PREPARING FOR WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY
Most people who have weight loss surgery will meet with several specialists before surgery is scheduled. This often includes a dietitian, mental health counselor, a doctor who specializes in care of obese people, and a surgeon who performs weight loss surgery (bariatric surgeon). You may need to work with these providers for several weeks or months before surgery.

●The nutritionist will explain what and how much you will be able to eat after surgery. A good nutritionist can also give you information about how to prepare foods and read food labels to help you keep track of your caloric intake. The nutritionist will also give you a nutrition plan for after surgery to help maintain weight loss.

●The mental health specialist will help you to cope with stress and other factors that can make it harder to lose weight or trigger you to eat. He or she can also help you make behavioral changes that may lead to a healthier lifestyle.

●The medical doctor will determine whether you need other tests, counseling, or treatment before surgery. He or she might also help you begin a medical weight loss program so that you can lose some weight before surgery.

●The bariatric surgeon will meet with you to discuss the surgeries available to treat obesity and the pros and cons of each type of surgery. He or she will also make sure you are a good operative candidate.

●Starting a serious exercise program prior to surgery will help you prepare mentally and physically for surgery, help you reduce weight prior to surgery, and allow you to have a program you might continue after you recover.