Social Support Systems: A Qualitative Analysis of Female Bariatric Patients After the First Two Years Postoperative

Background: Obesity remains a prevalent public health concern in the United States, and as such, bariatric surgery is on the rise. Little research focus has been placed on the psychosocial impacts of the bariatric surgery experience once a patient is past 2 years postoperative. The purpose of this study was to explore experiences of patients who have undergone bariatric surgery at least 2 years prior and to gain an understanding of the successes and challenges they have faced since surgery. Materials and Methods: This study used a qualitative research design, guided by a phenomenological approach, to investigate and describe the meaning and essence of experiences of patients with social support after bariatric surgery. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a sample of nine participants who had undergone bariatric surgery and were 2-7 years postoperative. This study sought to answer the question: What are the meaningful experiences of bariatric patients who are at least 2 years postsurgery? Results: Two main themes emerged from the data: (a) interpersonal relationships and (b) bariatric support. Upon further analysis, three subthemes emerged from interpersonal relationships: "We are family," "I get a little help from my friends...or not," and "The working world." Conclusion: Support systems ranged from family, friends, and the workplace to bariatric-specific groups. Although all surgeons generally encourage support groups, only half of participants reported attending them regularly. In addition, there is no common standard to which all bariatric clinics are mandated to follow, thus not all support groups are created equal.