liquid diet 2 weeks pre-op

June 13, 2004

im having my band done6/25/04 and im really scared.My doctor told me to go on a liquid 1,000 calorie diet for two weeks .I started it yesterday and by the end of the day i had to eat.So now i put myself on a low low calorie dietinstead.Did everyone have to go liquid for 2 weeks pre-op?

New Hope · June 13, 2004

I didn't have to stay on liquids that many days, but it's hard. But whatever you lose now just puts you ahead of the game. It's supposed to make your surgery more successful, too. You definitely want to give the surgeon every perk you can think of! Best of luck!

Alexandra · June 13, 2004

Hi Barbara,

Not every patient is given orders for a pre-op diet, liquid or otherwise. But it does seem that some patients' doctors feel that surgery will be easier/safer/whatever if a liquid diet is followed for a period prior to surgery. It may help to lessen the fat around the stomach and liver, from what I hear.

I don't think it's a make-or-break situation, though, since so many people are given no pre-op diet at all (myself included). Do your best to stick to the liquid diet, remembering that your doctor recommended it for a reason. It might help if you ask your doctor what the reason is, so you'll know what you're working for.

Good luck!! :(

birdee · June 13, 2004

My doctor recommends the first week do the "slim fast" diet. A Protein Shake not necessarily slim fast and then a weight watchers meal for dinner. The week before do nothing but slim fast or the Protein Drink of your choice up to 5 times a day.

Like Alex said all doctor's are different!

Birdee