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What to Expect: Complete Timeline from Consultation to Recovery

Understanding the entire bariatric surgery process—from your first consultation through full recovery—can help ease anxiety and ensure you’re fully prepared for this life-changing journey. Dr. Carlos Navarrete believes that informed patients who know exactly what to expect achieve the best outcomes and feel most confident throughout their transformation.

This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of the bariatric surgery timeline, including what happens before, during, and after your procedure. Whether you’re just beginning to explore weight loss surgery or you’ve already scheduled your operation, this detailed timeline will help you know exactly what to expect at each stage.

Quick Timeline Overview

Pre-Surgery Phase (2-8 weeks):

  • Initial consultation and evaluation
  • Medical testing and clearances
  • Pre-operative diet (2-4 weeks)
  • Travel arrangements and preparation

Surgery Day (Day 0):

  • Arrival and pre-op preparation
  • Surgery (1-2 hours)
  • Recovery room
  • Transfer to hospital room

Hospital Stay (1-3 nights):

  • Monitoring and pain management
  • Beginning liquid diet
  • Walking and mobility exercises
  • Discharge preparation

Early Recovery (Weeks 1-2):

  • Home recovery and rest
  • Clear liquid to full liquid diet progression
  • Pain management
  • Gradually increasing activity

Continued Recovery (Weeks 3-8):

  • Diet progression through stages
  • Returning to work
  • Increasing physical activity
  • Follow-up appointments

Long-Term Success (Months 3+):

  • Regular foods reintroduced
  • Establishing exercise routine
  • Maximum weight loss phase
  • Ongoing follow-up and support

Phase 1: Initial Consultation and Decision (Week 0)

What Happens During Your Consultation

Duration: 30-60 minutes (in-person or telemedicine)

Dr. Navarrete will:

  • Review your complete medical history
  • Discuss your weight loss goals and expectations
  • Calculate your BMI and assess candidacy
  • Review obesity-related health conditions
  • Explain gastric sleeve and gastric bypass options
  • Recommend the best procedure for your situation
  • Discuss risks, benefits, and expected outcomes
  • Answer all your questions
  • Provide detailed cost information

You should bring:

  • List of current medications and dosages
  • List of previous surgeries
  • Medical records if available
  • List of health conditions
  • Weight loss history
  • Insurance information (if applicable)
  • Questions and concerns written down

What to ask:

  • Am I a good candidate for surgery?
  • Which procedure do you recommend for me?
  • What are your complication rates?
  • How many procedures have you performed?
  • What results can I realistically expect?
  • What does the pre-op process involve?
  • What will recovery be like?
  • What are the costs and payment options?
  • What if complications occur after I return home?

Making Your Decision

After your consultation, you’ll:

  • Receive a personalized surgical recommendation
  • Get a detailed price quote
  • Have information about both procedures
  • Understand the complete timeline
  • Know next steps if you decide to proceed

Take time to:

  • Discuss with family and support system
  • Review all information provided
  • Consider your commitment level
  • Assess financial arrangements
  • Ask follow-up questions if needed

When you’re ready to proceed:

  • Contact Dr. Navarrete’s office to schedule
  • Provide required deposit (typically 50%)
  • Begin pre-operative preparation
  • Schedule travel arrangements

Phase 2: Pre-Operative Preparation (Weeks 1-8)

Medical Testing and Evaluation (Weeks 1-4)

Required tests typically include:

Blood work:

  • Complete blood count (CBC)
  • Comprehensive metabolic panel
  • Liver function tests
  • Kidney function tests
  • Lipid panel (cholesterol)
  • Hemoglobin A1C (diabetes screening)
  • Iron studies
  • Vitamin levels (B12, D, folate)
  • Thyroid function tests

Cardiac evaluation:

  • EKG (electrocardiogram) – all patients
  • Chest X-ray
  • Stress test or echocardiogram (if over 50 or cardiac risk factors)
  • Cardiology clearance if needed

Other testing:

  • Upper GI series or endoscopy (examines stomach)
  • H. pylori testing (stomach bacteria)
  • Pregnancy test (women of childbearing age)
  • Sleep study if suspected sleep apnea
  • Pulmonary function tests if lung disease

Where to get testing:

