Weight loss surgery has been recognized by the National Institute of Health (NIH) as the most effective solution for individuals struggling with obesity and its associated health concerns. While it is natural for people to desire quick results, it is crucial to approach bariatric surgery as a carefully planned process for long-term success. In this blog, we aim to provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of bariatric surgery, from pre-operative preparation to post-operative recovery. By equipping you with the necessary knowledge, we hope to empower you to make an informed decision when choosing the most suitable type of weight loss surgery.
Pre-Weight Loss Surgery Phase:
- Step 1: Attend a consultation with your surgeon
- The first consultation is typically at least 1-hour in length. The surgeon will evaluate eligibility, discuss surgical options, and address all questions and concerns. They will then discuss next steps to start the journey towards surgery.
- When considering bariatric surgery, it is crucial to seek guidance from experienced surgeons who can provide expert advice and support. These surgeons will assist you in exploring the range of surgical options available, offering detailed explanations of the benefits and potential outcomes associated with each procedure. They will take the time to address any concerns you may have, ensuring that you have a comprehensive understanding of the rare risks involved in bariatric surgery.
- Step 2: Build healthy habits
- While bariatric surgery provides an effective tool to promote and sustain weight loss, nutrition and lifestyle changes will be needed. It’s important to complete all nutrition education so lifestyle changes can start before surgery to prepare the body for the procedure.
- Step 3: Medical assessments and tests
- Bariatric surgery is a comprehensive process, with patient safety and health at the center of all decisions. Most patients undergo many medical evaluations, such as blood work, imaging scans, nutrition education with a registered dietitian, and psychological evaluations, to assess overall health and suitability for surgery.
- Your health is top priority. Clearances from certain specialists may be required based on your insurance and/or health history.
- Cardiology or pulmonology clearance
- Clearance from your primary care physician
- Gastrointestinal evaluation
- Sleep apnea testing
- Step 4: Psychological Consultation
- Psychological evaluation is required for everyone pursuing weight loss surgery. It is important to identify any emotional triggers to eating such as stress, anxiety, or depression. Mental health providers and bariatric dietitians will work with patients to address any concerns before surgery.
- Step 5: Insurance and financial considerations:
- All health insurance plans are different, so it is important to work with someone on knowing what is covered and what you are offered. Typically, someone from the surgery office will verify your insurance benefits and requirements for surgery. Be sure that you understand these requirements and ask questions if needed.
Day of Weight Loss Surgery:
- Admission Pre-Op:
- When arriving to the hospital or surgery center, patients will be registered by the front desk, then taken to the pre-operative preparation area. A pre-op team will explain the procedure and review consent forms for signature. The surgery team will speak with patients and ensure all questions are answered before surgery begins. Sometimes the pre-op team may start giving certain medications to help the body prepare for surgery.
- Anesthesia and Surgery:
- The anesthesiologist will ask you questions about medications, medical history, and allergies before administering medications for surgery. Medications will be given through an IV and breathing mask. A breathing tube will be placed down your throat to assist with breathing while under anesthesia.
- Duration of surgery:
- Once general anesthesia is started, surgery will begin. Surgery is carefully monitored by the anesthesiologist, nurses, and surgeon. On average, bariatric surgery takes 45 to 90 minutes, depending on the type of surgery and if any other procedures are being completed.
Immediately After Surgery:
- Recovery: In the recovery room, goals include pain and nausea management, and monitoring of vital signs and potential complications.
- Oral Intake: Most patients start sipping water or ice chips immediately after waking up from anesthesia. Intake will be limited at first, but will progress over time.
- Following the surgical procedure, there will typically be a period of 1 to 2 days during which eating is restricted. This allows your stomach and digestive system to heal effectively. Subsequently, you will transition to a carefully designed specific diet that you will follow for several weeks. Most patients are back to eating regular foods about 6 weeks after surgery.
- Discharge: If surgery is done at a surgery center, patients will go home the same day. Patients having surgery at a hospital typically stay overnight and go home the day after surgery. Nurses at the surgery center and hospital will provide education about medications, how to take care of incisions, and other needs before patients go home.
Early Recovery Phase:
- At Home: Walking as much as possible is essential for recovery. Patients will get medications to help control pain and nausea. Incisions are typically closed with skin glue so it’s important to care for them properly. Patients can shower the day after surgery, but should avoid soaking in a bath or swimming pool until it’s okayed by the surgeon.
- Follow-up appointments: Bariatric surgery is a lifetime commitment. It is important to attend all follow-up appointments to monitor progress, address concerns, and make any necessary adjustments.
- Physical Activity and Mobility: Walking after surgery is encouraged to release built-up gas and promote good circulation. More intense activities or weight / resistance training should be avoided until cleared by the surgeon - usually about 1 month after surgery.
Long-Term Recovery:
- Nutrition: Continuing nutrition changes for a lifetime is essential for long-term success. Attending appointments with the bariatric dietitian, taking vitamins, eating enough protein, and focusing on fluid intake are things that must be continued for life.
- Weight-Loss Milestones and Progress: Weight loss happens differently for everyone, so it’s important to avoid comparing journeys to others and to set realistic expectations. Average weight loss is about 10 pounds per month (5 pounds for gastric band patients). Weight loss is not linear - there will be some ups-and-downs in weight over time, which is normal and should be expected. Most patients reach their goal weight within 12 to 18 months after surgery, depending on how much excess weight was present to start.
- Emotional Adjustment: Emotional changes should be expected after surgery. Body image issues, adjustment to a new lifestyle, changes to social experiences (eating at restaurants) can all play a role. Seek support from the bariatric team or psychologist who specializes in bariatric surgery patients when needed to help make these adjustments as smoothly as possible.
Support and Resources:
- There are multiple support groups, online forums, and resources that can offer guidance, encouragement, and a sense of community throughout the recovery journey.
- Remember that bariatric surgery is forever - continue to come to annual visits with your bariatric team and reach out any time in between for ongoing support for your journey.
Conclusion:Understanding the timeline of weight-loss surgery, including what to expect before, during, and after the procedure, is crucial for individuals considering bariatric surgery. This blog has provided a comprehensive overview of the process, pre-operative preparations, the surgical procedure itself, and the recovery journey. By knowing what to expect and seeking support from healthcare professionals and support groups, individuals can navigate the weight-loss surgery journey with greater confidence, making the most of their transformative experience.
