Preparing for surgery

Weight loss surgery is like other major surgeries. The best preparation is to understand the obesity surgery risks and potential benefits and to closely follow your doctor's instructions. To mentally prepare yourself:

• Understand the surgical process and what to expect afterwards.
• Talk to people who have had weight loss surgery.
• Write a letter to yourself and your surgeon explaining your reasons for having the obesity surgery and outlining your plans to maintain your weight loss after surgery.
• Start a journal about your experience. Record how you feel now, the obstacles you encounter, the things you hope to be able to do after obesity surgery.
• Get a letter of support from your family. It helps to know you have people behind you, waiting to help.

To physically prepare yourself, strictly follow your doctor's guidelines. These usually include, but are not limited to:

• Follow your surgeon's pre-surgery diet instructions strictly.
• Be certain to follow your surgeon's instructions regarding any medications you may be taking to control other health conditions.
• Arrive on time, with supplies from home for a two- to eight-day hospital stay depending on your procedure.
• Remember to bring your Hospital Admission Form, your Health Fund details and your doctors referral to the hospital on the day of your admission.