  • Local lab or hospital in your area
  • Results sent to Dr. Navarrete’s office
  • Dr. Navarrete can order tests for you
  • Some testing done in Tijuana on arrival

Timeline: Complete 2-4 weeks before surgery

Medical Optimization (Weeks 2-6)

If testing reveals issues needing attention:

Common pre-surgery optimizations:

  • Blood sugar control improvement (diabetics)
  • Blood pressure management
  • Anemia treatment (iron supplementation)
  • Vitamin deficiency correction
  • Sleep apnea treatment (CPAP)
  • Cardiac condition management
  • Weight loss if required

Medication adjustments:

  • Stop blood thinners (timing varies by medication)
  • Adjust diabetes medications
  • Review all supplements
  • Switch to liquid or crushable forms if needed
  • Stop NSAIDs 2 weeks before surgery

Lifestyle modifications to start:

  • Smoking cessation (minimum 4 weeks before)
  • Alcohol cessation (immediate)
  • Begin reducing caffeine gradually
  • Practice eating slowly and mindfully
  • Start walking daily
  • Begin taking recommended vitamins

Pre-Operative Diet (2-4 Weeks Before Surgery)

Weeks 3-4 before surgery: General healthy eating

  • Reduce calories to 1200-1500 daily
  • Increase protein intake (60-80g daily)
  • Reduce refined carbs and sugar
  • Eliminate alcohol completely
  • Cut out carbonated beverages
  • Increase water intake (64+ oz daily)
  • Practice portion control

Weeks 1-2 before surgery: Liver-shrinking diet

  • Strict low-calorie diet (800-1200 calories)
  • High protein (90-110g daily)
  • Very low carbohydrate
  • Minimal fats
  • Often includes protein shakes as meal replacements
  • Continued high water intake

Goals of pre-op diet:

  • Shrink liver size by 20%+
  • Lose 5-10% body weight
  • Reduce surgical risks
  • Prepare mentally for post-op eating
  • Demonstrate commitment

What you’ll eat:

  • Protein shakes (2-3 daily)
  • Lean proteins (chicken, fish, turkey)
  • Non-starchy vegetables
  • Small amounts of fruit
  • Low-fat dairy
  • Clear broths
  • Water, water, water

24-48 hours before surgery:

  • Clear liquids only
  • No solid foods
  • Continue hydration
  • Stop all food after midnight before surgery
  • May be allowed water up to 2-4 hours before

Travel Planning (2-4 Weeks Before)

Book your flights:

  • Fly into San Diego International Airport
  • Arrive 1-2 days before surgery (recommended)
  • Book return flight 3-5 days after surgery
  • Choose aisle seat for comfort
  • Consider trip insurance

Passport requirements:

  • Valid U.S. passport required
  • Must be valid for 6+ months beyond travel date
  • Passport card works for land crossing
  • Apply/renew early if needed

Arrange companion (recommended):

  • Spouse, family member, or close friend
  • Provides support and assistance
  • Helps with travel logistics
  • Emotional support during recovery
  • Can attend appointments with you

Transportation arrangements:

  • Dr. Navarrete’s office can arrange pickup from airport
  • Transportation to/from hospital included
  • Hotel transportation if staying additional days
  • Return to airport arranged

Hotel accommodations (if desired):

  • Many patients stay 1 night before surgery
  • Recovery hotels available post-discharge
  • Some prefer immediate return home
  • Dr. Navarrete’s office can recommend hotels

Pack for your trip:

  • Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
  • Slip-on shoes
  • Toiletries and medications
  • Phone charger
  • Insurance documents
  • Passport
  • Credit card
  • Small pillow for car rides
  • Entertainment (books, tablet)
  • Protein shakes for return journey

Final Week Preparation (Week -1)

Medical preparations:

  • Confirm all testing is complete
  • Pick up any prescribed medications
  • Stop blood thinners as directed
  • Continue liver-shrinking diet strictly
  • Stop caffeine 48 hours before
  • No alcohol

Practical preparations:

  • Finalize travel arrangements
  • Arrange time off work
  • Arrange childcare/pet care if needed
  • Stock home with recovery supplies
  • Prepare post-op diet items
  • Clean and organize recovery space
  • Complete work or household tasks

