7 Pre-Surgical Ways to Improve Weight Loss Surgery Success

Bariatric surgery is a huge step on any weight-loss journey; for many patients, it can be their first chance at permanent weight loss. A patient’s pre-op behavior can maximize the success of a bariatric procedure – whether it’s the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, or a gastric balloon.

To help improve your rate of weight-loss success, we’ve created this checklist you can follow before your procedure!

Research your surgery.

We know that undergoing a bariatric procedure is a big deal. It can improve patients’ lives, but it is also a lifelong commitment that requires major routine changes. It can be daunting to navigate all the information available in books and online.

Luckily, the best information comes from the surgeons themselves. They know the ins and outs of the procedures and can explain what patients need to do to maximize their safety and success. Our doctors are the best of the best and are more than happy to answer any questions at one of our free informational seminars. Register for one today.
Quit smoking.

It’s no secret that smoking exposes people to a myriad of health issues, but it also increases the risk for complications during and after surgery. Whether you’re scheduled for a procedure or not, it’s best to stop smoking right away!

However, living tobacco-free is a process. We recommend quitting completely at least 3 months prior to your procedure to give your body time to adapt to the changes.
Switch up your meal schedule.

After a bariatric procedure, you won’t be able to eat large portions anymore; your stomach capacity will be greatly reduced, and you’ll need to eat more frequently to get your daily value of vitamins and nutrients. The best way to get used to these new changes is to start practicing before your procedure.

Your day should consist of 3 main meals with two smaller snacks in between. Avoid eating 4 hours before bed and focus on new foods – your diet should consist of lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables, while decreasing consumption of fatty foods.
Track what you eat.

Knowledge is power prior, before AND after surgery. Keeping track of eating habits is a great way to be active in developing even healthier habits. By recording what you eat and drink, you will know when and where you need to make improvements towards living a healthier lifestyle.

Being consistent in tracking, will help you stay focused on your goals and ensure you’ll be able to hit them.
Make your mental health a priority.

Surgery can be stressful, even before the procedure has been performed – and after. Patients need to work hard, set their expectations, and be prepared to learn and grow along the way.

Because lifestyle changes can cause struggles, we recommend that patients have a strong support system of family and friends. These are people who can help you physically as well as emotionally. They’ll pick you up when you’re down, keep you motivated, and help you remember why you began this journey!

Studies show that support and a positive attitude will boost your health and quality of life.
Start a good workout routine.

The best time to start exercising is right now! Consistent physical activity – no matter how small – can have profound effects on the body. It can provide you with more energy as well as boost your mood; working out releases endorphins which help you feel more positively throughout the day.

So why wait? We even have some tips to help you get started.
Listen to your surgeon.

The best advice we can give is to follow the instructions of your surgeon. They know the details of your procedure, inside and out, and what you as a patient need to be successful. Be sure to follow their tips and guidelines after you consult with them, and you’ll be on the right track.

At NYBG, patient success is always our #1 priority. Our surgeons are some of the most skilled and compassionate in the field of bariatrics. Our practice employs every person you’ll need to see before your surgery – get prepared for your procedure during one visit. See what we can do for you today: https://bariatric.stopobesityforlife.com/patient-journey/beginning-your-journey/

Back to blog Schedule a Consultation

Sign Up

Back to Blog

I went in for surgery. An hour later, I came out a new man.

5.0

Everybody treated me like a king. The day of surgery, I was excited. The hospital couldn’t be any nicer. I went in for surgery. An hour later, I came out a new man. My recovery was awesome. I was out of bed that day. My wife and kids were my motivation on getting this surgery. They are my whole life. I’m happy I’m going to be around for them.

I hit my goal weight ... and I feel fabulous

5.0

I had the gastric bypass. I am Type 2 Diabetic and I wanted to gain control of my sugar. I hit my goal weight in about 5 and half months and I feel fabulous. The procedure has completely changed my life for the better because it has empowered me as a middle aged woman that I can really do everything and anything that I want to do. I don't put an age on anything. I don't say I'm too old for something.

I was tired of the way I looked. I was tired of the way I felt.

5.0

I knew if I didn't change something soon, I was going to be in a lot of trouble. The consultation process was a lot easier than I expected. I was met with open arms. I was treated like I was the only patient here. Not only did they answer all of my questions, they had questions for me to make sure I was the right candidate for the surgery. After surgery and that weight started dropping off, my life started changing for the better.

I feel like a completely different person.

5.0

I had the gastric sleeve procedure. The driving factor behind me getting this procedure was my health. I didn't feel good physically or mentally. I had joint pains, even standing was difficult sometimes. Emotionally, this surgery completely turned my life around. I have so much more confidence. So much more happiness. I feel like a completely different person. I feel stronger. I feel able to accomplish more.

It saved my life.

5.0

The driving factor behind me getting my procedure was that I couldn't get up off the floor with my granddaughter. That was my why. That was my big reason for having this surgery done. After surgery, it was a little bit of a struggle with what to eat. What you put in your mouth that you don't even think about. You don't think about what you're eating or how you're eating and portion size. It's what I do now every single day. The procedure has changed my life in so many ways. It saved my life.

I am totally comfortable in my own skin.

5.0

I think I always grew up identifying myself as less than other people because I was fat. I decided to tackle that and just live my life. I had a sleeve gastrectomy. It changed how I view myself. How I communicate with people. I'm able to be much more of myself and live the life I always thought I should have been living. I am totally comfortable in my own skin. You have the tools you need to succeed here.

I have a brand new life. I can do things I couldn't do before.

5.0

I had a vertical sleeve gastrectomy because I had just become diabetic, and I had hypertension for many years. I lost a total of 157 pounds in 11 months. I have a brand new life. I can do things I couldn't do before. Everyone at New York Bariatric Group has been wonderful. They are kind. They are understanding. They make you feel comfortable. They will guide you every step of the way on your journey so that you can be successful.

7 Pre-Surgical Ways to Improve Weight Loss Surgery Success

Back to blog Schedule a Consultation

Sign Up