Working On The Essentials...

[Sannah 258]

Hi All!

I hope your journey is going smoothly.

I have been reading on VST for a while now. I was starting to feel concerned about the pre op diet, but I am starting to wonder if I actually have anything to worry about?

This week I started my pre op appointments. Welcome group, NUT and psychologist. I have to say I am a bit surprized about all of these appointments.

Psychologist- This was a weird conversation and we did NOT talk too much about weight loss. We talked about almost all major aspects of my life: marriage, parenting, my family history, doctoral program and goals I have. The psychologist told me about his life a little. When I left I had a list of goals that the psychologist made for me, which were to say the least, were weird and really not related to what we talked about. Did you have this experience?

Nut- I LOVE my NUT, she is the best. She is a vegetarian as well, which is nice. I need to loose 20lbs prior to surgery, but I have three months to do so. So, we talked about small changes, like pre measuring 1oz servings of cheese (I LOVE CHEESE) and eating about 1500-1800 calories. We also talked about not making changes until I feel its time for me. Everything really seems very centered on what I feel is right for me. The NUT gave me samples of Protein Shakes, and said if I wanted I could replace one meal a day, but that was up to me. Why are so many having these intense pre op diets? Am I missing something? Maybe I have a more intense version coming up?

So far I am very pleased with the clinic and the entire team. Next week I see the PT, NP and have the metabolic test.

I would love to hear what your experience with your pre op appointments has been like!! Thanks for reading and sharing!

Wishing You Wellness,

Sannah

[kimberlee1235 52]

When I went to see the psychologist that was required by my doctor, it was someone that worked closely with his patients on a regular basis for pre-WLS. The conversation wasn't lengthy, he asked me about myself...and I told him. And then he gave me a 165 question quiz that basically tells him/the surgeon what kind of patient I will be...basically am I fit emotionally and psychologically to have such a life altering surgery, and will I follow post-op instructions, etc. Other than that, he didn't delve into other aspects of my personal life too much. As far as the pre-op diet, I haven't started mine yet..I'm seeing my surgeon on Thursday and hopefilly I will get my surgery date (hoping for week of the 20th this month!) and will start it soon. However, the plan your NUT made you sounds maybe like a pre-pre-op diet? If that makes sense? lol. They want you to get down 20lbs before you're okay to have surgery, but they're just altering the way you intake your calories...It seems like most doctors ACTUAL like "2 weeks before surgery" preop diet is really strict and consists of liquids only, (i know some doctors are probably different..) anyway, looks like they're just wanting to get you down to a healthier bracket of weight before they do surgery on you. you probably do have another more intense pre-op diet that will start a couple week before your surgery. Good luck!!

[Sannah 258]

Hi!!

Very different experiences we are having. The psychologist is part of the weight loss surgery team. I filled out a 370 question form and then had a very dynamic conversation about all aspects of my life.

The surgeon said to loose 15-20 lbs for surgery. I am cool with the day before being all liquids. I can't imagine if I met the 20 lbs requirement why I would need to do a crazy pre op diet. It does not make sense to do a pre pre op and pre op. The nut said a lot of people get nervous about having to loose this weight prior to surgery. Time will tell!! Sounds like I should prepare myself either way!!

Thank you replying!!

Have a good Sunday!! Sannah

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[Sannah 258]

I hope you Thursday appointment goes well!! Sounds like surgery is on the horizon!!! How exciting!!

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[kimberlee1235 52]

The reason they do the *however long* preop diet (mine is 2 weeks) is to shrink the liver prior to surgery, usually.