Shopping list for home:

  • Protein shakes (multiple flavors)
  • Clear broths (low sodium)
  • Sugar-free gelatin
  • Sugar-free popsicles
  • Decaffeinated tea
  • Vitamin water or Gatorade Zero
  • Greek yogurt
  • Cottage cheese
  • Blender for pureed foods
  • Small plates and utensils
  • Pill crusher or cutter
  • Heating pad
  • Thermometer

Mental preparation:

  • Visualize successful outcome
  • Review dietary guidelines
  • Understand post-op instructions
  • Address any last-minute fears
  • Connect with support system
  • Get adequate sleep
  • Practice stress management

Pre-Operative Appointment (1-2 Days Before)

Final meeting with Dr. Navarrete:

  • Review surgical plan
  • Confirm procedure type
  • Sign consent forms
  • Meet anesthesiologist
  • Review post-operative instructions
  • Get prescriptions
  • Ask final questions

Pre-op instructions:

  • Nothing to eat after midnight
  • Clear liquids until 2-4 hours before (as directed)
  • Shower with antibacterial soap
  • No makeup, jewelry, nail polish
  • Wear comfortable, loose clothing
  • Arrive at scheduled time

Phase 3: Surgery Day (Day 0)

Morning of Surgery

Arrival time: Typically 2-3 hours before scheduled surgery

What to expect:

Registration and intake:

  • Check in at surgical facility
  • Complete final paperwork
  • Verify identity and procedure
  • Change into surgical gown
  • Store personal belongings securely

Pre-operative area:

  • Meet pre-op nursing team
  • Vital signs taken (blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, oxygen)
  • IV line placement
  • Meet with anesthesiologist
  • Final questions answered
  • Say goodbye to companion

Meeting with Dr. Navarrete:

  • Confirms you’re ready
  • Reviews procedure one final time
  • Answers any last-minute questions
  • Marks surgical site
  • Provides reassurance

Anesthesia preparation:

  • Meet anesthesia team
  • Review medical history
  • Discuss anesthesia plan
  • Address concerns

During Surgery

Timeline: 60-120 minutes depending on procedure

What happens:

  • Walk or wheeled to operating room
  • Transfer to operating table
  • Positioned for surgery
  • Monitors placed (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen)
  • Anesthesia administered (you fall asleep)
  • Breathing tube placed
  • Surgery performed laparoscopically
  • Dr. Navarrete creates sleeve or bypass
  • Leak test performed
  • Incisions closed
  • Wake up in recovery room

You won’t remember:

  • Being in operating room
  • Anesthesia administration
  • The surgery itself
  • Initial recovery room time

Gastric Sleeve procedure:

  • 5-6 small incisions made
  • Camera inserted
  • 75-80% of stomach removed
  • Staple line created
  • Leak test performed
  • Duration: 60-90 minutes

Gastric Bypass procedure:

  • 5-6 small incisions made
  • Small stomach pouch created
  • Small intestine divided and rerouted
  • Connections created
  • Leak test performed
  • Duration: 90-120 minutes

Recovery Room (1-2 Hours)

Immediately after surgery:

  • Wake up in recovery room
  • Breathing tube removed (you won’t remember)
  • Oxygen mask or nasal cannula
  • Closely monitored
  • Pain medication administered
  • Gradually become more alert

What you’ll experience:

  • Grogginess from anesthesia
  • Sore throat from breathing tube
  • Drowsiness
  • Some discomfort or pain
  • Oxygen mask
  • IV fluids running
  • Compression devices on legs

Monitoring includes:

  • Vital signs every 15 minutes
  • Oxygen levels
  • Pain levels
  • Nausea
  • Alertness

When stable, you’ll:

  • Transfer to hospital room
  • Reunite with companion briefly
  • Begin hospital recovery phase

Phase 4: Hospital Stay (Days 0-2)

First Evening After Surgery

What to expect:

Your hospital room:

  • Private room (typically)
  • Hospital bed with controls
  • Bathroom
  • TV and phone
  • Nurse call button
  • Compression devices on legs
  • IV fluids running

Pain management:

  • IV pain medication initially
  • Transition to oral pain meds
  • Pain typically 3-5 out of 10
  • Managed well with medication
  • Soreness at incision sites
  • Gas pain in shoulders (from CO2)

