Careful preparation before weight loss surgery plays a vital role in improving surgical outcomes, reducing complications, and setting the stage for long-term success. Gastric sleeve gastrectomy is a leading bariatric procedure known for its effectiveness and minimally invasive approach. Preparing both your body and mind for surgery can make all the difference in your recovery and results.
At Atlanta Bariatrics in Suwanee, GA, our expert bariatric surgeons, Dr. Christopher J. Hart, Director of Bariatrics at Emory Johns Creek Hospital, and Dr. William H. Johnson, Director of Bariatrics at Northside Forsyth Hospital, specialise in gastric sleeve gastrectomy and other effective weight loss procedures. We offer personalized, compassionate support, detailed preparation guidance, and comprehensive care designed to help you successfully lose weight and maintain a healthy weight. Book a consultation today or call us at (770) 232-9252.
Whether you’re just beginning to explore bariatric surgery or are preparing for an upcoming procedure, this guide will help you navigate the essential steps for a smooth, successful experience.
Pre-Surgery Medical Tests and Evaluations
Before any bariatric surgery, a thorough medical evaluation is essential to assess your health status, identify risk factors, and minimize the chance of sleeve gastrectomy complications. At Atlanta Bariatrics, we use a detailed screening process to ensure you’re fully prepared.
What to expect:
- Comprehensive Medical Review: Your surgeon will assess your medical history, including conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, GERD, or sleep apnea.
- Blood Tests & Imaging: You may undergo a metabolic panel, complete blood count, liver and kidney function tests, EKG, and chest X-ray.
- Cardiologist or Pulmonologist Clearance: If you have pre-existing conditions, additional specialist evaluations may be required.
- Preoperative Weight Loss Requirements: Some patients are asked to lose a small amount of weight beforehand to reduce liver size and improve surgical access.
This process helps your care team design a safe, personalized surgical plan that improves both safety and long-term success.
Dietary and Lifestyle Changes Before Surgery
Making intentional changes to your diet and lifestyle is a critical step in preparing for gastric sleeve gastrectomy. At Atlanta Bariatrics, our registered dietitians will guide you through a structured plan designed to improve your health before surgery and support long-term success.
Diet Modifications
Your pre-surgery diet will be personalized based on your BMI and specific health needs. Generally, we recommend following a high-protein, reduced-fat, and low-to-moderate carbohydrate diet, but in some cases, your surgeon may recommend a special liver-shrinking diet to promote liver fat loss, reduce surgical risks, and ensure a safer, more effective procedure.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Building healthier habits before surgery can improve your recovery, reduce the risk of complications, and set the tone for long-term weight management success.
- Quit Smoking: Tobacco can interfere with healing and significantly increase the risk of surgical complications; we’ll help you develop a quit plan if needed.
- Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol affects liver function and may not be compatible with your pre- and post-operative diet.
- Increase Light Physical Activity: Gentle daily movement like walking can improve your fitness, circulation, and overall recovery experience.
- Start Building Healthy Habits Now: Creating a consistent routine before surgery prepares you for long-term changes and a more successful outcome.
Making these adjustments now sets the stage for successful weight loss surgery and lifelong healthy habits.
Psychological Preparation and Support
Preparing your mind is just as important as preparing your body. Bariatric surgery preparation involves lifelong lifestyle changes, and patients who are mentally and emotionally ready tend to have better long-term outcomes.
At Atlanta Bariatrics, we recognise the importance of psychological support and offer a range of resources to guide you through the emotional aspects of your journey:
Psychological Evaluation
Every patient undergoing sleeve gastrectomy at Atlanta Bariatrics completes a pre-operative psychological evaluation. This important step helps assess emotional readiness, uncover any barriers to long-term success, and ensure you fully understand the lifestyle changes required after surgery.
In addition to supporting your well-being, this evaluation is required by most insurance providers and by MBSAQIP (Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program), the national body that sets the highest standards for safe, effective bariatric care.
Our goal is not only to meet those requirements but to ensure you feel confident, supported, and fully prepared—both mentally and physically—for this transformative journey.
Counselling and Support Groups
We encourage patients to participate in ongoing support both before and after surgery. Whether in person or online, support groups offer a space where patients share real experiences, encouragement, and tips for adjusting to post-surgery life. These connections can be incredibly helpful for building confidence and accountability.
Ongoing Education and Pre-Op Classes
We also provide structured education to help you feel informed and confident ahead of surgery. Our team offers classes and resources to set realistic expectations for weight loss, recovery, and long-term nutritional needs.
Psychological preparation ensures you're emotionally equipped to achieve sustained weight loss and maintain a healthier lifestyle.
What to Expect on the Day of Surgery
Knowing what to expect on the day of your sleeve gastrectomy can ease stress and help you feel more confident as you take this important step. At Atlanta Bariatrics, our team is committed to making sure you’re informed and supported through every stage of your procedure.
Before Surgery
You'll arrive at our surgical center in Suwanee, GA, where our team will welcome you and guide you through the check-in process. Before surgery, you’ll meet your surgeon and anesthesiologist, who will review your care plan, explain what to expect, and answer any final questions.
Your vital signs will be taken, and an IV will be started to administer fluids and medications. Once you’re prepped and ready, you’ll be brought to the operating room.
During Surgery
Sleeve gastrectomy is performed using a minimally invasive laparoscopic technique. This involves making a few small incisions in the abdomen through which a camera and surgical instruments are inserted.
The procedure typically lasts around one to two hours. During the surgery, your surgeon removes about 70-80% of the stomach, creating a tube-shaped “sleeve” that limits food intake and helps reduce hunger-related hormones.
After Surgery
Following surgery, you’ll be taken to the recovery area, where our clinical team will monitor your vital signs as you wake up from anesthesia. Most patients stay in the hospital for one night, although some may be discharged within 24 hours, depending on how they’re feeling. You’ll be encouraged to start walking within a few hours of surgery to support circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots.
You’ll begin a clear liquid diet under guidance from our bariatric dietitians. Before discharge, you’ll receive full instructions for the post-op diet phases, activity restrictions, medication management, and follow-up appointments.
From pre-op to post-op and beyond, Atlanta Bariatrics is here to support you with expert care, education, and ongoing resources throughout your weight loss journey.
Prepare Confidently with Atlanta Bariatrics
Preparing thoroughly for your sleeve gastrectomy greatly influences your surgery's success and your long-term weight loss journey. At Atlanta Bariatrics, our comprehensive preparation process, expert surgical team, dietitian-led dietary guidance, and ongoing psychological support ensure you're fully equipped to achieve lasting results.
Your healthier future begins at Atlanta Bariatrics. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward successful sleeve gastrectomy preparation and transformative weight loss results.
