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6 General Tips Before Surgery

The journey is the reward, you decide where it begins.

Embarking on the journey of bariatric surgery is a transformative decision, one that can pave the way for improved health, vitality, and overall quality of life. However, as with any major medical procedure, preparation is essential. This is not just about physical readiness; it’s about mental and emotional preparedness, setting realistic expectations, and arming oneself with knowledge and support. Below are six critical steps to guide you through this transformative journey.

1. EDUCATING YOURSELF ON THE BARIATRIC ENTRY PROCESS:

  • Speak to our amazing Bariatric Co-Ordinator Denise Strydom for an appointment.
  • Tel: 033 329 5764
  • You can start with seeing the Surgeon, Dr Van Niekerk, or our Endocrinologist, Dr Andrew Van Der Walt.
  • Join our Support Group on WhatsApp, Denise will add you.

2. SETTING REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS:

  • Make sure one has realistic expectations about the surgery’s outcomes. Bariatric Surgery is non-cosmetic, it is rather a tool to aid in weight loss, but it requires on-going implementation of lifestyle changes for long term success.
  • Write down your expectations, and voice them to the team. We want to support you in them.
  • Have a good timeline for what you want to achieve. In reality, a post bariatric patient has 18 months to reach their goal weight, and then a lifetime to maintain them.

3. ADDRESS YOUR FEARS AND CONCERNS:

  • As a team, we want to create a safe, non-judgmental environment, where one feels heard. We are an holistic team, and one of the psychologists will walk a journey with you, and help to create this safe environment.
  • Let your village of Post Bariatric individuals become your tribe. Joining our support group will motivate, inspire, and also provide kindness on your journey.

4. DISCUSSING LIFESTYLE CHANGES:

  • Talk about the necessary dietary and lifestyle that you will need to make with your Dietitian.
  • Practical implementation of dietary modification changes will be made PRE and POST surgery to assist in achieving your goals.
  • You will also be tracked with a Body Stat machine, which will show you’re your weight loss progress.

5. SUPPORT SYSTEM:

  • We emphasize the importance of a strong support system.
  • It is imperative to have a support throughout the process, this can be from a family member or friend.

6. CELEBRATE NON-SCALE VICTORIES:

  • Celebrate the small ‘non-scale’ victories, such as increased energy, improved mobility, or better sleep quality.
  • Enjoy recreational activities that were previously a bit trickier to perform.
  • Track these improvements to boost your motivation and confidence.