Activity:

  • Encouraged to walk within 4-6 hours
  • Nurse assists with first walk
  • Walk hallways several times
  • Sit in chair periodically
  • Not complete bed rest

Diet:

  • Nothing by mouth initially (NPO)
  • Small sips of water if no nausea
  • Ice chips available
  • Clear liquids started (small amounts)

Monitoring:

  • Vital signs every 4 hours
  • Oxygen levels
  • Pain levels
  • Urine output
  • Drain output (if placed)
  • Nausea and vomiting

What’s normal:

  • Fatigue and sleepiness
  • Mild to moderate pain
  • Gas pain and bloating
  • Difficulty getting comfortable
  • Frequent vital signs checks
  • Waking through the night

Day 1 After Surgery

Morning:

  • Dr. Navarrete visits
  • Examines incisions
  • Reviews how you’re doing
  • Orders continue or adjustments

Activity progression:

  • Walk hallways 4-6 times
  • Each walk a bit longer
  • Sit in chair for meals
  • Deep breathing exercises
  • Leg exercises in bed

Diet progression:

  • Continue clear liquids
  • 1 oz every 15-30 minutes
  • Take tiny sips
  • Water, broth, sugar-free gelatin
  • Protein water if tolerating

Pain management:

  • Transition to oral pain medication
  • Usually pills or liquid
  • Given every 4-6 hours
  • Don’t wait until pain is severe

What you might experience:

  • Less grogginess
  • More alert and awake
  • Improved pain (but still present)
  • Gas pain and bloating
  • Difficulty finding comfortable position
  • Better appetite for liquids
  • More energy for walking

Tests or procedures:

  • Upper GI swallow study (some surgeons)
  • Checks for leaks
  • Drain removal if present

Day 2 After Surgery (Discharge Day)

Morning:

  • Dr. Navarrete final visit
  • Reviews recovery progress
  • Examines incisions
  • Provides discharge instructions
  • Prescribes medications
  • Clears for discharge

Discharge criteria met:

  • Pain controlled with oral medication
  • Tolerating clear liquids
  • Walking independently
  • No fever
  • No signs of complications
  • Vital signs stable
  • Urinating normally

Discharge process:

  • Receive written instructions
  • Get prescriptions filled
  • Schedule follow-up appointment
  • Emergency contact information provided
  • Questions answered
  • Arrange transportation

Going home:

  • Change into comfortable clothes
  • Companion picks you up
  • Drive to hotel or airport
  • Travel home (if same day)

What you’ll receive:

  • Discharge instructions
  • Pain medication prescription
  • Anti-nausea medication
  • Acid reducer medication
  • Dietary guidelines
  • Activity restrictions
  • Warning signs list
  • Follow-up appointment info
  • 24/7 emergency contact

Phase 5: First Week Home (Days 3-7)

What to Expect at Home

Physical feelings:

  • Fatigue and low energy (normal)
  • Soreness at incision sites
  • Gas pain (improves with walking)
  • Difficulty getting comfortable
  • Need for frequent rest
  • Better each day

Daily routine:

Morning:

  • Take medications as prescribed
  • Sip water slowly throughout day
  • Short walk around house
  • Rest periods
  • Small amounts of clear liquids

Afternoon:

  • Continue sipping liquids
  • Walk outside if weather permits
  • 10-15 minute walks, several times
  • Rest with heating pad for comfort
  • Liquid protein intake

Evening:

  • Continue hydration
  • Final medications
  • Light walking
  • Prepare for bed early

Diet Week 1:

  • Clear liquids days 3-4
  • Full liquids days 5-7
  • 1-2 oz every 15-30 minutes
  • 64+ oz total fluids daily
  • Protein shakes (if cleared)
  • No solid foods yet

Example daily intake:

  • Morning: 2 oz protein shake (sip over 30 min)
  • Mid-morning: 2 oz water
  • Late morning: 2 oz chicken broth
  • Noon: 2 oz protein shake
  • Afternoon: 2 oz sugar-free juice
  • Late afternoon: 2 oz water
  • Evening: 2 oz protein shake
  • Night: 2 oz water
  • Total: 16 oz + additional water sips

