Patient responsibilities

Bariatric surgery is a tool in the weight loss and maintenance process. While it is a proven way for the severely obese to lose weight and keep it off, it is not a quick fix or magic cure. The potential patient should clearly understand what the proposed operation involves.

The benefits and risks should be carefully considered before deciding to move forward with the operation. In order to make the surgery work for you, it is vital that you understand your responsibility in its success.

You must:

• Thoroughly review all information about your surgery.
• Recognize limitations of the surgery.
• Adopt a sensible, low-fat, sugar-free diet and maintain it for life.
• Exercise at the recommended activity level.
• Take vitamin supplements for life.
• Quit smoking at least 60 days before surgery.
• Recognize there may be short-term or long-term complications.
• Address personal issues associated with your journey in morbid obesity.
• Follow the advice of your care team.