Long-Term Weight Regain Outcome Post-Bariatric Surgery: Key Influencing Factors

Area of Science:

• Bariatric Surgery Outcomes
• Obesity Research
• Metabolic Health

Background:

• Weight regain is a significant long-term challenge following bariatric surgery.
• Assessing factors associated with weight regain is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
• Understanding long-term weight trajectories (over 2 years) is essential for effective patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate long-term weight regain (defined as >25% from maximal weight lost) after bariatric surgery.
• To identify demographic, surgical, lifestyle, and psychosocial factors linked to weight regain.
• To determine the primary predictors of successful long-term weight maintenance post-surgery.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 234 adult patients (18-65 years) who underwent bariatric surgery were assessed.
• Data collected included demographics, surgical details, lifestyle factors, emotional health, and eating behaviors.
• Statistical analyses involved t-tests, chi-square tests, and multivariable logistic regression to identify predictors of optimal weight regain (less than 25% regain).

Main Results:

• 75.6% of participants achieved optimal weight regain status (less than 25% regain).
• Factors associated with optimal weight regain included male sex, lower inappropriate eating behaviors, and dietitian support.
• Eating behaviors explained the largest variance (13.5%) in weight regain outcomes, emphasizing their critical role.

Conclusions:

• The majority of patients maintain favorable weight outcomes two years post-bariatric surgery.
• Approximately one in four patients experience significant weight regain, underscoring a persistent challenge.
• Eating behaviors are the strongest predictor of long-term weight maintenance, highlighting the importance of dietary interventions and support.