, and as such, it’s important to make sure that all of the financial aspects are taken care of before going ahead.

Securing proper insurance coverage for your gastric sleeve surgery is essential to avoid unexpected out-of-pocket expenses. Many insurance plans now offer coverage for bariatric procedures, including gastric sleeve surgery, as they recognize the long-term health benefits it provides. It is advisable to thoroughly review your insurance policy and consult with your provider to understand the extent of coverage available to you.

In cases where insurance coverage may be limited or unavailable, exploring financing options becomes imperative. Financing companies specializing in medical procedures can offer flexible payment plans tailored to fit your budgetary needs. These financing options enable you to spread the cost of the surgery over a period of time, making it more manageable and accessible.

Final Thoughts

Proper preparation plays a vital role in ensuring the success of gastric sleeve surgery. By adhering to dietary guidelines, undergoing necessary medical evaluations, and preparing mentally for this life-changing procedure, patients can set themselves up for a healthier future post-surgery.