Weight Loss Treatment Prior to Bariatric Surgery

One of the most definitive ways to achieve significant weight loss is through bariatric surgery. However, this procedure should ideally be preceded by a committed and scientifically designed weight loss effort in order to achieve optimal outcomes.

Bariatric surgeon Dr. Wiljon Beltre at the Center for Metabolic and Obesity Surgery provides cutting edge surgical procedures to reduce weight and restore a healthy figure. Dr. Beltre provides these procedures to patients in Orlando, Tampa, Maitland, Central Florida, and surrounding locations.

Pre-Surgery Weight Loss Program

The moment a patient is committed to weight loss surgery, they should begin their weight loss journey right away. The first step in this journey prior to bariatric surgery should be to switch to a low-fat, high-protein, well-balanced diet. Dr. Beltre and his team will provide the patient with detailed dietary guidance with a goal to reduce the amount of fat cells in the liver and around the intestines.

An excessively fatty liver has the risk of bleeding when it is moved away from the stomach during surgery. Excess fatty tissue around the intestines can also increase the risk of injury, leaks, or other complications during the surgery. Therefore, following a dedicated and scientific weight loss diet before the surgery will make the surgery safer and easier, involving a shorter recovery.

Dietary Recommendations

• Protein supplements or protein powder
• Whole grains, lean meats or fish, fruits and veggies, yogurt, eggs, oatmeal
• Limit fats, refined carbohydrates, and sugar in diet
• Avoid alcoholic beverages
• Stop OTC herbal supplements

Lifestyle Changes

The patient should start making certain basic lifestyle changes:

• Quit smoking
• Avoid binge eating
• Stop taking carbonated as well as caffeine beverages
• Do not drink with the meals
• Start an exercise regimen in consultation with the physician
• Join a monthly weight loss support group

Leading bariatric surgeon Dr. Beltre receives patients from Orlando, Tampa, Maitland, Central Florida, and nearby areas.

Pre-Surgery Instructions

Two Weeks before Surgery

Begin on a high protein diet, consisting of a low-sweet, low-carb protein shake for breakfast and lunch, followed by lean meat and vegetables for dinner.

One Week before Surgery

Stop taking Coumadin, Plavix, Aspirin, Ibuprofen or other arthritis medications. Convert all time released or extended released medications to non-time released through the physician.

Two Days before Surgery

Be on a clear liquid diet. It is vital to avoid any solid food during the two days leading up the surgery.

Morning or Day of Surgery

The patient must stop taking Metformin or Pradaxa a day prior to the surgery. They should carry a photo ID proof for verification of identity at the hospital. If any medication has been consumed a day before visiting the hospital, the patient should inform the nurse.

After checking in, the patient will have to wear a hospital gown and booties. An IV will be administered in preparation for surgery, and the patient will receive medications that have been ordered by the physician or anesthesiologist. Family members will stay in the Waiting Room as the patient is taken to the operating room.

To find out more about the procedures & treatments performed by Orlando Bariatric Surgeon, Dr. Wiljon Beltre, at The Center for Metabolic and Obesity Surgery Call 321-499-6505 or Click Here to Schedule a Consultation.

Please note: If the weight is regained, conditions could return.