Your Day of Weight Loss Surgery

Posted by Dr. Nick Nicholson on November 2nd, 2014

Preparing for weight loss surgery begins many months before the actual surgery itself as you gather information related to the particular procedure and prepare physically and emotionally for this life changing event. By the time you get to the day of surgery, you will likely be more than ready to get the show on the road. But what can you expect from those days and hours leading up to your surgery? What will the actual day bring for you?

When it comes to preparing for the day of weight loss surgery, keep the following in mind:

The night before surgery, your doctor will likely ask that you:

                Have only liquid for dinner.

                Drink or eat nothing after 10 p.m.

                If you take insulin, talk to your doctor about what dose to take the night before surgery.

The next morning:

                Do not eat or drink anything.

                Do not take any medications other than your blood pressure pills.

                Wear glasses instead of contact lenses.

                If you use hearing aids, bring them with you.

                Remove all jewelry including piercings.

                Wear your most comfortable clothing.

                If you use a C-PAP or BiPAP machine, bring it with you.

When you arrive at the weight loss clinic, you will be checked in and asked to complete any necessary paperwork and consent forms. Following your check-in, you will go to a pre-op area where you will change into a gown and meet with your doctor and anesthesiologist. If you brought a friend or family member with you, you can bring them with you to the pre-op area. At this time, you will be given some medicine to relax you and compression pumps which help with circulation will be attached to your legs or feet.

When you are ready to go into surgery, you will be transported to the operating room where you be given medication to make you sleep. Your doctor will communicate with your family to let them know how you are doing. When you wake up, it will be the beginning of a whole new life.

About Author

One of the most experienced weight loss surgeons in the country – Dr. Nick Nicholson – along with a full staff of surgeons, nurses and other experienced clinicians, help patients reverse obesity with LAP-BAND, Gastric Bypass, Sleeve Gastrectomy and Revisions.