Prepare for bariatric surgery with this full pre-op checklist—covering nutrition, logistics, and mindset—for a safe procedure and smoother recovery.
Embarking on the bariatric surgery journey with Nashville Bariatrics at The Surgical Clinic™ can be one of the most powerful steps you can take toward reclaiming your health and taking control of your life. Procedures like gastric sleeve or Roux-en-Y gastric bypass offer transformative results—improved health, enhanced mobility, reduction of chronic pain, and renewed confidence.
At Nashville Bariatrics, we know success comes not just from the procedure but from smart, structured preparation that starts weeks—or even months—before the operation. From doctor visits and food plans to emotional readiness and home setup, we guide patients through every stage of their transformation so you are set up for success.
This blog walks you through the essential steps so you can approach surgery feeling empowered, organized, and ready for long-term success. Here is your pre-op checklist, built to support your body and mind as you prepare for one of the most impactful decisions of your life.
Are You a Candidate for Bariatric Surgery?
Bariatric surgery isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay. It’s designed for those who meet specific medical criteria and are ready to commit to lasting lifestyle changes.
You may qualify if:
- Your BMI is 40 or higher, or 35+ with related health concerns like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea
- You’ve made good-faith attempts at supervised weight loss methods (such as diet and exercise) without long-term results
- You’re generally in good physical and mental health
- You’re committed to long-term change
Most programs also include a psychological evaluation, not as a barrier, but to ensure you’re emotionally prepared for the transformation ahead. Request a free consultation to find out if Bariatric Surgery is for you.
Medical Preparations
1. Schedule Your Final Appointments
Your care team may include your primary care provider, surgeon, nutritionist, anesthesiologist, and sometimes a cardiologist or pulmonologist. You may need:
- CBC and liver panels
- X-rays or EKG
- A sleep study (if apnea is suspected)
Tip: Create a digital folder or physical binder for all paperwork, test results, and appointment notes. Having everything in one place saves time and stress.
2. Review All Medications
Tell your team about every medication and supplement you take, even occasional vitamins or natural remedies. You may need to stop:
- NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen)
- Blood thinners
- Herbal supplements like ginkgo, turmeric, or St. John’s Wort
Also ask about acid reducers or diabetes meds, as dosages may change before or after surgery.
3. Complete Required Screenings
A psychological evaluation is often part of your approval process. Don’t stress, this isn’t a “pass or fail.” It’s a chance to explore your motivations, expectations, and relationship with food.
If obstructive sleep apnea is suspected, you may be prescribed a CPAP machine to improve oxygen levels and healing outcomes post-op.
4. Confirm Financial & Insurance Details
Before your surgery date, check in with your insurance provider or financial coordinator. Clarify deductibles, co-pays, hospital fees, and what’s covered under your plan, from lab work to anesthesia. Ask about payment plans if needed, so you’re not surprised by out-of-pocket expenses. You deserve full transparency and peace of mind.
Nutritional Guidelines
1. Begin Your Pre-Op Diet
This isn’t just about weight loss, it’s about surgical safety and preparing your body. A high-protein, low-carb diet 2–4 weeks before surgery reduces liver size, improving visibility and minimizing complications. This is a powerful way to take control of your health with small, intentional steps that not only prepare your body but also support your provider in ensuring a successful surgery.
Sample Day:
- Breakfast: Protein shake
- Lunch: Grilled chicken with steamed broccoli
- Dinner: Baked fish and leafy greens
- Snacks: Greek yogurt or hard-boiled eggs
- Water goal: 64 oz daily
2. Understand the Liquid Diet Phases
After surgery, your stomach needs time to heal. You’ll progress through stages:
- Clear liquids: broths, sugar-free gelatin, water, electrolyte drinks
- Full liquids: protein shakes, almond milk, cream soups (blended)
- Purees: mashed veggies, soft eggs, blended meats
- Soft foods: cooked veggies, lean ground meat
- Regular foods: reintroduced slowly
Ask for a printed schedule or app (like Baritastic) to stay on track.
3. Cut Alcohol, Smoking, and Trigger Foods
Alcohol is off-limits pre- and post-op—both for safety and because it hits harder after surgery. Smoking delays healing and increases risk of ulcers. Even vaping can interfere with oxygen flow. If you’re struggling, ask about cessation support.
Also avoid:
- Carbonated beverages
- Sugary snacks
- Fried foods
- Caffeine in the last few days pre-op
Mental & Emotional Readiness
1. Set Realistic Goals
Bariatric surgery is a powerful tool, but it’s not a cosmetic shortcut—and it’s definitely not a magic fix. While many patients lose over half of their excess weight in the first 12-24 months, the true goal is improved health and long-term well-being, not perfection.
It’s important to go into surgery with grounded, realistic expectations:
- You’ll need to make lifelong changes to your eating habits and daily activity.
- Weight loss will happen gradually, not overnight.
