Gastric Sleeve Instructions for Pre-Op
Part of this process involves communicating exactly what patients can expect before, during, and after their gastric sleeve procedure. Knowing what to expect before gastric sleeve surgery, as well as how to prepare for it, allows you to understand weight loss guidelines during the entire treatment process.
The Importance of Pre-Treatment Instructions
First, knowing what to anticipate before any surgical procedure can help alleviate fears and worries of the unknown. We want our patients to feel at ease under our care, and part of that process is transparency regarding your weight loss program.
Second, gastric sleeve surgery requires numerous preparations, some beginning several weeks before the procedure. Therefore, it is important for patients to have a thorough understanding of the process, from beginning to end.
Several Weeks Before Gastric Sleeve Surgery
If you drink alcohol or use tobacco products of any kind, you will be asked to stop smoking and consuming alcohol for several weeks leading up to your gastric sleeve procedure. Both excessive alcohol consumption and smoking seriously impede your body’s natural healing ability and increase the risk of complications both during and after surgery. By eliminating these habits, you can improve your chances of a comfortable and successful recovery.
You should also begin drinking more water and limiting other beverages to get your body used to the post-operative diet. Try to drink at least 64 ounces of water daily and start to eliminate sources of empty liquid calories such as alcohol, soda, juice, energy drinks and coffee with cream or sugar. Eliminate caffeinated and carbonated beverages and stop drinking liquids with your meals. Wait 30 minutes after a meal to have water.
Two Weeks Before Surgery
In most cases, we will ask patients to begin a liquid diet to prepare for weight loss surgery. Not only will this create ideal conditions for the operation itself, but it will also help patients become accustomed to the dietary expectations in the days and weeks following treatment.
Generally, a liquid diet will consist of protein shakes and plenty of water, as well as broths, sugar-free gelatin and low-calorie sports drinks. Our staff will discuss specific guidelines with you during your pre-op consultation.
One Week before Surgery
Like most other surgical procedures, patients will need to stop taking any blood thinners one week prior to treatment. This will expedite healing and prevent major blood loss during the gastric sleeve operation.
Other medications may also require you to discontinue them prior to surgery. These include:
- Arthritis medications
- NSAIDs, including aspirin and aspirin alternatives
- Herbal supplements
- Anti-coagulant medications
Consult with your primary care doctor if you have concerns about medication restrictions prior to surgery.
The Day Before Your Gastric Sleeve Procedure
Generally, patients will need to begin fasting at midnight the night before their procedure. This will decrease the risk of nausea and other serious surgical complications.
The Day of Your Surgery
On the morning of your procedure, patients should take necessary blood pressure medication with a small sip of water. Avoid other medications, as well as all foods and beverages.
Patients should feel as comfortable as possible on the day of their operation. Be sure to wear loose-fitting clothes, and avoid wearing makeup, contacts, or jewelry. If you require glasses or a hearing aid, you can bring them with you to the hospital.
Your surgery day marks the beginning of your new life. Stay positive and enjoy knowing that you are doing something constructive for your long-term health.
Contact Tijuana Bariatric Center for More Information
Bariatric surgery, including gastric sleeve surgery, is an excellent way to lose weight and reclaim a healthy lifestyle. At Tijuana Bariatric Center in Tijuana, Mexico, we believe that compassionate patient care begins at your first virtual consultation with our staff.
If you are planning on undergoing gastric sleeve bariatric surgery, following your pre-operative instructions is essential for a successful recovery and outcome.
During a virtual consultation at our practice, we will provide you with everything you need in preparation for your treatment. To learn how you can improve your life and health through bariatric surgery, or to speak to a team member, contact us online or call 800-970-0577.
