| A qualitative study employing a phenomenological approach explored the lived experiences of nine females who lost large amounts of weight at an abnormally rapid rate resultant from weight loss surgery (Roux-en-Y). In-depth, unstructured, and open-ended interviews were the primary form of data collection. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and coded for theme development. Emergent themes and sub-themes from data analysis naturally fell into the categories of the decision for surgery, pre-surgery quality of life, pre-surgery preparation and requirements, and post-surgery outcome.; Obesity represents a management challenge for many medical and mental health care professionals as well as a biological challenge for patients. Further study using longitudinal research methods need to compare successful weight loss and maintenance of the bariatric patient with a consistent behavioral, nutritional, and educational pre-surgery assessment procedure. The results of this study provide some interesting and potentially significant information for marital and family therapy clinicians, professional counselors, insurance providers and medical specialists dealing with individuals and family members facing weight loss surgery. |
