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A Qualitative Exploration of Couples' Experiences After Bariatric Surgery: Patient and Partner Perspectives and
Jessica D Farrar1, Elena Henderson2, Alexandra Terrill3
1Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, UT.
Background:
Bariatric surgery is an effective treatment for severe obesity, but psychosocial challenges often emerge postoperatively, affecting patients and their partners. Despite evidence that romantic relationships influence health outcomes, limited research explores the relational experience of couples following bariatric surgery.
Methods:
This qualitative study included six heterosexual couples (N = 12) in which one partner had undergone bariatric surgery 1.5-3 years prior. Separate focus groups were conducted for patients and partners to explore emotional, relational, and behavioral changes. Transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis attentive to narrative and temporal context.
Results:
Both patients and partners described overlapping needs related to improved communication, emotional support, and shared health behaviors. Patients highlighted body image concerns, intimacy changes, and mismatched physical abilities; partners emphasized uncertainty about how to provide effective support. Both groups expressed enthusiasm for structured, couple-based interventions to enhance adjustment.
Conclusions:
Findings illustrate the interdependence of patient and partner experiences following bariatric surgery and underscore the importance of addressing relational processes in post-surgical care. Integrating relationship-based interventions into bariatric aftercare may improve psychosocial adjustment and long-term outcomes.
