Exploring Behavioral and Psychological Influences on Weight Regain and Weigh Loss After 3 Years Undergone Bariatric Surgery: In-Depth Exploration

Background : Bariatric surgery is often regarded as the gold standard treatment for obesity. However, the long-term success of this intervention depends not only on the procedure itself but also on subsequent behavioral and psychological adaptations. Objective: This study aimed to in-depth explore the behavioral and psychological factors influencing weight gain or loss among participants three years post-bariatric surgery. Methods: Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study combined descriptive quantitative and interpretative qualitative methodologies to achieve a comprehensive analysis. Data were collected through questionnaires for quantitative insights and in-depth interviews for qualitative exploration. This methodological integration allowed for a thorough examination of a wide range of variables affecting post-surgical weight management. Results : The findings revealed a wide variance in the percentage of weight regain among participants, ranging up to 89.0% of the lowest weight achieved post-surgery. Almost half of the participants with obesity perceive themselves as overweight rather than with obesity. The majority of participants did not change their lifestyle after the surgery. Seventy-five percent are not following any nutritional or dieting programs, and only less than 12% engage in any physical activity, with a higher level of sedentary lifestyle. Conclusion : These results revealed the complex interplay of factors that influence weight management after surgical intervention. The recurrence of obesity among the participants was primarily attributed not to the surgical procedures themselves but to insufficient postoperative behavioral changes, underscoring the necessity for integrated support systems focusing on lifestyle modifications and psychological support to enhance long-term surgical outcomes.