Pre-Op with PCP, Nutritionist, Hospital and Surgeon

On Monday (3 weeks pre-op), I had my Pre-Op appointment with my PCP.  I was recovering from a minor cold, but she expressed no concern.  She checked my vitals (BP, HR and Temp) and also conducted an EKG.  My PCP was EXTREMELY thorough with my medical history to ensure that I was clear for surgery and that my surgical team had the best possible information to ensure my safety before, during and after my VSG.

On Tuesday, I had my Pre-Op appointment with my Nutritionist.  I have been seeing her since May, so we had already discussed the aspects of my nutrition and activity post surgery.  We went over best practices and my vitamin (all liquid) schedule post surgery.  It was a relatively productive appointment and scheduled my post-op nutrition appointment for 4 weeks post surgery.

On Thursday, I had my Pre-Op appointment at El Camino Hospital.  This was a two hour appointment.  It included submitting my admission papers (saves time the day of my surgery) and received information regarding an Advanced Healthcare Directive.  Once all the boring paperwork was complete we went through the check-in process for the day of surgery, discussed expectations post surgery (peeing, walking and drinking fluids).  It was very comforting to go through the steps before and after surgery.  I was surprised to learn that the procedure is only 60-90 minutes.  Then 90-120 minutes in recovery and an overnight stay in a private room.  

Today, I received my pre-op packet from Dr. Khalil.  It included pre and post op instructions and a special bar of soap to ensure that the surgical area and areas surrounding are extremely clean.  

I have to check into the hospital at 11:30a on Monday, Oct. 12.  Surgery is scheduled for 1:30p.  

I have scheduled a massage for the morning of my surgery to relax my body and muscles before heading to the hospital.  

I had my pre-op with Dr. Khalil 13 days before surgery.  He was VERY please with my weight loss thus far (17.1 lbs).  We discussed incision placement - 5 in total.  One at the apex of the bottom of the ribcage and then two on each side below the ribs.  I have stayed well educated regarding my surgery - during and after.

And so the count down begins ....