Tufts University Logo Nutrition

Search  GO >

this site tufts.edu people
 
Nutrition Nutrition Nutrition  
 
Nutrition About
Print

Bariatric Support Services

This program will serve all patients who plan to undergo surgery regardless of where surgery will be performed, and is a unique service in the region.

Based on the extensive Tufts experience with bariatric (weight loss) surgery, we are able to offer a program designed to enhance the success of bariatric surgery by intensive pre-operative and post-operative services.

Pre-operative services will include specialized medical evaluations by physicians who specialize in the care of patients undergoing weight-loss surgery, exercise testing and development of individualized pre-operative conditioning programs, nutrition counseling for pre-operative loss, and nutrition education to prepare for after surgery. Pre-operative weight loss is often required to reduce risk of surgical complications, and our program will facilitate pre-surgery weight loss regardless of initial weight and health status.

Lifelong attention to diet and lifestyle is needed to succeed after bariatric surgery, and the center is equipped to provide state-of-the-art long-term care. Post-operative services are designed to provide a continuum of services from pre- to post-surgery. After surgery, diet changes are frequent and physical activity capacity improves rapidly. A crucial period is when weight loss slows and patients must adapt to maintaining their reduced weight. Ongoing diet and exercise counseling will be featured. In addition, physicians specializing in nutrition medicine will be available to provide needed periodic assessment for nutrient deficiencies known to occur after surgery and to help patients with the transition to maintaining weight loss for life.