Challenges Faced by Patients After Bariatric Surgery: A Qualitative Study in Swat, KPK, Pakistan

Background: Patients with severe obesity benefit greatly from bariatric surgery because it helps them lose weight and manage obesity-related medical issues. People dealing with bariatric surgery recovery experience multiple physical, emotional, and social issues, primarily in Swat, Pakistan, an area with limited resources. Aim: This research examined the difficulties that bariatric surgery patients encounter in Swat Pakistan as they adjust to physical changes and mental health needs alongside their new social situations. Methodology: We used the qualitative phenomenological method to conduct individual in-depth interviews with 12 bariatric surgery patients in Swat. We selected participants using purposive sampling methods and performed thematic analysis to examine the collected data. Results: The patients described major physical aftereffects like special diets, nutrient losses, and digestive problems. Bariatric surgery patients constantly worried about how they looked and who they were while fearing they might regain weight. Patients deal with social problems from family reactions and community views about food and weight. People handle their condition through professional help and support from peers as well as their own inner strength. Conclusion: The study shows that Swat bariatric surgery patients encounter many postoperative difficulties that require tailored healthcare programs and family education in this setting. By resolving these issues, healthcare providers can help patients maintain good results from their treatment over the long term in limited-resource environments.