My surgery is set for Oct 22nd and I start my pre-op diet on Tuesday. I have a meeting scheduled with the surgeon on Thursday and I'm wondering what questions I might want to ask him before my surgery. what questions did you ask?

I asked about what his post op pain management plan was. I had a major surgery last year and pain was not managed at all. That's about all I was worried about.

Just think about what will comfort you knowing.

I would ask about his technique/methods for surgery, i.e., what size bougie, does he oversew the staple line, etc. Just ask him to show you how it works. I did this not because I felt like I was a better judge of technique than my surgeon -- he's the expert -- but because I was curious about exactly what was going to be happening inside my body and wanted to be able to picture it. I also asked about how he tests for leaks. I wish I had asked what measures he takes to prevent blood clots. I didn't get a blood clot but I would have been better mentally prepared for some of the hospital procedures (pneumatic booties, regular shots of blood thinners in the tummy) if I had asked that. I asked about his usage of catheters and drains, again, not because I wanted to judge but because I wanted to know what to expect. I asked how often I would see him in the hospital after surgery and what kinds of things he would be looking for to judge my progress and readiness to go home.

All great questions! I see my surgeon next Tuesday! Can't wait!

I would also suggest you ask what after-care and follow-up care they offer. Do they have a support group meeting you can attend, how often will you have follow-op appts, etc.

These are such great suggestions. I see my surgeon on Friday with surgery the 22nd. I am on my pre op now. I did learn that he normally does a 36 boogie.