Long-Term Psychosocial Outcomes of Bariatric Surgical Weight Loss

Abstract

<p>Bariatric surgery is increasingly used as a treatment for morbidly obese patients. This surgical option provides dramatic weight loss for patients with a Body Mass Index (BMI) greater than 40 who are 100 pounds or more overweight. The physical results of surgery are well documented; however, the psychosocial outcomes are not. Bariatric patients are not always prepared for the psychosocial outcomes of such dramatic changes in their physical bodies. Studies regarding the long-term effects of five years or more are limited in number. The research is exploratory in nature and will help provide information to guide future studies. I hypothesize that five years of more after bariatric surgery patients will begin to experience unintended, negative psychosocial consequences from such dramatic weight loss as patients lack skills necessary to reintegrate into society. Using a combination of a selfadministered survey and in-person interviews, I plan to explore post-surgical challenges faced by bariatric patients. Exploring and gaining a more complete understanding of these, challenges will allow for improved treatment of future bariatric patients.</p><p>This presentation occurred at the Wright State University Campus-Wide Celebration of Research, Scholarship and Creative Activities on April 8, 2011</p>