The Assessment Process
You will be required to participate in an assessment process to determine if surgery is the right option. It is important to take time to work on lifestyle changes and determine if surgery is the correct step for you. Please note we are a surgical program and if at any point you decide surgery is not best for you, please let us know so we can discuss non-surgical options.
The assessment process consists of several appointments with our multi-disciplinary team at the Richmond Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Program approximately every 4 to 6 weeks. You are encouraged to ask questions and find out as much about surgery as possible.
Our team is group of health-care professionals dedicated to educate you and help you adopt lifestyle changes and coping strategies – both before and after surgery. The team consists of surgeons, dietitians, nurses, social worker, nursing unit clerk, respirologist, internists, bariatrician, endocrinologist, and psychiatrists. They are an excellent tool and source of support – take the opportunity to have them help you achieve your health and weight loss goals!
Some of the key changes that we will expect are:
- If you smoke, quit
- Keep a food and activity record daily – this is the single most important action that you can take for long term success following surgery
- Track your activity (timed, step counter, FitBit, etc.) to assess how active you are
- Make time for at least 30 minutes of sustained activity each day
- Eat breakfast each day. Do not skip meals
- Base your daily food choices on foods that are whole grains, fruit and vegetables and lean protein choices
- Limit your intake of high calorie snacks and junk food
- Use food labels to help make healthier choices
- Choose calorie free beverages (other than milk)
- Eliminate caffeinated and carbonated beverages
- Identify triggers and barriers to healthy eating and active living, and make a plan for change
You must bring your food and activity record to each appointment.