Introduction:
There is a lack of knowledge how people with low self-efficacy experience their postoperative recovery after bariatric surgery. This study’s aim was to explore patients’ experiences of their recovery after bariatric surgery, in those reporting low preoperative self-efficacy.
Method:
This was a qualitative inductive interview study. Individual interviews with eighteen participants were conducted approximately one year after the surgery. Data was analyzed using thematic analysis by Braun and Clark.
Results:
The analysis identified one theme and five sub-themes.Participants described they had to learn to handle their new situation that included learning to know their new body, handling thoughts about themselves, and to manage social relations. Social relations, support, successes, and challenges all influenced their self-efficacy. This affected their thoughts about adapting lifestyle changes, keeping the motivation, and handling setbacks
Conclusion:
Recovery one year after bariatric surgery is still an ongoing process that involves challenges in lifestyle changes and physical and psychological transformations. During the recovery process self-efficacy is not static and in transition. Clinical implications are tailored information and support from health care personnel is needed.