Background

Following bariatric surgery, approximately 20-30% of individuals regain weight. Continued support and consistent messaging throughout the surgery journey is imperative for patients to ensure long-term success. This study aimed to understand benefits of current surgical programs to promote sustainable weight loss and areas of improvement. Nationally, post-bariatric surgery patients were recruited through Reddit to participate in an online survey and optional focus group session. Survey data included demographics, BMI, and support desires following surgery. Optional focus groups were analyzed using an iterative approach to identify main themes and subthemes. Survey participants (n=24) were predominately female sex (77.3%), white (87.5%), 42 years of age (42.4±13.5 years average), have a post-operative BMI of 37.6±8.6 kg/m2, and 33.3% re-gained weight since surgery (range 7-75 pounds). Of post-op support, 79.2% of patients desired more physician aid, followed by 58.3% desiring more dietitian support. Two interviews and two focus groups were held. Four main themes were identified including desire for post-op psychological support (n=20), inconsistent nutrition guidance (n=23), ineffective clinic nutrition support (n=22) and web-based support benefits (n=32). One participant stated, “I think I found my support group, not through my hospital, but it was through one of the online forums.” Patients benefit from interaction with providers and support networks, however, conflicting messaging between surgical programs can lead to confusion, lack of confidence, and potential weight re-gain. Current research identifies the need to enhance support of post-operative patients, particularly those with weight re-gain. Standardization of nutrition and lifestyle support guidelines could be of benefit.