It’s the day of your gastric sleeve surgery. You’re probably feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. Here’s what you need to do to make sure everything goes smoothly.
First, follow your pre-op instructions. This means no eating or drinking after midnight the night before. You’ll also need to take a shower using the antibacterial soap provided by your surgeon.
Second, arrive at the hospital or surgical center on time. Check in with the front desk and then head to the pre-op area where you’ll be asked to change into a gown.
Third, your surgeon will come in to see you and go over the final details of the procedure. Once you’re all set, you’ll be taken into the operating room where you’ll be given anesthesia.
If you’re scheduled to have gastric sleeve surgery, congratulations! This decision is life-changing and will lead to better health for years to come. But before you can enjoy the benefits of surgery, you need to do your part to prepare for the pre-op process.
Here are a few tips:
1. Get your paperwork in order. Make sure you have everything the hospital or surgery center needs, including insurance information, medical records and any necessary imaging studies.
2. Follow your surgeon’s pre-op instructions. You’ll likely be asked to stop eating or drinking a certain number of hours before surgery, so plan accordingly.
3. Arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery. You won’t be able to drive yourself because of the anesthesia used during the procedure.
4. Get your home ready for post-op recovery.
Gastric Sleeve surgery, also called Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy, is a weight-loss surgery that removes a large portion of the stomach, leaving a small sleeve or tube. The surgery is performed laparoscopically, meaning a thin, lighted tube is inserted through several small incisions in the abdomen.
The surgeon will first create several small incisions in the abdomen and then insert the laparoscope. Once the laparoscope is in place, the surgeon will remove a large portion of the stomach. The remaining part of the stomach will be shaped into a small sleeve or tube.
The gastric sleeve surgery usually takes about one to two hours to complete. Recovery time is typically one to two weeks. Most people are able to return to their normal activities within four to six weeks.
If you’re having gastric sleeve surgery, also called vertical sleeve gastrectomy, you’ll likely spend one to two nights in the hospital. You’ll be given clear liquids to drink on the day of your surgery and will gradually advance to solid foods as tolerated. Most people are able to return to their normal diet within four to six weeks.
In the meantime, there are a few things you can do to help your recovery:
1. Get plenty of rest. You’ll need to take it easy for at least the first week after surgery. Avoid strenuous activities, such as exercising, lifting heavy objects or carrying groceries up stairs.
2. Drink lots of fluids. It’s important to stay hydrated after surgery. Sip small amounts of water or other clear liquids often throughout the day.