Posted On : November 12, 2014 The outcome of any weight loss surgery is dependent not only on the operation but also the extend and depth of preparation before surgery and adherence to the post operative recommendation. The operation should be considered a planned injury to the body. We should enter the operating room in the best physical and mental condition possible to secure the best possible outcome. Optimizing your Pre-operative health status is the best plan for going into surgery in the best shape possible. Here are some basic steps to maximize the odds for a good outcome. Physical preparation:

• Maintaining a healthy diet
• Cessation of ALL tobacco and alcohol use
• Do not use NSAIDS prior to surgery or after surgery until cleared by surgeon
• Getting plenty of rest
• Staying Hydrated
• Pulmonary embolus prevention exercises such as ankle circles and point and flex toes
• Maintaining or starting a regular activity level. Any amount of increase in activity will benefit you after surgery. Walking, squats, lifting weights with arms
• Full laboratory blood studies and vitamin levels as ordered by the surgeon
• Start and optimize your vitamins, calcium and other mineral and supplements. Vitamin D deficiency increases surgical complications. (Another Vitamin D article)
• Manage preexisting health conditions (diabetes, sleep apnea, high blood pressure etc..) Follow instruction in regards to what medication to stop or continue before surgery i.e. Aspirin, blood thinners, medications that interfere/interact with anesthesia, etc.
• Two forms of Birth Control if indicated.

Mental preparation:

• Have a clear understanding of the procedure
• Study all information provided to you regarding your surgery
• Remember that surgery is one of many tools to assist in weight loss and improved health. It does not fix other issues.
• Realistic expectation of the outcome of surgery
• The role of family involvement for support
• Be prepared with all the purchases for the post operative diet, vitamin and mineral supplements.
• There is also a number of other variables that will improve the long term outcome of the weight loss surgery:
• Investigate Protein Supplements for the highest bioavailability
• Try and eat whole, unprocessed foods
• Read labels on all food items
• Look for high protein recipes
• Network with supportive people who will provide a positive influence
• Long term success also depends on:
• Maintain daily protein requirements
• Maintain daily vitamins, calcium, minerals and other supplements
• Routine follow up with your bariatric surgeon.
• Routine laboratory studies to surveil vitamin and mineral levels.
• Get your medical advice from your surgeon.
• Get suggestions from other patients. Do not confuse this with medical advice.

Weight loss surgical procedures are not an easy way out. On the contrary, weight loss surgical procedures are complex operations, from technical, metabolic, nutritional and psychologic perspective. A patient has to be prepared to deal with all aspect of the surgery for the best possible longterm outcome.