Pre-op Instructions for Single Incision Laparoscopic Sleeve (SILS)
While many patients do not realize it, healing begins before a procedure even begins. Pre-op surgical instructions are intended to put you body in an ideal condition to heal. It's important that patients follow all surgical instructions to the letter in order to prevent serious complications and to reduce the severity of side effects.
The team at Tijuana Bariatrics will provide Single Incision Laparoscopic Sleeve (SILS) patients with detailed pre-op and post-op instructions as part of the consultation process. Below are some basics for patients to consider before they head into weight loss surgery.
Avoid Smoking and Tobacco Products
Smoking and the use of tobacco products makes people more prone to infection and can also slow down healing times. Before you undergo SILS, be sure to quit smoking and avoid chewing tobacco. This might be a great excuse to quit for good.
Stay Away from Alcoholic Beverages
Alcohol can have a similar negative impact on healing and recovery. In the lead up to you SILS surgery, refrain from alcoholic beverages. You'll similarly want to go easy on alcohol in the weeks and months after your procedure.
Ween Yourself Off of Caffeine
Many people don't realize this, but caffeine can have a negative impact on your recovery, and it is also something that bariatric surgery patients should try to avoid after their procedure. Try to ween yourself off of caffeine. This will help you get used to avoiding caffeine after your surgery is performed.
Hydration Is Key
It's important that you make regular hydration a habit. Drink water through the day to remain refreshed. This will also help you avoid sodas and other beverages that may not be good for you after surgery.
Stop Taking Certain Medications
Blood thinners and other drugs may affect your ability to heal after surgery. We will provide you with a list of prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications to avoid before your surgery and in the immediate weeks of recovery.
Start Your Food Diary
Food diaries are an important part of monitoring your eating habits. Before you undergo a weight loss surgery procedure, start a diary of the foods you eat and how they make you feel. You'll continue to do this after SILS to develop good eating habits and determine what foods or food combinations to avoid.
Follow Your SILS Pre-op Diet
All patients who undergo bariatric surgery are asked to adhere to a diet that promotes weight loss and wellness leading into surgery. In general, your diet will help boost your protein intake, lose weight, and reduce the size of your liver.
Ask Questions and Voice Your Concerns
Surgery can be stressful, both before and after it is performed. Be sure to ask questions, voice concerns, and bee honest with your feelings heading into SILS. This can put your mind at ease as you make important lifestyle improvements.
Learn More About Single Incision Laparoscopic Sleeve (SILS)
For more information about SILS and whether or not it's the right weight loss surgery for you, be sure to contact our advanced bariatric surgery center today. The team here at our practice will help you achieve your weight loss goals.
