An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis Investigating UK Female Experiences of Psychosocial Adjustment Following Bariatric Surgery

Abstract

The psychosocial impact of bariatric surgery has not been studied as diligently as the physical impact, particularly within the first 6 months following surgery. The aim of the present study was to explore psychosocial adjustment in UK bariatric candidates within this time-scale. Six female participants were purposively recruited to complete a semi-structured interview, and Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis was used to analyse their experiences. Four super-ordinate themes emerged from the interview data which were: (1) "It was me but it wasn’t me": pre-surgery identity, (2) "I don’t see myself as this fat blob of a person anymore": transforming identity, (3) "No easy road to weight loss": the challenges of living with stomach restriction, (4) "I’m letting people in more now": re-engaging with others and the world. Participant accounts highlighted a largely positive psychosocial experience following surgery. Results are discussed in support of previous literature and suggest (1) the exploration of identity more thoroughly, and (2) the importance of routine pre- and post-surgery psychosocial support to be incorporated as part of Tier 3 and 4 bariatric services.