Back in 2003 before going under the knife for my gastric bypass, I believed obesity surgery was supposed to fix the flaws which make it tough for me to look in the mirror. Losing weight, whether organically or surgically, is after all an excellent way to boost our confidence and feel like an attractive person again. And once my surgery date was scheduled, I felt it was up to my bariatric surgeon to do his thing and make me skinny. And my life would get so much better.
But while our medical professionals have a huge role to play, we aren’t exempt from the responsibility of things. As the patient, we need to be ready emotionally, mentally and physically before going to the operating theater. Here are three ways to help that happen:
Marriage Counseling before Obesity Surgery
The recovery process after obesity surgery is a long, hard journey, and it’s important to have someone by your side. Although it’s not nice to think about, obesity surgery can tear people apart and divorce is not uncommon. A divorce attorney often deals with couples whose differences stem from a lack of communication. Whether it’s the cost of the surgery or the unanticipated changes to the relationship, the pressure it can put on the family can be difficult to manage. That is why it’s vital you communicate with your partner. And a marriage counselor can be a tremendous help to ensure your spouse will be there to support you and you will be attentive to your spouse’s feeling regarding the changes involved with obesity surgery.
Change Your Diet before Obesity Surgery
By eating a healthy diet at least six weeks before your obesity surgery, you will reduce the risk of infection and improve the rate of healing. Nutrients which are as important as any other are vitamins A through D, zinc and copper. You should quit smoking and consider eliminating alcohol, too.
Your bariatric surgeon may provide you with some medications, in which cases it’s a good idea to take them as prescribed. But the medications to watch out for are the over-the-counter medications as they aren’t regulated by your doctor. What you might not know is that some of these medications can have harmful side-effects which aren’t helpful during surgery or the recovery process. Aspirin, for example, thins the blood and stops it from clotting. Popping regular medicines, then, might lead to excessive bleeding, bruising and aching. If in doubt, always speak to your surgeon and ask for advice.
Manage Your Expectations for Obesity Surgery Results
One of the least anticipated parts of obesity surgery is dealing with the mental aftermath. You will not look the same, and while many people love their slimmer bodies for others it can be tough to come to terms with mentally after decades or even a lifetime of obesity. Again this is where counseling before obesity surgery can be very beneficial. The thing to remember is that it takes time to adjust to your new life. And a good therapist will help you to prepare mentally and to have patience in navigating all of the many changes that will come.
The place to begin is with your doctor and speak to her/him openly. This article may help: Talking to Your Doctor about Obesity Surgery.
Living larger than ever,
My Bariatric Life
