While preparing for your tubal ligation reversal, it’s important to maintain a healthy weight for the procedure. Having a healthy weight for your surgery helps ensure it is safe, successful, and provides you with the highest chance of pregnancy.
Why monitor your weight for tubal reversal surgery?
Tubal reversal surgery is a very safe procedure. However, as a person’s weight increases so do the risks of any type of surgery. Clinical studies prove that the risk of surgery complications is higher in those who are overweight or obese. Risks include breathing problems, infections, and heart, kidney, or lung complications. A longer recovery time is also common in overweight patients.
How do I know if I need to lose weight for tubal reversal surgery?
Body weight measured on a scale doesn’t give you the full picture of your health because it only takes your weight into consideration. Your body mass index (BMI) paints a clearer picture of your body composition because it takes both weight and height into consideration. To find your BMI, follow the formula below, or use an online BMI calculator.
(Your weight ×703) ÷ (your height in inches).
See where your BMI falls in the table below to determine your current BMI classification from livestrong.com.
| BMI | Classification |
| 18-24.9 | Normal |
| 25-29.9 | Overweight |
| 30 and above | Obese |
Does the Atchafalaya clinic have a weight limit for tubal reversal patients?
We do not have a weight limit for patients because weight is not an accurate indicator of health. There is also no ideal weight, as each patient is different.
However, we do prefer that our patients have a BMI under 37. This helps us ensure our patient’s safe surgery and recovery.
How can I lose weight for my tubal reversal?
If you are considering losing weight, we have a 3-step plan for success.
1) Get moving. Get 30 minutes of activity every day, no questions asked.Go for a walk around your neighborhood. Park in the last spot in the parking lot to pick up some extra steps at the grocery store. This will help you burn calories and strengthen your bones. Soon, it will become a routine and you won’t feel right unless you’ve gotten out and moved!
2) Eat healthy. Cut out junk foods that are high in saturated fats, such as candy bars, French fries, and chips. The easiest way to avoid these snacks is to not have them around, so don’t buy them! Stick to healthy snacks like Greek yogurt, carrot sticks with hummus, or a small handful or almonds. Also, start every meal with a salad and light dressing. Even if it’s as simple as lettuce and dressing, it will help fill you up and keep you from over-indulging on the main course or dessert.
3) Stay motivated. The hardest part of losing weight is staying motivated. Too often that couch calls to you and your favorite tortilla chips are beckoning you from down the hall. Keep reminders of why you’re losing weight on your desk and around you at home. Baby pictures always help, as do images of cute nurseries!
If you are concerned about your weight for your tubal reversal surgery, our nurses are here to help. They can advise on what, if anything, needs to be done, and help you get there! Call us today at (985) 702-BABY (2229) or email us at drmorice@mybabydoc.com.