- You may not lose all of your excess weight, but you can still reach a much healthier, more sustainable size.
- If you don’t stay consistent with lifestyle changes, the results may not last.
Remember that plateaus happen, so it’s important to focus on non-scale victories too:
- More energy
- Sleeping better
- Reduced blood pressure
- Walking longer distances without pain
These wins deserve to be tracked and celebrated, especially during slower stretches. Journaling can be a powerful way to stay motivated and reflect on how far you’ve come.
Following your provider’s guidance, building new habits, and staying active and consistent will shape your success, not just on the scale, but in how you feel every day.
2. Join a Support Group or Talk to a Counselor
Bariatric surgery is as much an emotional journey as a physical one. Talking with others who’ve been there offers perspective, accountability, and emotional safety and helps normalize feelings, tackle doubts, and celebrate progress. Whether it’s group therapy (online or in person,) a private therapist, or Facebook communities, support matters.
Journaling prompts:
- “Why am I choosing surgery?”
- “What fears do I have?”
- “What am I most excited for?”
- “What will I say to people who don’t understand?”
- “How will I feel after a successful surgery?”
3. Prepare Your Inner Circle
Tell family and friends what you’ll need from them: support, patience, encouragement. Help them understand that this isn’t just about food, it’s about rewriting old habits and beliefs, and you are committed to do what needs to be done to take control of your body and your life.
Let them know what NOT to say (e.g., “Just one bite won’t hurt,” or “You’re so skinny now!”) and instead how to support your mental health and boundaries.
Logistics & Planning
1. Schedule Time Off & Care Help
Most patients need 1–3 weeks off work. If your job involves physical labor, plan for longer. Arrange help with:
- Childcare
- Meals & Errands
- Pet care
- School drop-offs
Don’t try to power through. Listen to your body and support it like you would a good friend. Recovery takes rest. Give yourself permission to take the time to heal.
2. Set Up Transportation
You’ll need someone to drive you home after surgery. Many clinics also require someone to stay with you for the first 24–48 hours. Make sure your ride knows when and where to pick you up.
3. Pack Your Hospital Bag
Pack light, but intentionally:
- Front-opening shirt
- Lip balm and lotion (it gets dry!)
- Phone + charger
- Insurance cards
- Med list
- CPAP if prescribed
- Optional: a robe, comfy socks, pillow for ride home
Print your post-op food stages and bring a copy with you.
Home Preparation
1. Stock Your Pantry & Freezer
Shopping after surgery isn’t ideal. Stock up on:
- Bone or veggie broth
- Sugar-free popsicles
- Approved protein shakes (Premier, Bariatric Fusion, Isopure)
- Herbal teas (chamomile, ginger)
- Hydration aids like Liquid IV or Ultima
Bonus: portion and freeze protein-rich soups or purées ahead of time; you will thank yourself later.
2. Create a Recovery Station
Set up one comfy area with everything you need:
- Extra pillows
- Blankets
- A lap tray
- Water bottle
- Medications + tracker
- Journal or Kindle
- TV remote or headphones
Keep items at waist height to avoid bending.
3. Track Your Meds & Hydration
Use a pill organizer or app to keep doses straight. Staying hydrated can feel like a full-time job. Use alarms or a hydration tracker to hit your 64 oz daily goal. Dehydration is one of the most common causes of re-admission. Water is your best friend and will aid in a smoother recovery.
What to Expect on the Day of Surgery
The big day will come with nerves, and that’s totally normal. Here’s what it typically looks like:
- Arrival & check-in
Arrive early. You’ll check in, verify ID and insurance, and change into a gown. - Pre-op prep
A nurse will start an IV. You’ll meet the anesthesiologist, surgical team, and have a final consultation with your surgeon. - Surgery time
Most bariatric surgeries last 1–2 hours. You’ll be under general anesthesia. - Post-op recovery
You’ll wake in recovery with some grogginess, possibly nausea. Nurses will monitor pain, hydration, and vitals. - Heading home
Once cleared, your ride can take you home—usually the same day or the next morning, depending on your procedure.
Conclusion: The Strongest Step Is the First One
Preparation doesn’t just ease your recovery—it shapes your entire journey. Every lab result, meal plan, mental check-in, and grocery trip is a step toward success. You’re doing this for you, and we’re honored to be by your side.
At Nashville Bariatrics, we’re here to help you find the best weight loss solution for your unique journey. We offer minimally invasive and robotically assisted procedures, as well as medical weight loss injections tailored to your body type and health goals.
“Dr. Davis is so encouraging and supportive. He made this whole process much easier, with the kindness he showed. If I could give him 10 stars, I would!”
Ready to Begin?
At Nashville Bariatrics, we offer expert care and personalized support before, during, and long after surgery.
Schedule your consultation
Visit us at The Surgical Clinic in Nashville
Call (615) 425‑0550
Let’s prepare together. Your healthiest chapter is about to begin!