Pre-Op Information

Packing for the Hospital Stay

Chapstick - very important as you are sure to have dry lips from lack of liquids following surgery

Robe (front closing, not over the head so it doesn't mess with your I.V.)

Slippers and socks as your feet may get cold

Baggy outfit without a binding waistband to wear home

Loose fitting underwear (women may want to wear a bra w/o underwire or none at all as it may put pressure on your incision)

Pillows - you may want to bring at least one from home to put across your tummy for the ride home. Be sure to put colorful cases on them so staff know they are yours.

Tongs (yes the salad kind) to hold toilet paper when wiping your tooshie immediately following surgery. This is of course if you don't have anyone to help you. You want to make sure to not put any pressure on your staples or stitches so that they can properly heal.

Baby wipes (it's nice to have vs. harsh toilet paper and makes for more sanitary cleansing)

For ladies bring some sanitary napkins or tampons. Many women get their period even if they have had it recently or haven't been regular. The trauma of surgery may bring this on.

Small portable fan. The room could be hot or you may feel unusually hot. The hospital rooms are not normally equipped with fans.

Blanket to put over your sheets in case you get too cold.

Entertainment - a walkman / MP3 player to help drown out hospital noise in your room when sleeping. You might also want some reading material for if you get bored with the television or want to avoid food commercials.

Toothbrush, toothpaste, lotion, deodorant, soap, shampoo, conditioner, and brush

Calling card and phone book so you can call friends and family

Camera and film to catch those Kodak moments!

Write Down Your Measurements

Another great way to track your progression is to write down your measurements in inches from the days before your surgery and throughout your weight loss following surgery.

Using a simple chart like the one below can help keep you motivated. Remember, that even when the scales do not reflect weight loss, you may be losing inches! Every 1-2 months, retake those measurements so you can see a more accurate reflection of the "new you".

Taking Before & After Pictures

One of the most encouraging things you can do for yourself is to document your weight loss surgery journey through photographs. People who see your 'before' pictures are astounded at the difference in not just your body size, but in how even your facial appearance has changed.

Having before, during, and after pictures of the weight loss progression are a great way to help your mind to catch up to your body. For months the weight seemed to just melt away, but every time you look in the mirror it may be difficult for you not to continue to see that "fat girl or guy" staring back even though you're wearing much smaller clothing sizes. Through taking pictures, you will eventually see yourself more accurately than ever before. They can really help along the way towards realizing the "new you".