Weight loss surgery can be a life-changing procedure, especially when traditional weight loss techniques fail to yield results. Provided that you follow your doctor’s guidelines, you can lose up to 70% of your excess weight over a period of two years. However, pre-operative preparation is essential both for your success and for your safety during the process, so you need to do some homework before scheduling that appointment.
Important guidelines before undergoing surgery:
1. Do Your Homework: Bariatric surgery sounds like a promising way to lose the excess weight, but it’s by no means an effortless task. It entails drastic lifestyle changes that you must be ready to commit to. Although the process is considered fairly safe, some complications may occur, such as hemorrhages and blood clotting. Find out the dangers you may be up for, and assess whether it’s worth taking the risk.
2. Find the Right Clinic: Finding the right surgeon for your operation is extremely important. After all, you will have to trust your doctor with your life. Feeling comfortable to work with him is also key to your success. Most importantly, you should check his credentials to find out whether you’re dealing with a legitimate, board-certified professional.
3. Figure out the Cost: Weight loss surgery can be quite expensive, and you need to come up with a payment plan beforehand. Figure out the amount of coverage your insurance offers, and consider additional financing options. Don’t forget to add any additional costs that may apply, such as daycare expenses for your kids or transportation costs to and from the clinic.
4. Track Your Calorie Intake: Some clinics may require that you lose a specific amount of weight before scheduling your surgery. This is mostly intended to minimize risks during surgery, and to test your level of commitment. However, adjusting your eating habits early on will help you get a head start on your post-operative life. Adding short bursts of exercise will further improve your physical condition.
5. Quit Unhealthy Habits: If you smoke, drink alcohol, or consume calorie-rich foods on a regular basis, you may be putting yourself at greater risk of complications during the surgery. To minimize this risk, quit smoking, replace alcoholic beverages and sodas with water and natural juices, and adopt a healthier lifestyle.
6. Seek Help: Undergoing weight loss surgery is a complicated process that can put strain on your psychological and emotional health. You don’t have to go through this alone, though. Get a dietician to help you sort your eating habits out, and seek emotional support from your friends and family. If you’re too worried about your post-operative future, you can consult a psychologist who will teach you how to manage your emotions and deal with this huge change in your life.
When all other weight loss methods fail, bariatric surgery in Austin Texas can help you get your weight under control. Being well-prepared for the procedure will keep you safe and healthy. It will also ensure that you achieve optimal, long-lasting results from your effort.
