By Sandi Henderson

Now that you have made a decision to have lap band surgery here are some suggestions to get you started:

1. Start documenting your journey
   Use a three ring binder. Take a before picture, full body, head to toe. Write down important phone numbers. You will be happy to have a picture to refer to six months or two years down the road to remind yourself how far you have come.


2. You've decided to have surgery, now who are you going to tell?
   This is a very personal decision and should be carefully considered. Weight loss surgery is still not understood by many people. Once you tell someone you are having lap band surgery, you can't take it back.


3. Keep your doctor's instructions in reach
   You will be referring to these instructions frequently in the weeks before and immediately after surgery. Having them handy is important.


4. Useful things to bring with you the day of surgery that may not be on your doctor's list
   Your doctor's list will include ID, insurance card, someone to drive you home. We add bring a pillow, your MP3 player for distraction, and please wear loose, comfortable clothes.


5. Prepare your home for your first days after surgery
   Have someone available to check in on, or look after, you the first few days after your weight loss surgery. Take into consideration where you want to spend your time for your first few days home if you have multiple levels in your home.


6. Stock up on things you will need for your first weeks after surgery
   Have protein drinks, soups, sugar free popsicles, juices, and, that's right, more protein drinks. Be sure to have taste tested your protein drinks before surgery.


7. Learn from others who have bands and who have been successful
   Use your doctor's support groups and find a mentor. This journey can be more successful and more fun when you share it with others who are also on the journey.

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