I would like to know how the pre-op diet affected anyone's surgery. Does it really make a difference 3 days clear, low carb, no carb? I am day four and hate the Medafast products from my Dr. Would it make a difference if I switched shake brands or diets? Did anyone cheat and have a problem?

I was told the purpose was to shrink a potentially fatty liver so that the sleeve surgery would go through without a glitch. The NUT & surgical nurse told us that the surgery could be stopped if the liver is too fatty. I didn't want to risk it so I stayed pretty true to the diet.

How long is your pre-op diet?

Are you required to lose a specific amount?

My preop plan consisted of 3-4 Protein shakes and Clear liquids for 10 days. I already knew i had a fatty liver from an ultrasound when i had my gallbladder removed 7 months ago so i made sure i stuck to the plan. After surgery, i asked my surgeon how my liver looked and he said PERFECT! So, the preop diet works plus you lose weight which is an added bonus:)

Have you tried mixing sugar free Jello (powder) with your shakes? It really helped me during this phase.

Edited June 26, 201511 yr by shani22404

I agree with sticking to the pre-op diet but I am sure you can use any high protein, low-fat shake. I think Premier makes one of the best. 30 g Protein and only 140 calories. Good luck!

I think you should go by what your surgeon says. I specifically asked my surgeon if I could use other products, such as Oh Yeah shakes, Pure Protein shakes, etc., he said "you must use the Bariatric Advantage shakes". So I did.

But I agree, mix in some SF FF Jello pudding mix in with the shake to change up the taste

@shani22404...I am on day 11 of my 14 day liquid diet and I have been drinking my protein shakes but it's a struggle...the chocolate I have is so gross. Even the smell of it makes me gag. I bought this one with my surgeons recommendation (bariatric fusion chocolate) but just reading your post about adding sugar free pudding or jello mix to my protein shake might do the trick. Thank you! ????

I bought the products from my surgeon's clinic. I had to do a two week liquid diet: 4 shakes a day and Water. I hated their shakes so I switched to the Premier shakes. Doc said my liver looked great for surgery. I'd always advise speaking with your dietician/nutritionist first but the point of the surgery is to drop quick weight to shrink your liver. So I can't see why switching products would hurt if you are looking to just switch to a different shake. I was allowed to use any shake as long as it met certain requirements: under 200 calories, 25+ grams of Protein and low sugars and carbs. But again - it's always good to have the conversation with you doc or dietician. I lost 26lbs during this time period so it was well worth it.