How to Get Bariatric Surgery Fast: What You Need to Know

Key Takeaways

• The fastest way to get bariatric surgery is to be proactive by gathering medical records, insurance documentation, and meeting all pre-surgery requirements.
• Choosing an experienced bariatric surgeon and following their pre-surgery guidelines—such as dietary changes and quitting smoking—can help speed up the process and improve outcomes.
• Success after surgery depends on long-term commitment, including regular follow-ups, proper nutrition, and lifestyle adjustments to maintain weight loss and overall health.

The key to getting bariatric surgery fast is to be well-prepared, informed, and proactive.

You first need to determine if you qualify based on medical requirements, including your body mass index (BMI) and any related health conditions. Gathering all necessary medical records, insurance documentation, and preparing physically for surgery can help you move through the process efficiently.

This guide walks you through each of these steps in detail, helping you navigate the process smoothly and get your surgery done as soon as possible. 

Assessing If You Qualify for Bariatric Surgery

The first step is making sure you meet the medical requirements. Different guidelines exist, but here are the most common ones:

• Body mass index (BMI): Most people qualify if their BMI for bariatric surgery is 40 or higher. If your BMI is between 35 and 39.9, you may still be eligible if you have health conditions like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure.
• Previous weight loss attempts: Surgery is usually an option after trying diet, exercise, and medical weight-loss programs without lasting success.
• Psychological readiness: A mental health evaluation helps determine if you’re prepared for the lifestyle changes after surgery. If you’re wondering how to pass a bariatric psych evaluation, it’s crucial to show that you understand the long-term commitment required.

If you meet these criteria, you’re already on the right path. The next step is gathering all the necessary documents to prevent delays.

Gathering the Right Medical Documentation

Having the right paperwork can speed up your approval. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Medical history: Your healthcare provider will want a complete record of your health, including past surgeries, medications, and existing conditions.
• Nutritional assessments: This includes details about your eating habits, previous diets, and any nutritional counseling you’ve had.
• Insurance requirements: If insurance is covering your procedure, they’ll likely ask for documented proof of previous weight-loss attempts and referrals from your healthcare provider.

By gathering this information ahead of time, you can avoid unnecessary back-and-forth with insurance companies and medical providers. 

You will also want to double-check your insurance policy to understand what’s covered and whether there are any additional requirements.

Choosing the Right Bariatric Surgeon

Finding the best surgeon is key to a smooth and successful experience. Here’s how you can make a quick but informed decision:

• Look for experience: Choose a board-certified surgeon who specializes in bariatric procedures.
• Ask the right questions: When you meet with a surgeon, come prepared with questions about recovery time, risks, and expected results. Ask about their experience with your specific procedure.

• Understand your options: There are different types of bariatric surgeries, such as gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and adjustable gastric banding. Your surgeon will help you decide when is bariatric surgery recommended based on your medical history and weight-loss goals.
• Read reviews and get referrals: Check online reviews and ask your primary care healthcare provider or people you trust for recommendations.

Doing your research upfront will help you feel confident in your choice and prevent delays in the process.

Getting Ready Physically for Surgery

There are things you can do to make sure your body is prepared. Some of these steps might even be required before your procedure can be scheduled.

• Lose a small amount of weight: Some surgeons ask for pre-surgery weight loss to shrink the liver and make the operation safer.
• Quit smoking: If you use tobacco, now is the time to stop. Smoking can cause complications and slow healing.
• Start moving more: Gentle exercise, like walking or stretching, can improve your heart health and help with recovery after surgery.
• Follow a pre-surgery diet: Your surgeon may give you a specific meal plan to follow before the procedure. This usually includes high-protein, low-carbohydrate foods to help reduce fat around the liver.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can improve your overall health and make recovery smoother.

Taking care of your body before surgery will make things easier afterward, too. Following your healthcare provider’s instructions will help ensure a successful procedure and quicker healing.

The Importance of Follow-Ups

Your journey doesn’t end after surgery. Regular follow-ups are essential to keep you on track and avoid complications.

• Nutritional check-ins: You’ll need to make sure your body is getting enough vitamins and minerals. Deficiencies can occur after bariatric surgery, so regular monitoring is crucial.
• Weight loss monitoring: Your healthcare provider will track your progress and adjust your plan if needed. Weight loss may vary from person to person, so having a healthcare provider guide you is important.

