Preparing for Bariatric & Weight-loss Surgery

Start with a Weight-Loss Seminar

Begin your weight-loss journey by attending a free seminar held the first and third Tuesday evenings of each month at AnMed.

You’ll learn how bariatric surgery can improve your well-being and find out if you’re an eligible candidate. You’ll also get to meet a surgeon, hear about your procedure options and explore the risks and benefits of surgery. 

Bring a loved one who will support you throughout your journey, so this person understands what to expect and can take good care of you during recovery. 

Appointment with Your Surgeon

Meet one-on-one with a caring bariatric surgeon who takes time to understand your concerns, health history and weight-loss goals. Together, you’ll determine which weight-loss procedure is your best choice and make a personal care plan to help you start preparing for surgery. Ask as many questions as you need to feel confident in your path forward.

Get in Your Best Health 

To make sure you’re well enough for surgery, you’ll need approval from: 

• Your primary care doctor 
• Dietitian who will help you optimize your eating habits and, if required by your insurance company, will offer dietary guidance for three to six months before treatment
• Mental health professional who provides tools for coping with the stress and life changes of surgery and refers you to support groups 

If you have a heart or lung condition, you may also need to see a cardiologist or pulmonologist. These professionals will help reduce your symptoms and improve your strength before surgery, so you recover more easily.  

Lifestyle Changes

Bariatric surgery requires a healthy lifestyle. Several months before surgery, you’ll need to start doing the following:

• Give up nicotine and tobacco 
• Replace high-calorie, low-nutrient foods and drinks with healthy meals and protein shakes  
• Take a multivitamin daily
• Add more physical activity to your routine, starting with low-impact exercises like yoga and walking 

We know change can be challenging. Make it easier by leaning on your care team members, who are experienced in helping people like you start and stick to healthy habits.

Last Steps Before Surgery

After your care team determines you’re healthy enough for treatment, you’ll:

• Set a date for surgery 
• Sign up for a preoperative class [PDF] that covers what to bring to the hospital, what to expect while you’re here and how to prepare for your at-home recovery
• Start a preoperative diet designed to shrink your liver for a short time so the surgeon can operate on your stomach
• Take lab tests to check your health one last time before surgery

How Long Does Preparation Take?

If you’re highly motivated and generally healthy, you could get ready for surgery in as little as six weeks. The process will take longer if your insurance provider requires several months of supervised dieting, or if you need to improve your cardiovascular health before surgery. Reach out to your care team for help completing each step of the journey in a timely way.