Concerns about Bariatric Surgery: Internet Postings of Patients

Abstract

There is very sparse literature on the social, psychological and emotional concerns of patients following bariatric surgery. Due to the rapidly increasing popularity of this medical procedure, this study attempts to examine some of the major issues faced by patients. Internet postings are analyzed from a popular bariatric surgery Internet support site. Themes identified using a grounded theory approach are identified as depression, fear of dying, nutrition, and supplements. Implications for practice are presented.