Once you’ve scheduled weight loss surgery (WLS) with Valeriu E. Andrei, M.D., Bariatric Associates, P.A., you may have questions. What should you expect? What will happen on the day of your procedure? There’s no need to worry – you’re in great hands with Dr. Andrei. But to help you feel more confident, these weight loss surgery preparation tips will let you know what to expect.
One Week to Go
Day-of preparations begin well in advance of your procedure. This is because the best way to have a successful surgery and worry-free day is to follow Dr. Andrei’s instructions to the letter. Make sure you observe all of these directions before your WLS to avoid delays, worry, and frustration.
Halt certain medications
To prevent excess bleeding and ulcer development pre- and post-op, you must stop taking blood-thinning medications, like ibuprofen aspirin, Motrin, Naproxen, vitamin E, and others.
Adjust your diet
Many pre-WLS diets are available online, but be sure to follow only the instructions provided by Dr. Andrei’s team. These protocols were personally developed by Dr. Andrei to ensure the most successful outcome for every patient. Your pre-surgical diet may include:
- Diet Jell-O (any type EXCEPT red-colored)
- Sugar-free, non-carbonated beverages
- Low-sodium broth
- Decaf coffee or tea
- Protein shakes
- Chewable/liquid multivitamins
- Chewable vitamin D and calcium
- Sugar-free popsicles (any type EXCEPT red-colored)
If you have any questions, reach out to Dr. Andrei right away. Failure to properly follow the pre-surgery diet plan could result in delays or less successful results.
Make post-op preparations
Several proactive measures can maximize your comfort after surgery. One of these is filling prescriptions ahead of time. You should also confirm transportation to and from the hospital well in advance to save stress on the morning of your operation.
Designating a post-op resting area is another great way to reduce stress. Reclining chairs work well as they relieve pressure on incisions and let you rest comfortably. Finally, pack a surgery bag with a comfortable, loose-fitting outfit, a journal to record your experience, and important forms, such as:
- A copy of advanced directives
- Insurance card
- Driver’s license/photo ID
- List of current medications
Having easy access to this paperwork will speed the registration process and give you peace of mind, so you can focus on having a successful procedure.
The Night Before
Your most important task the night before surgery is getting plenty of rest. You will stop eating and drinking at midnight. If you eat or drink anything besides water after midnight, alert hospital staff immediately upon arrival.
Surgery Day
All of your prep work will pay off on this exciting day. Upon arrival at the hospital, remove any makeup or facial piercings to help streamline surgery prep for Dr. Andrei and his team. After registering at the front desk, a nurse will take your blood pressure and temperature, verify your personal information, and administer an IV. You will receive anesthesia, ensuring you feel no pain.
After surgery, you will be moved to post-anesthesia care. There, you may receive pain and anti-nausea medications. Depending on the type of procedure you’ve had, several medical devices may monitor your body and prevent blood clots. These devices should not cause any discomfort and will help ensure the best care possible. One or two days post-op, Dr. Andrei recommends walking with the aid of medical staff. This process, although difficult, mobilizes painful built-up gas. Medical staff will also monitor your fluid intake and urine output during this period.
Up to a week post-op, Dr. Andrei recommends a clear liquid diet. You should slowly drink between three and four ounces every hour. If you feel fatigued, sluggish, or dizzy or develop headaches, you may need to increase fluid intake.
With You Every Step of the Way
If you feel anxious about your WLS, remember that Dr. Andrei will be there to guide you through the process. After performing more than a thousand bariatric procedures, his experience and compassion ensure you will feel comfortable and confident on the day of your surgery. Should questions arise before your procedure, please contact Valeriu E. Andrei, M.D., Bariatric Associates, P.A. by calling 800-200-5553 right away.
