Mansi Tatiya
Bariatric Dietician & Content Writer
Psychosocial and behavioral aspects before and after Bariatric surgery
For people with extreme obesity (defined as a BMI > or = 30 kg/m2) or fall under obese category with two or more comorbidities, bariatric surgery is a popular treatment option. Bariatric surgery is the most efficient treatment for this population due to improvements in obesity-related health issues and sustained postoperative weight loss. However, most doctors concur that psychosocial and behavioral aspects have a role in positive postoperative outcomes. But there are various psychosocial and behavioral aspects that an individual goes through before and after bariatric surgery.
PRE- OPERATIVE PSYCHOSOCIAL AND BEHAVIOURAL ASPECTS:
Weight Stigma and Discrimination: People with obesity frequently experience stigma and discrimination due to their weight, which can negatively affect their self-esteem and perception of their bodies. To avoid these unpleasant experiences, one can consider bariatric surgery as an option
- Emotional factors: People who are obese go through a range of emotions like fear, embarrassment, anxiety, guilt, etc. which in turn affects their mental health and productivity.
- Body Image Issues: People who are obese frequently experience body image problems and have a poor opinion of their looks. They might look into bariatric surgery as a potential treatment because they want to alter the size and form of their bodies. It is crucial to remember that bariatric surgery does not always eliminate issues with body image, and further psychological assistance could be required to deal with these problems.
- Social Support and Relationships: People seeking bariatric surgery need the understanding and support of their family, friends, and other social relationships in order to make the best possible decision. When preparing for surgery and beyond, supportive relationships can offer inspiration, emotional support, and practical support.
- Dietary Changes: Individuals are often required to adjust their diets in order to prepare for bariatric surgery. This may entail adhering to a preoperative food regimen designed to shrink the liver to make surgery safer and more manageable. During this time, it’s crucial to follow the suggested nutritional recommendations.
- Physical activity: To increase their overall fitness and cardiovascular health before bariatric surgery, healthcare providers may advise patients to get moving. Increasing physical activity can aid in surgery preparation, improve surgical results, and speed up recovery after surgery.
- Behavior Modification: For bariatric surgery to be successful in the long run, major behavior alterations are needed. People are urged to adopt healthy eating practices including mindful eating, portion control, and selecting nutritious foods. In order to aid them in their weight loss efforts, they might also be recommended to start an ongoing fitness program and use stress-reduction tactics.
POST-OPERATIVE PSYCHOSOCIAL AND BEHAVIORAL MODIFICATIONS:
- Body Image and Self-Esteem: People may feel improvements in their body image and self-esteem following significant weight loss following bariatric surgery. They might feel happier and more assured about how they look. These issues can be addressed, and counselling and psychosocial assistance can help to foster a good body image.
- Social Networks and Support: Bariatric surgery may affect one’s social networks and support system. Because of jealousy, a change in the dynamic, or a difference in lifestyle preferences, some people may experience changes in their relationships with family, friends, or coworkers. Conversely, helpful connections can act as a source of inspiration, drive, and accountability for sustaining positive habits. Social support networks can be strengthened and nurtured to promote post-operative wellbeing. We at Aastha Bariatrics offer support group assistance whereby patients who have already had bariatric surgery discuss their experience, assisting those who are considering the procedure to build confidence.
- Emotional well-being: Bariatric surgery may significantly affect a patient’s emotional well-being. Many people report feeling happier and more satisfied with their lives generally, as well as experiencing mood improvements, less anxiety or depressive symptoms, and reduced stress. Others, on the other hand, could experience emotional difficulties such trouble adjusting, issues with their bodies, or mood swings. Regular follow-up sessions, therapy, and support groups can offer the required coping mechanisms and emotional support.
