Tips on Preparing for Lap Band Surgery

For people who suffer from obesity, Lap Band Surgery has proven to be an effective method of losing a large quantity of body mass. Before a patient undergoes the surgery, they must make the proper preparations in order to have a successful surgery and successful post surgery weight loss period. The following is a list of tips on preparing for lap band surgery:
Education: Before you have lap band surgery, you should learn all about the procedure. You will find a wealth of information online, including videos. As well, you should consult with your lap band surgeon, your patient coordinator, nutritionist and psychotherapist and people who have had the procedure. You should learn about: how the procedure is performed, what you will expect after the surgery, potential side effects and complications, how to physically and emotionally prepare for the procedure, and what you should be doing during the recovery period.
Medications: You need to learn about what type of drugs you should avoid before and after the surgery, including over-the-counter medications. You should also learn how long you should avoid taking specific drugs. As well, you should make sure you have acquired the necessary medications that are required for the recovery period such as pain medication. There other important medical items you should have such as bandages and dressings, and a thermometer.
Lifestyle Changes: There are certain activities that increase surgery complications. For instance, you should stop smoking and drinking alcohol at least 2 weeks prior to the surgery.
Arrange Support System: It is essential that you have people to support you after the surgery. The surgery only lasts about 45 minutes so you will need to have someone to drive you to the clinic and back home after the surgery.
Clothing: Select the clothing you will wear on the day of the procedure and during the recovery period. The best clothing is loose fitting and comfortable items as you do not want to feel constricted and aggravate any incisions.
Prepare For Your New Diet: The recovery period will involve a change in diet. You should understand what you have to eat and in what texture. Make sure you have acquired the necessary foods that you will be consuming. Get a copy of the surgeon’s diet protocols.
Plan Recovery Period: There will be specific time periods where you will add new foods to your diet and begin an exercise program. It is important to have a schedule so you are able to implement the right activities and food at the right time.
Obesity is a serious health problem in our society with many serious health and financial implications. Lap band weight loss surgery is an effective and sustainable method of losing the excess weight and improving your life. Because it is a medical procedure, it is important to properly prepare to ensure the surgery and weight loss is a success.