Bariatric Support Group - Preparing for Weight Loss Surgery

Preparing for bariatric surgery starts well before the day of the operation. For patients planning weight loss surgery in Surat, support group meetings with Dr. Vikram Lotwala are a good place to begin. Meeting people who have already had surgery helps new patients understand the pre-surgery diet, what the hospital stay involves and what to expect in the first few weeks of recovery.

Preparing for bariatric surgery: what to expect 

• Consultation and assessment: Your surgeon checks your BMI, health conditions and past weight loss attempts, and explains which procedure suits you.
• Tests: Blood tests, an ECG, a chest X-ray, an ultrasound and sometimes an endoscopy, plus specialist check-ups if needed.
• Pre-surgery diet: A short low-calorie diet to shrink the liver and make surgery safer.
• Lifestyle changes: Stopping smoking, starting daily walks and practising smaller, slower meals.
• Planning for recovery: Arranging time off work and support at home for the first weeks.

Why meeting operated patients helps 

Hearing from people who have already been through surgery makes preparing for bariatric surgery less stressful. New patients get honest answers about the diet, the hospital stay and recovery, and feel more confident going into surgery.

Book a consultation with Dr. Vikram Lotwala to start preparing for bariatric surgery with expert guidance. Learn more about bariatric surgery at Wings Hospital, Surat.

Dr. Vikram Lotwala
Laparoscopic & Bariatric Surgeon
Wings Hospital, 1st Floor, Abhilasha Apartment, Opp. Trinity Business Park, Off L.P. Savani Road, Adajan, Surat, Gujarat
Phone: +91 99099 66056

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is a special diet needed before bariatric surgery?

A short pre-surgery diet, usually low in calories and carbohydrates, helps shrink the liver. A smaller liver makes laparoscopic surgery safer and easier for the surgeon. Your dietitian will tell you how long to follow it.

Do I need to lose weight before bariatric surgery?

Some patients are asked to lose a small amount of weight before surgery to lower risks and improve recovery. Your surgeon will tell you whether this applies to you.

What tests are done before bariatric surgery?

Common tests include blood tests, an ECG, a chest X-ray, an abdominal ultrasound and sometimes an endoscopy. Depending on your health, you may also need a check-up with a physician, cardiologist or other specialists.

How long is the hospital stay after bariatric surgery?

Most patients stay in hospital for two to three days after laparoscopic bariatric surgery, though this varies with the procedure and recovery. Your surgeon will confirm the plan for you.

Should I stop smoking before bariatric surgery?

Yes. Smoking raises the risk of complications such as poor wound healing, lung problems and ulcers. Stopping several weeks before surgery, and staying off it afterwards, is strongly advised.