• Managing any issues: Follow-ups help catch any concerns early, whether they’re physical or emotional. Some people experience challenges such as digestive issues, hair loss, or changes in appetite. Addressing these early can prevent bigger problems down the road.
• Emotional support: Major lifestyle changes can bring emotional challenges. Connecting with a support group or mental health professional can be beneficial.

Staying committed to these appointments will set you up for long-term success. 

What Happens After Surgery?

After the procedure, you’ll go through several phases of recovery and adjustment. Knowing what to expect can make the process easier.

Hospital stay

Most bariatric surgeries require a short hospital stay, typically ranging from one to three days, depending on the type of procedure and your recovery progress. 

Your healthcare provider will monitor your progress, ensure you stay hydrated, and help manage any pain or discomfort. You may also receive instructions on how to move around safely to prevent complications like blood clots.

Diet progression

You’ll start with clear liquids, then gradually move on to pureed foods before slowly reintroducing soft and solid foods over several weeks. 

This process helps your stomach heal and adjust to its new size while preventing complications like nausea or dumping syndrome. It’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s dietary guidelines to ensure proper healing and long-term success.

Lifestyle changes

Portion control, mindful eating, and regular exercise will become part of your daily routine to maintain weight loss and overall health. 

Your dietitian or healthcare provider will provide guidelines on what foods to eat and avoid, helping you develop sustainable eating habits. Incorporating physical activity, even in small amounts, can improve energy levels and support long-term weight management.

Long-term commitment

Bariatric surgery isn’t a quick fix—it’s a tool to help you achieve long-term health, but success depends on your commitment to lasting lifestyle changes. 

Sticking to your plan, attending follow-up appointments, and taking recommended vitamins will help you get the best results. Staying engaged in a support group or working with a bariatric specialist can also help you stay motivated and on track.

Conclusion

Getting bariatric surgery quickly is possible if you prepare ahead of time and take proactive steps to get ready. By ensuring you qualify, gathering your paperwork, choosing the right surgeon, preparing physically, and committing to follow-ups, you can move through the process smoothly. The sooner you take action, the sooner you’ll be on your way to a healthier, happier life.

If you’re ready, start by reaching out to a bariatric specialist today! The journey may seem long, but every step brings you closer to your goal. You’ve got this!

How Bari Life Can Help

Bari Life understands the unique nutritional needs of bariatric patients before and after surgery. Their high-quality bariatric vitamins and meal replacements help you stay on track with your pre-surgery diet and ensure you get the essential nutrients needed for a smooth recovery.

From bariatric protein shakes and bariatric snacks to easy-to-absorb bariatric multivitamins, Bari Life products are designed to support your body through every stage of the journey. Their bariatric vitamins chewable options make it easier for those who prefer a more convenient way to get their daily nutrients.

Since nutrient deficiencies are common after surgery, Bari Life’s specially formulated supplements help you maintain optimal health, prevent complications, and sustain long-term weight loss success. They offer a bariatric multivitamin with iron to help prevent anemia and bariatric calcium chews for maintaining strong bones. If you prefer a liquid option, their liquid bariatric vitamin ensures easy absorption.

Hair loss can be a concern after bariatric surgery, but Bari Life provides bariatric vitamins for hair loss to support healthy hair growth. Additionally, their bariatric probiotic helps maintain gut health, which is crucial for digestion and overall well-being. For those looking for nutritious on-the-go options, bariatric protein bars offer a tasty way to stay on track.

By choosing Bari Life, you’ll have access to trusted products that align with your bariatric surgery requirements. Don’t wait—set yourself up for success with the right nutrition today!

Check out Bari Life’s full range of products to start your journey with confidence.

If you want to learn more, why not check out these articles below: 

• Can You Have Bariatric Surgery If You Have H Pylori?
• How Quickly Can I Get Bariatric Surgery?
• What Can Disqualify You From Bariatric Surgery?
• Am I a Candidate For Bariatric Surgery?
• Is Bariatric Surgery Right For Me?
• What is a Bariatric Patient? 

Resources

Potential Candidates for Weight Loss Surgery. (2020). National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.

Salame, M., et al. (2023). Marginal Ulcers after Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: Etiology, Diagnosis, and Management. J. Clin. Med.

Vieira de Sousa, J.P. et al. (2024). Assessing Nutritional Deficiencies in Bariatric Surgery Patients: A Comparative Study of Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass versus Sleeve Gastrectomy. J. Pers. Med.