Surgery Day: What to Expect
What to bring, what happens at the hospital, and how to prepare for the day of your bariatric surgery.
After your bariatric surgery workup is complete and surgery has been approved, your procedure will be scheduled. Knowing what to expect on surgery day helps reduce anxiety and ensures you arrive prepared. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your surgeon and bariatric team.
Before You Arrive
Your surgical team will review:
- Medication instructions—including which medications to take or hold
- When to stop eating and drinking (NPO instructions)
- Preoperative diet requirements
- Your arrival time and hospital location
- Recovery expectations after surgery
What to Bring
- Photo ID and insurance card
- Medication list (including vitamins and supplements)
- CPAP machine if you use one for sleep apnea
- Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing for discharge
- Glasses, hearing aids, or other personal items you need
- A responsible adult to drive you home after surgery
The Day of Surgery
At the Hospital
- You will check in and complete registration
- Nursing staff will review your medical history and medications
- An IV will be placed for fluids and medications
- You will meet your anesthesia team and surgeon
- Family members will be updated during and after your procedure
After Surgery
- You will be encouraged to walk as soon as it is safe
- Begin drinking small amounts of clear liquids
- Practice deep breathing exercises
- Manage pain with your prescribed medications
- Most patients go home the same day or after an overnight stay