If you’ve long found it difficult to lose weight, you may be a good candidate for gastric sleeve surgery. This operation involves removing part of the stomach—including the area that produces ghrelin, the hunger hormone—so that you feel full sooner when you eat. By curbing caloric intake, it becomes easier to lose weight. As your appointment draws near, proper preparation will help ensure the surgery is a success.

What to Do Before Gastric Sleeve Surgery

1. Adjust Your Diet

Your doctor will recommend a pre-op diet, which you will likely have to start two weeks prior to the procedure. Often, a liquid diet is prescribed. This helps reduce the size of the liver, which can otherwise physically get in the way during the procedure. 

2. Quit Smoking

Gastric sleeve surgery is done under general anesthesia. Unfortunately, cigarette smoking increases the risks associated with anesthesia. Nicotine use may also delay healing afterward.

For best results, stop smoking eight weeks before surgery. At an absolute minimum, don’t use cigarettes during the 24 hours leading up the appointment.

3. Get Prescriptions Filled 

Your doctor will prescribe medications to support a comfortable recovery. These may include stool softeners, antibiotics, and pain relievers. Fill your prescriptions beforehand so you don't have to stress about sending someone to the pharmacy on your behalf.

4. Get Your Home Ready

Rest is essential after any surgery, so it’s wise to take care of household chores like cleaning and laundry before your operation. Set up a comfortable spot for your recovery where you can easily access essentials, such as medications, water, and entertainment options.

It will be important to minimize activities to avoid overexerting yourself. While you should plan on waiting two to three weeks before returning to work, certain activities are beneficial. Walking in the days following the procedure, for example, can help prevent blood clots from forming deep in the veins.

5. Learn About Aftercare

Gastric sleeve surgery alone isn't the solution. Since you'll be able to consume less, you need to embrace a healthy diet so you get the vitamins and nutrients you require.

Ask your physician about ensuring a proper diet, which may include recommendations for supplements, such as calcium, iron, and vitamins D, C, and B12. You may also find it helpful to join a support group for others who have changed their lives with this procedure. The perspectives of others may offer the encouragement you need before and after the surgery.

Colquitt Regional Medical Center of Moultrie is the trusted medical provider for residents throughout southwest Georgia. The only hospital in the area to receive a top A-grade rating for safety 10 years in a row from The Leapfrog Group®, they’ve had a longstanding commitment to giving the local community personalized and attentive care since 1929. They have more than 60 skilled doctors covering over 20 medical specialties, including joint replacements, women's health care, and emergency surgical care. Learn more about their bariatric services, including gastric sleeve surgery, online. To schedule an appointment, call (229) 985-3420 today.