Why is Pre-Bariatric Surgery Preparation Important?
Although bariatric surgery is a highly effective method for combating obesity, the process is not limited to surgery alone. Preparations made before surgery are critical to the success of the operation and the post-operative recovery process. Lifestyle changes made before surgery reduce the risk of complications and help the individual adapt to the process physically and psychologically.
The Role of Optimizing Physical Health Before Surgery
Losing weight before surgery is important, especially for reducing liver size and facilitating the surgery. Additionally, controlling metabolic values such as blood sugar and blood pressure directly affects wound healing and surgical success.
Reducing the Risk of Possible Complications
Habits such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and quitting smoking and alcohol reduce the risk of postoperative problems such as infection and respiratory complications.
What Should Your Pre-Surgery Nutrition Plan Look Like?
Special diets followed during the pre-surgery period help prepare the stomach and liver. During this process, a personalized plan should be developed in consultation with a nutritionist.
What is a Liver-Reducing Diet, and Why is it Used?
A liver-reducing diet makes it easier to see the surgical area, especially in individuals with fatty liver disease. This diet is based on a nutrition model that is low in carbohydrates and fat and high in protein.
Liquid Diet Recommendations and Sample Daily Menu
A liquid diet is started 5-10 days before surgery. During this period, water, soup, and protein-enriched liquids are preferred.
Sample Daily Menu:
- Breakfast: Unsweetened protein milk
- Snack: Yogurt/buttermilk/kefir
- Lunch: Soup (blended)
- Dinner: Protein supplement + herbal tea
Mental and Emotional Preparation: Psychological Support Process
The surgical process requires not only physical but also mental and emotional preparation. It is important to seek support to cope with stress, anxiety, and eating disorders.
Stress and Anxiety Management Before Surgery
Stress can be reduced through relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises. Planning daily routines and gathering information also reduces anxiety.
Advantages of Getting Professional Support
Support from a psychologist or bariatric counselor helps change eating behaviors, maintain motivation, and improve post-surgery compliance.
Adapt Your Daily Habits to Surgery
You may need to change some of your habits before bariatric surgery. Sleep, exercise, and stress management are particularly important in this regard.
Establishing a Sleep Routine
Seven to eight hours of uninterrupted sleep at night strengthens the immune system and balances hormones. This facilitates recovery after surgery.
Preparing the Body with Light Exercise
Walking, swimming, or light stretching exercises strengthen the muscles and respiratory system, preparing the body for the postoperative period.
The Impact of Creating a Social Support Network on Surgical Success
Social support helps individuals cope with the process more easily, both emotionally and practically.
How to Get Support from Family and Friends
Involving your loved ones in the process can help with meal preparation, motivational support, or accompanying you during hospital visits.
Why Are Bariatric Support Groups Important?
Support groups reduce feelings of loneliness and provide motivation by connecting individuals who share similar experiences.
Medication Use and Supplements: What Should You Pay Attention To?
You should discuss in detail with your doctor about medications used before surgery and supplements that need to be taken.
Medications to Discontinue Before Surgery
Blood thinners, certain diabetes medications, and herbal supplements should be discontinued before surgery. Your surgeon and anesthesiology team should be informed about this.
Monitoring Vitamin and Mineral Levels
Vitamin levels such as vitamin D, iron, and B12 should be tested before surgery and any deficiencies should be corrected.
Water Consumption and Hydration: Tips for Supporting the Body
Drinking enough water before surgery supports kidney function and maintains metabolic balance.
How Can You Meet Your Daily Water Needs?
You should aim to drink 1.5–2.5 liters of water per day; adding natural flavors such as lemon or mint to water can encourage consumption.
Caffeine, Carbonated Beverages, and Fluid Restrictions
Caffeine and carbonated beverages can irritate the stomach. These should be avoided, and fluid consumption throughout the day should be planned between meals rather than with meals.
What Should Be in Your Hospital Bag for Surgery Day?
You can make the process easier by making special preparations for surgery day.
Required Documents and Reports
Documents such as your ID, health insurance, test results, doctor’s recommendations, and surgery consent form must be prepared in full.
Comfortable Clothing and Personal Care Products
Comfortable clothing with buttons/zippers, slippers, toothbrush, lip balm, hygiene products, and other items should be included in the bag.
7-Day Pre-Surgery Checklist
A week before the surgery, a list of daily tasks should be prepared and followed step by step.
Daily To-Do List
- Day 1: Full liquid diet, start fasting 12 hours in advance
- Day 2: Check necessary documents
- Day 3: Prepare hospital bag
- Day 4: Psychological support consultation
- Day 5: Review of all medications
- Day 6: Light exercise and plenty of water consumption
- Day 7: Transition plan to liquid diet with a nutritionist
Diet, Medication, and Preparation Schedule
During this final week, the liquid diet plan provided should be followed carefully, medications should be taken regularly, and all preparations should be reviewed.
