What are you doing to prep for your upcoming surgery

Dr S. mentioned that I should start consuming more protein to better recover after the surgery.  What are your thoughts on this?  Also, is it a good idea to step up on the exercise/diet portion?  Thanks...

Protein does help healing, so I followed his advice and made sure I drank 2 protein shakes a day to help.  I started this 1 month preop.  I healed very quickly, so I must have done something right!  Also, exercise will also help in healing as well and will help you keep your energy levels up post op.  I am 3 1/2 weeks post op and really ready to get back in the gym!  I know it is too early, but I am so ready!

Jessica

Jessica,
Did Dr S say how long before you can return to working out?  I am thinking I need to put my membership on hold to save the money.  I was thinking maybe 8 weeks?  I swim laps at my club and work out at home. 

Dee,

I haven't discussed it with him yet because I knew it would be at least 6 to 8 weeks.  I plan on asking him soon though, and I will let you know what he says.  I think it will depend on what type of procedures were done.

Jess

Dr S told me nothing heavier than 5 lbs for 6 weeks. Walking yes but strength training, hard workouts to wait for 6 weeks.

Thanks Antonette!  I figured about 6 to 8 weeks.  I am doing strength training now that I've upped my protein.  I think with upping my protein and strength training my body will be in better condition.  I've also on a challenge to ride my bike 500 miles before surgery.  I've done 200 in the last 3  weeks.

I am focusing on protein also and want to make sure that I stay well hydrated as well.  I tend not to drink as much water in the colder months so I'm trying to keep chugging away.

How much more protein?  Is it based on body weight or lean mass?  As part of my normal diet, I'm getting about 1 g per pound of lean mass.  Just wondering how much extra is advised.

thanx
Mark

It is a fact that protein helps improve healing. I start packing in the protein 3 weeks prior and 4-6 weeks post op.  I normally have 80-100 grams of protein so I up my intake to about 120-150 pre op/post op.  It's easy to do by drinking Whey Protein Powder (each scoop with 5-6 oz water is about 25 grams of pure protein).
Definitely working out and being in good shape pre-op is important.  Prior to my tummy tuck I worked harder on strengthening my legs because I knew I'd need them to lift myself up out of the chair without using stomach muscles.  It worked, I was able to get up by myself just using leg strength.

Best wishes on your journey...

Are you shifting calories away from fat and/or carbs as you take in more protein?  Or is the extra protein on top of your normal calorie intake?

thanx
Mark