Activity:

  • Walk 10-15 minutes, 4-6 times daily
  • Gradually increase distance
  • No heavy lifting (nothing over 10 lbs)
  • No strenuous exercise
  • No driving while on pain meds
  • Rest when tired

Incision care:

  • Keep dry for 48 hours
  • Then shower normally
  • Pat incisions dry
  • No bathing, swimming, hot tubs
  • No lotions or ointments
  • Watch for redness, drainage
  • Steri-strips fall off on their own

Medications:

  • Pain medication as needed
  • Anti-nausea if needed
  • Acid reducer (PPI) twice daily
  • Multivitamin (chewable or liquid)
  • Any other prescribed medications

Sleep:

  • Sleep propped up (pillows)
  • Difficult to find comfortable position
  • Improves after a few days
  • Expect interrupted sleep
  • Nap during day if needed

What’s normal:

  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Minimal hunger
  • Difficulty drinking enough
  • Gas and bloating
  • Emotional ups and downs
  • Bruising around incisions
  • Sleeping a lot

Warning signs to report:

  • Fever over 101°F (38.3°C)
  • Severe pain not controlled by medication
  • Persistent vomiting
  • Inability to keep down liquids
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Rapid heart rate (over 120 bpm)
  • Shortness of breath
  • Redness or drainage from incisions
  • Leg swelling or pain

Follow-Up Communication

Week 1 check-in:

  • Dr. Navarrete’s team contacts you
  • Assess how you’re recovering
  • Answer questions
  • Address concerns
  • Provide guidance

When to contact office:

  • Any warning signs
  • Concerns about recovery
  • Questions about diet
  • Medication questions
  • Unable to tolerate liquids

24/7 emergency line:

  • Available for urgent concerns
  • Staffed by medical professionals
  • Immediate response to serious issues

Phase 6: Weeks 2-4 Recovery

Week 2: Transitioning and Adjusting

Physical recovery:

  • Energy improving significantly
  • Pain minimal or gone
  • Incisions healing well
  • More comfortable sleeping
  • Feeling more like yourself

Diet progression:

  • Continue full liquids through week 2
  • Can include thicker shakes
  • Cream soups (strained)
  • Greek yogurt (thinned)
  • Sugar-free pudding
  • Increase to 3-4 oz per serving

Daily liquid intake goal:

  • 64-80 oz total fluids
  • 60-80g protein (from shakes)
  • Sip continuously throughout day
  • Separate drinking from “eating”

Activity:

  • Walking 20-30 minutes continuously
  • 2-3 longer walks daily
  • Can drive if off pain meds
  • Still no heavy lifting
  • No strenuous exercise yet

Return to work:

  • Desk job: Can return week 2
  • Start part-time if possible
  • Full-time if feeling ready
  • Physical job: Wait until week 3-4

What you’ll notice:

  • Rapid weight loss (15-25 lbs lost)
  • Clothes fitting looser
  • More energy daily
  • Less need for pain medication
  • Better sleep
  • Mood improvements

Weeks 3-4: Pureed Foods Stage

Diet advancement:

  • Begin pureed foods week 3
  • Consistency of baby food
  • Protein-focused meals
  • 2-4 oz per meal
  • 5-6 small meals daily

Pureed food options:

  • Pureed chicken, turkey, fish
  • Scrambled eggs (very soft)
  • Low-fat cottage cheese
  • Mashed beans
  • Greek yogurt (regular consistency)
  • Pureed vegetables
  • Sugar-free applesauce

Eating guidelines:

  • Eat slowly (20-30 minutes per meal)
  • Chew thoroughly (even pureed foods)
  • Stop at first sign of fullness
  • No drinking 30 minutes before/after eating
  • Protein first, always
  • Measure portions

Physical activity:

  • Walking 30-45 minutes daily
  • Can begin light stretching/yoga
  • Swimming allowed (incisions healed)
  • Still no heavy lifting
  • No high-impact exercise yet

Return to normal activities:

  • Most daily activities resumed
  • Can travel
  • Social activities
  • Light housework
  • Most work duties

What to expect:

  • Weight loss: 25-40 lbs total
  • Continued fatigue (improving)
  • Learning new eating patterns
  • Adjusting to smaller portions
  • Some foods may not sit well
  • Trial and error with foods

