Pre-Op Preparation...Can You Help?

Hello everyone! I am writing to ask for some help from you all. I am scheduled for surgery on August 11. I am trying to ween myself off the unhealthy things and things I will not be able to have afterwards. Can anyone share their experience or any sort of plan that may have worked for them? Such as 4 weeks before surgery, 3 weeks, 2 weeks, etc....Any steps taken...if you started your protein or supplements before surgery, in what form and how often? I would appreciate hearing from you! Thanks so much! Kathy

I weaned myself off caffine and sugars prior to surgery. I thought I would have enough problems without withdrawal symptions as well. Find out what your surgeon and nutrionist will allow you to have when you come home from the hospital and have them ready for you when you get home. I was on clear liquids for the first 2 weeks. I also bought up staple supplies like toilet paper, paper towels, soaps and things like that so I would not run out and be required to send someone to the store. Do not go overboard in stocking up on things that you eat. With a limited diet, you get tired of it easily. I also found out my taste changed and I become lactose intollerant.

I stocked up on vitamins, b-12 and calcium based on my nutritionist's suggestions. I also got several protein shake samples from various websites (wlssuccess, vitalady, texaswls, bariatriceating are a few) so I could find some that I liked before I spent money on something that was awful to me. I also got a new blender for home and some shaker cups for work for making my shakes. As far as the diet prep, I tried to take smaller bites, chewed my food really well and tried to not eat and drink at the same time. I didn't have to do any special diet prior to surgery but I tried to not go overboard for the month prior, except when I was having my few "last suppers" (Olive Garden, steak dinner and big breakfast) the week before surgery. Lastly, try to wean yourself off carbonation (soda). Good luck, Amy

Hi Kathy- I didn't really do much pre-surgery except cook enough to feed an army for 2 months and froze it! I did buy all the liquid stage, soups, pudding Anywhey protein, etc. Also vitamins and Citrical.... Congrats on the upcoming date!! Best of luck... Don't forget the wooden spoon and baby wipes!! 222/162/1?? laprny 1-6-04

It's so funny to read everyone's responses and remember my pre-op jitters almost three years ago. If I had it to do over again, I wouldn't lay in a big stock of stuff [vitamins, shakes etc] because my tastes turned so fickle afterwards that a lot of expensive stuff went in the trash or to local WLS people. I wouldn't wean myself off of anything, either [except smoking]. Whatever is going to happen will happen, perhaps in spite of your best efforts! The ONLY advice that I would give is to begin a walking regimen now [if you are not already doing it] so that your lungs are somewhat strengthened before surgery. I wish you great success in your journey and if you need anything, please feel free to ask me.

Kathy, I agree with Ellen. Your tastes will dramatically change. I would, however, suggest getting a good supply of the sugar free popsicles and sugar free jello. When I couldn't get in all my liquids these things kept me from dehydration. Just as your tastes will change so will your bowel habits. You may have to learn different "signals" that your body gives. Besides all the usual stuff you take to the hospital (pillow, chapstick, etc.) take a small spray bottle for personaly hygeine. Once you are out of surgery twisting and turning to reach certain areas can be painful. Good luck. My prayers are with you! luvitsunnyv

Such good advise form each of you folks. I bought a few cans of broth and some cubes, in additions to all the above. One thing I did stop was my coffee and hot tea. No cokes either. Did not think I could go through caffeine headaches with everything else. Having a time with sweets. Keep thing last "suppers and desserts". Not much else I will miss, oh my how stupid that sounds!!!! Marla 8/3/04