Your Complete Hospital Bag Checklist: What to Pack for Bariatric Surgery

Preparing for bariatric surgery is an exciting step toward transforming your health and life. While you’re likely focused on the procedure itself and the remarkable journey ahead, one practical detail deserves your attention: what to pack for your hospital stay. Having the right items ready can make your recovery more comfortable and help you feel confident as you begin this life-changing experience.

Dr. Sepehr Lalezari and the team at Lalezari Surgical in Los Angeles understand that thorough preparation helps patients feel more at ease. With advanced fellowship training from Johns Hopkins Medicine and nearly a decade of robotic surgery expertise, Dr. Lalezari performs minimally invasive procedures that typically mean shorter hospital stays and faster recovery times. That said, packing smartly ensures you have everything you need during your time at the facility and those first crucial days at home.

Essential Documents and Medical Information

Before you even think about comfortable clothing or entertainment, make sure you have all your important paperwork organized and ready to go. These documents are absolutely critical for your care.

• Insurance Cards and Photo ID: Bring both your insurance card and a government-issued ID for registration and verification purposes
• Medical Records and Test Results: Include any recent lab work, imaging studies, or pre-operative test results your surgeon requested
• Medication List: Write down all current medications, supplements, and vitamins with exact dosages and frequencies
• Emergency Contact Information: Have phone numbers for your designated support person and additional family members readily accessible
• Advance Directives: If you have healthcare proxy forms or living will documents, bring copies for your medical file
• Hospital Pre-Registration Forms: Complete any paperwork provided by Lalezari Surgical ahead of time to streamline your admission process

Having these essentials organized in a folder or envelope means you won’t be scrambling at check-in, and your medical team will have all the information they need to provide optimal care.

Comfortable Clothing That Promotes Healing

After bariatric surgery, you’ll want loose-fitting, comfortable clothing that doesn’t put pressure on your abdomen. The minimally invasive techniques used at Lalezari Surgical mean smaller incisions and less discomfort, but you’ll still want to avoid anything tight or restrictive.

• Loose-Fitting Pants or Shorts: Pack several pairs of elastic-waist bottoms that sit well above or below your incision sites
• Button-Up or Zip-Up Shirts: Avoid pulling anything over your head during the first few days when movement may be uncomfortable
• Comfortable Undergarments: Choose soft, seamless options that won’t irritate surgical sites
• Slip-On Shoes: Skip the laces and opt for comfortable, non-skid footwear that’s easy to put on without bending
• Lightweight Robe or Cardigan: Hospitals can be chilly, and having a layer you can easily put on and take off is helpful
• Going-Home Outfit: Prepare a comfortable ensemble that’s even looser than what you normally wear

Remember that you’ll be encouraged to walk regularly after surgery to prevent blood clots and promote healing. Comfortable shoes with good support make those important laps around the hospital floor much easier.

Personal Care Items for Comfort and Hygiene

While hospitals provide basic toiletries, having your own personal care items can make your stay feel more comfortable and familiar. Keep in mind that you’ll have some dietary restrictions and may experience nausea, so choose products with mild scents.

• Toothbrush and Toothpaste: Maintaining oral hygiene is especially important after bariatric surgery
• Unscented Soap and Shampoo: Strong fragrances can trigger nausea in the early post-operative period
• Deodorant and Body Wipes: You may not be able to shower immediately, so gentle cleansing wipes are helpful
• Lip Balm: Anesthesia and breathing tubes can leave lips dry and chapped
• Hairbrush and Hair Ties: If you have long hair, keep it pulled back and out of your face
• Glasses Instead of Contacts: Your eyes may be dry after surgery, and glasses are more comfortable during recovery
• Face Moisturizer: Hospital air can be very drying to your skin

Avoid bringing expensive jewelry, perfumes, or colognes. The goal is comfort and practicality during your hospital stay.

Items to Support Your Recovery Process

Certain items can make your post-surgical recovery smoother and help you follow your care team’s instructions more effectively. Dr. Lalezari and his team will provide detailed post-operative guidelines, and having these supplies ready helps you implement them.

• Small Pillow for the Car Ride: Holding a pillow against your abdomen provides cushioning and support during the drive home
• Water Bottle with Straw: Staying hydrated is crucial, and sipping through a straw makes it easier to meet your fluid goals
• Small Notebook and Pen: Track your fluid intake, medications, and any questions that arise for your follow-up appointments
• Phone Charger and Extension Cord: Keep your phone charged so you can stay connected with family and access post-op instructions
• Protein Shakes or Clear Liquids: Some patients prefer to bring their own approved beverages, though confirm this with your surgical team first
• Pain Medication Log: Track when you take pain relievers to avoid missed or duplicate doses

The advanced minimally invasive techniques used at Lalezari Surgical typically result in less post-operative discomfort than traditional open surgery, but having these comfort items ready still makes a difference.

Entertainment and Distraction Options

Hospital stays can involve some waiting time, especially as you rest between walks and meals. Having entertainment options helps pass the time and keeps your mind occupied.

