How do I prepare for surgery?

Friday, 20 January 2012 09:46

Patients often wonder if there is anything they need to purchase or prepare before undergoing surgery. While the Lap-Band is a simple laparoscopic procedure, and recovery does not require any special equipment or materials, making some preparations in your kitchen and other areas of your home can help you get through the challenging first few weeks after surgery.

Food

Naturally, you'll want to have approved food items on hand following surgery so that you are equipped to follow your post-op diet ... and also so you don't have to worry about making any grocery store runs. Make sure that you have items on hand for the clear liquids stage, including clear protein drinks, broths, and sugar-free drink mixes. For the full liquid stage, you can progress to foods such as creamy soups, pureed vegetable soups, protein shakes and yogurt smoothies. Check with your doctor to see what is allowed during this stage; some may permit a wider variety of foods as long as they are blended and watered down.

Kitchen tools

Investing in a few small kitchen appliances before your surgery will help with meal preparation during your various diet stages. A blender is a must for making protein shakes and smoothies. A food processor will allow you to make your own foods during the mushy stage; basic food processors start as low as $14, but investing in one with more blades and options will give you more freedom to experiment with different foods and recipes, even beyond the mushy stage. A stick or immersion blender is also great for making your own pureed soups right in the pot. To get more veggies into your diet and ensure adequate vitamin intake, you may also want to invest in a juicer. Just make sure to track any calories from juicing, and don't exceed your doctor or nutritionist's recommendations for total calorie consumption.

Supplies for hobbies and interests

Consider if there is anything you can buy now that will help you pursue a non-food-related hobby after your surgery. Are there any activities you are interested in starting or that you could take to another level? If you like making things with your hands, stock up on supplies for knitting, crocheting, scrapbooking, sewing, or making jewelry. Look into classes for something that interests you or sign up for piano lessons - anything you can throw your energy into. If your current hobbies encourage snacking - for example, if you're used to mindlessly munching while you read or watch movies - you may need to look for other ways to occupy your time. Look for ways that you can help out in your community or tackle some projects you have been putting off.