You'll probably have some pre-op appointments you have to go to. Blood work to get done, maybe an EKG, chest x-ray, stuff like that. They'll let you know what and when and where.
Take some time to clean your house and do your shopping. If you're the cook in your household, think about freezing some meals for the early post-op days. You won't be eating much then, but the rest of the family will want to eat.
Get a list of foods you'll be allowed from your dietician. Usually you'll be on liquids for anywhere from a few days to a week or two. Then you'll be allowed soft mushy stuff. Some good foods to have on hand for the liquid stage include broth, sugar free jello, and sugar free popsicles. For the soft mushy stage, think about yogurt, sugar free pudding, cream of wheat (I was told oatmeal was too rough), cream soups, fat free refried beans, ricotta cheese (great nuked with a little marinara sauce on top), and cottage cheese. Stock up.
You're probably going to want to use some protein shakes to make sure you get enough protein in the beginning. You can buy samples of different shakes at vitalady.com. Be aware, though, that your tastes may change post-op, so what you like now, you may not like then.
Exercise is going to be important post-op, so if you don't already exercise, start now. Get in the habit now and it will be easier after surgery.
Finally, I suggest everyone make a Living Will. In the extremely unlikely event that something terrible happens, it's good to be prepared.
Kelly
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RNY 11/4/08
surgery/current/goal
270/147/130
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