pre-op diet-- what is purpose of full liquid diet?

[GUNPHRIES]

anyone? is it really all that important? if so, why????

[phddivanina]

It is actually very important as it shrinks your liver and other digestive organs so the surgeons can successfully complete the surgery without the risk of injuring other vital organs. Good luck!!! It's only temporarily and you'll be glad you sacrificed momentarily for a lifetime of happiness!!

[BiggieSmalls]

You should definitely do it, but imho it's not necessary to do two weeks unless you are extremely obese (disclaimer: I am not a doctor)... I did four days of shakes and three of liquid. It shrinks the liver and gets your body used to less food. It's a good idea to get started on this whole thing a little bit early.

[cherrob]

I have wondered the same because I started the process a while back and have had to change physicians due to insurance reasons and one told me that he only did the pre-op diet when someone is really obese, say 500 pounds or so, but the first physican requires an extensive pre-op diet. The physician that does not require the pre-op diet just ask me to lose 5-10 pounds and not to eat like it is my last day on earth right before surgery.

[Carlayavonne]

My doctor requires a 2 week pre-op diet no matter the size of the patient... I know it's going to be hard, but I don't want to chance, getting all the way to the operating table and have the surgeon say "Nope", because I didn't do my part. I highly doubt that would happen, but why chance it

[tcbtom]

My surgeon didn't require a pre-op diet. The only thing I had to do was clear liquids the day before surgey. They were actually surprised at my last appointment before surgery that I had lost weight, the nurse said most patients there gain weight.

[netbigfela]

i dont know why ya'll started all this pro-op diet stuff cause i just started mine today.I was told 10 days before surgery
but ive read in these forums that it was best to start early as possible

[Karen1]

Some doctors required two weeks of liquids to help shrink the liver.

[Karen1]

But other doctors suggest having 3 day clear liquids and 2 shots of phospho soda the night before surgery

[jnaed]

Hi Jason! I'm from Iowa also and my sister and her daughter both had their surgeries done by Dr Eibes. They did great! Good luck!

[GUNPHRIES]

thanks for all the responses folks. had surgery today. tired and sore but doing well.

[~Fawn]

Congrats! Keep us updated on how your doing! Positive energy will be sent to you...

[nurse89]

Its necessary in that it shrinks your liver to avoid nicks as others have said. But my surgeon told me previously that is also good to get into a habit of a reduced, controlled intake. If you can follow the pre-op diet, then you're more likely to follow post-op and maintenance diets. It's to aid in compliance. Or at least that's how he made it sound.


Oh congrats on your surgery!! Happy healing.