Phase 7: Weeks 5-8 Recovery

Weeks 5-6: Soft Foods Stage

Diet progression:

  • Advance to soft, moist foods
  • Easier to digest proteins
  • Cooked vegetables
  • Soft fruits
  • 3-4 oz per meal
  • 4-5 meals daily

Soft food options:

  • Tender chicken or turkey (ground)
  • Baked or grilled fish
  • Soft-cooked eggs
  • Low-fat cheese
  • Canned tuna/chicken (in water)
  • Well-cooked vegetables
  • Soft fruits (bananas, melon)
  • Hot cereals

Foods still avoided:

  • Tough, dry meats
  • Bread and pasta
  • Rice
  • Raw vegetables
  • Fruits with tough skins
  • Nuts and seeds
  • Fried foods

Physical activity:

  • Begin light strength training
  • Continue walking daily
  • Add variety (swimming, cycling)
  • Can do most exercises
  • Listen to your body

Weeks 7-8: Transition to Regular Foods

Diet progression:

  • Introduce regular textured foods
  • Continue protein-first approach
  • Slowly add new foods one at a time
  • Test tolerance
  • 3-4 oz per meal
  • 4-5 meals daily

Regular foods to try:

  • All lean proteins
  • Most vegetables (cooked or raw)
  • Most fruits
  • Small amounts whole grains
  • Healthy fats in moderation

Continued restrictions:

  • High-sugar foods
  • High-fat fried foods
  • Carbonated beverages
  • Tough, fibrous meats
  • Doughy breads
  • Any foods you don’t tolerate

Exercise routine established:

  • 150+ minutes moderate exercise weekly
  • Strength training 2-3x weekly
  • Cardio activities
  • Flexibility work
  • Active lifestyle

Weight loss at 2 months:

  • Typical loss: 40-60 pounds
  • Feeling significantly better
  • Many health improvements noticed
  • More energy and mobility
  • Continued steady loss

Phase 8: Months 3-6 (Rapid Weight Loss Phase)

Physical Changes

Weight loss acceleration:

  • Fastest weight loss period
  • 8-12 pounds per month
  • Total loss by 6 months: 60-80+ pounds
  • BMI drops significantly
  • Body composition changing

Health improvements:

  • Diabetes improvement/resolution
  • Blood pressure normalizing
  • Cholesterol improving
  • Sleep apnea resolving
  • Joint pain decreasing
  • Medication reductions
  • Energy increasing

Physical appearance:

  • Dramatic visible changes
  • Clothes several sizes smaller
  • Face thinning noticeably
  • Need new wardrobe
  • Increased confidence

Dietary Establishment

Regular eating pattern:

  • 3 meals + 1-2 snacks daily
  • 4-6 oz portions per meal
  • 1000-1200 calories daily
  • 60-80g protein daily
  • Consistent eating schedule

Food variety:

  • Most foods tolerated well
  • Identifying personal intolerances
  • Developing favorite healthy meals
  • Learning restaurants strategies
  • Cooking differently

Continued habits:

  • Protein first at every meal
  • No drinking with meals
  • Eating slowly and mindfully
  • Stopping when satisfied
  • Measuring portions
  • Tracking intake

Exercise Progression

Established routine:

  • 45-60 minutes daily activity
  • Mix of cardio and strength
  • Increased stamina
  • Trying new activities
  • Joining classes or groups
  • Making exercise a lifestyle

Follow-Up Care

3-month appointment:

  • Weight and measurements
  • Blood work ordered
  • Review progress
  • Address concerns
  • Adjust vitamins if needed
  • Celebrate success

6-month appointment:

  • Comprehensive evaluation
  • Blood work review
  • Nutritional assessment
  • Exercise discussion
  • Goal setting for next phase

Phase 9: Months 7-12 (Continued Weight Loss)

Weight Loss Continuation

Expected progress:

  • Continued steady loss
  • 4-8 pounds per month
  • Total loss by 12 months: 80-100+ pounds
  • Approaching goal weight range
  • Occasional plateaus (normal)

Plateau management:

  • Change exercise routine
  • Review food intake honestly
  • Increase protein
  • Drink more water
  • Get adequate sleep
  • Manage stress
  • Be patient

