What to Expect Before & After Bariatric Surgery
At Swedish, the actual weight-loss surgery is only one component of a successful weight-loss program, which we measure not by pounds lost, but by quality of life improvements. Below please find a brief overview of what you can expect before and after surgery. In depth information is provided to each patient throughout the program.
Before Bariatric Surgery
- Attend a free bariatric seminar at Swedish
- Undergo psychological evaluation
- Attend a nutrition class with our Registered Dietician: Kelly Elliot at Bariatric Nutrition Resources
- Start developing an exercise program, tailored to your specific needs
- Attend a bariatric pre-op class at Swedish
After Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery is major surgery. Because most of the weight-loss surgeries at Swedish Medical Center are laparoscopic (minimally invasive), healing times are often minimal. Most patients who undergo the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass procedure take off about two weeks for a desk job and up to four weeks for a manual labor position. Adjustable gastric band patients have gone back to work in as few as four days, but some take up to two weeks off. Remember, each patient is different, so your recovery time may be more or less than the average. In addition, you can expect your treatment plan following surgery to include:
- Reduction in the amount of food you can eat
- Regular daily exercise
- Attend monthly bariatric patient support groups
- Regular follow up visits with your bariatric surgeon