• Books or E-Reader: Choose light, engaging reading material rather than anything too complex or stressful
• Tablet or Laptop: Stream favorite shows, check email, or stay connected with supportive friends and family
• Headphones or Earbuds: Respect other patients and hospital staff by keeping audio at a considerate volume
• Puzzle Books or Coloring Supplies: Low-key activities that don’t require too much concentration can be surprisingly relaxing
• Personal Photos: Some patients find comfort in having pictures of loved ones nearby during their hospital stay

Avoid packing too many valuables or items you’d be upset to lose. Hospital rooms are busy places, and it’s easy for small items to get misplaced.

What to Leave at Home

Just as important as what to pack is knowing what to leave behind. These items can complicate your hospital stay or recovery process.

• Jewelry and Valuables: Leave expensive watches, rings, and other jewelry at home where they’re safe
• Full-Size Bottles of Products: Travel-size toiletries are easier to pack and less likely to spill
• Heavy or Tight Clothing: You won’t need jeans, belts, or structured garments during your hospital stay
• Regular Medications: Your surgical team will manage your medications during your hospital stay, though bring the list of what you normally take
• Large Amounts of Cash: You won’t need money in the hospital, and it’s an unnecessary security risk
• Strong Perfumes or Scented Candles: These can trigger nausea and aren’t appropriate for a medical setting

Remember that Los Angeles traffic can be unpredictable, so have your designated driver arrive with plenty of time before your scheduled surgery.

Preparing Your Home Before Surgery

While technically not part of your hospital bag, preparing your home environment before surgery is equally important. You’ll want your recovery space ready when you return.

• Stock Your Kitchen: Fill your fridge and pantry with approved post-surgery foods and beverages
• Prepare a Recovery Station: Set up a comfortable area with pillows, blankets, entertainment, and easy access to everything you need
• Arrange for Help: Coordinate with family or friends who can assist with meals, errands, and household tasks during your first week home
• Clean and Organize: A tidy, organized home environment reduces stress and makes recovery easier
• Place Items at Waist Level: Avoid having to reach high or bend low by moving frequently used items to easy-access locations

These preparations mean you can focus entirely on healing rather than household logistics when you return home.

Questions to Ask Before You Pack

Every surgeon and facility may have slightly different recommendations, so always confirm specific requirements with Lalezari Surgical before your procedure date.

• What time should I arrive, and how long should I expect to stay? Most bariatric procedures require one to two nights in the hospital
• Will I need to bring my CPAP machine? If you use one for sleep apnea, confirm whether to bring it or if the hospital will provide one
• Are there any specific items the hospital provides? Knowing what’s supplied helps you avoid packing unnecessarily
• Can I bring my own protein shakes or supplements? Some facilities prefer to provide all nutrition items during your stay
• What’s the cell phone and electronics policy? Confirm charging station locations and any usage restrictions

Dr. Lalezari’s team at Lalezari Surgical provides comprehensive pre-operative instructions, but don’t hesitate to call with any packing questions or concerns.

Special Considerations for Los Angeles Patients

If you’re traveling to Lalezari Surgical in Los Angeles from outside the area, a few additional considerations apply.

• Hotel Arrangements: If staying overnight before or after surgery, book accommodations close to the hospital with easy access
• Local Transportation: Arrange for reliable transportation since you won’t be able to drive yourself after surgery
• Weather Appropriate Clothing: Los Angeles weather is generally mild, but check the forecast and pack layers
• Extended Stay Supplies: If you’re from out of town, you may need extra clothing and supplies for your recovery period before traveling home

The practice has three convenient locations throughout the Los Angeles area, including the main office at 1245 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 907, as well as Long Beach and San Pedro locations, making it easier for patients across Southern California to access world-class bariatric care.

Your Journey Begins With Preparation

Packing for bariatric surgery might seem like a small detail in the grand scheme of your weight loss journey, but it’s these practical preparations that help everything run smoothly. When you have the right items with you, you can focus on what truly matters: healing, following your care team’s guidance, and beginning your transformation.

Dr. Sepehr Lalezari’s extensive training and expertise with advanced robotic and minimally invasive techniques mean you’ll benefit from procedures designed for optimal comfort and faster recovery. His fellowship training at Johns Hopkins Medicine and recognition as a Los Angeles Magazine Top Doctor and Super Doctors Rising Star reflect his commitment to surgical excellence and patient-centered care.

Ready to Transform Your Life? Contact Lalezari Surgical Today

If you’re considering bariatric surgery and want to work with one of Los Angeles’s most experienced and skilled surgeons, Lalezari Surgical is ready to guide you through every step of your journey. From your initial consultation through post-operative care and beyond, Dr. Lalezari and his dedicated team provide comprehensive support designed around your unique needs.

Don’t let another day pass wondering what your life could be like. Contact Lalezari Surgical at (213) 545-1656 to schedule your consultation and learn more about the life-changing bariatric surgery options available to you. With offices throughout the Los Angeles area, including downtown Los Angeles, Long Beach, and San Pedro, expert care is closer than you think. Visit lalezarisurgical.com to discover how advanced surgical techniques and compassionate care can help you achieve your health and wellness goals.