Lifestyle Establishment

New normal:

  • Healthy habits becoming automatic
  • Less focus on weight, more on health
  • Confident in food choices
  • Regular exercise routine
  • Improved body image
  • Better quality of life

Social adjustments:

  • Navigating compliments
  • Handling relationship changes
  • Setting boundaries
  • Enjoying new activities
  • Increased confidence

Maintenance Preparation

Developing skills for maintenance:

  • Recognizing true hunger vs head hunger
  • Managing emotional eating
  • Planning ahead for challenges
  • Having strategy for special occasions
  • Building support network
  • Preparing for lifelong commitment

Phase 10: Beyond 12 Months (Maintenance)

Maximum Weight Loss

18-24 months post-surgery:

  • Maximum weight loss achieved
  • Weight stabilizes
  • Body composition optimized
  • New set point established

Typical final results:

  • Gastric sleeve: 60-70% excess weight lost
  • Gastric bypass: 65-75% excess weight lost
  • Significant health improvements
  • Transformed quality of life

Lifelong Commitments

Dietary habits:

  • Continue protein-first eating
  • Small portions forever
  • Vitamin supplementation daily
  • Avoid problematic foods
  • Stay hydrated
  • Mindful eating practices

Exercise:

  • Regular physical activity
  • Mix of cardio and strength
  • Active lifestyle
  • Finding activities you enjoy
  • Making fitness a priority

Medical follow-up:

  • Annual bloodwork
  • Regular check-ins
  • Address issues promptly
  • Monitor for deficiencies
  • Weight monitoring

Support system:

  • Stay connected to support groups
  • Maintain accountability
  • Help other patients
  • Celebrate non-scale victories
  • Address challenges proactively

Long-Term Success

Keys to maintenance:

  • Never stop following basic rules
  • Stay vigilant about portions
  • Weigh regularly
  • Keep exercise consistent
  • Take vitamins daily
  • Attend follow-ups
  • Address regain immediately
  • Remember your “why”

Your Journey with Dr. Carlos Navarrete

Comprehensive Support Throughout

Dr. Navarrete provides:

  • ✅ Thorough pre-operative preparation
  • ✅ Expert surgical care
  • ✅ Attentive hospital follow-up
  • ✅ Detailed discharge instructions
  • ✅ 24/7 emergency support
  • ✅ Regular post-operative check-ins
  • ✅ Telemedicine follow-up appointments
  • ✅ Nutritional guidance
  • ✅ Exercise recommendations
  • ✅ Lifelong support and encouragement

Success through partnership:

  • Dr. Navarrete provides the surgical tool
  • You provide the commitment to change
  • Together, you achieve transformation

Ready to Begin Your Timeline?

Understanding the complete timeline from consultation to long-term success helps you feel confident and prepared for each stage of your journey. With Dr. Carlos Navarrete’s expert guidance and comprehensive support, you’ll navigate each phase successfully.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Start your transformation timeline now.

The first step is always the hardest, but it’s also the most important. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Carlos Navarrete to begin mapping out your personal journey to lasting weight loss and improved health.

Contact Dr. Navarrete’s Office:

📧 Email: info@drcarlosnavarrete.com 📱 Phone: +1 (619) 735 2596 💻 Website: TijuanaBariatricClinic.com

During your consultation, you’ll:

  • ✅ Understand your personalized timeline
  • ✅ Learn what to expect at each stage
  • ✅ Get answers to all your questions
  • ✅ Receive detailed preparation instructions
  • ✅ Feel confident and prepared
  • ✅ Take the first step toward transformation

Your new life has a timeline, and it starts today. Contact us now to begin your journey with Dr. Carlos Navarrete.

Don’t spend another day wondering what the process involves. Get clear, detailed answers about every step of your weight loss surgery journey. From consultation through lifelong success, Dr. Navarrete and his team will guide you every step of the way.

The timeline to your transformation begins with a single decision. Make that decision today.

Email

info@drcarlosnavarrete.com

Phone

+52 (664) 684 0687

+1 (619) 735 2596

Address

Blvd. Abelardo L. Rodríguez #2916, Zona Río, Tijuana, B.C., México

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