Cirugía bariátrica en pacientes jóvenes: ¿Cómo evalúan el proceso?

The rate of bariatric surgery has increased in younger populations, nonetheless data about the psychosocial evolution of young adults who undergo this intervention is scarce. Thus, there is a need to understand the differences and similarities of experiences compared with older adults. Aim: To explore pre- and post-operative experiences and needs of young adults who underwent bariatric surgery in health care centers in Chile. Method: Cross-sectional qualitative study with an exploratory/descriptive scope. We interviewed 27 young adults between 18 and 27 years old, who underwent bariatric surgery. Data were analyzed using open coding technique from grounded theory. Results: Four categories regarding the evolution of the operative process were identified. These included: obesity history, surgery motives, postoperative experiences, as well as environmental and personal facilitators of the process. Discussion: Participants, in general, showed similar experiences compared to the ones reported by adults. Nonetheless, we found specific elements of the developmental period and age-specific context, which are necessary to consider for the short- and long-term pre- and post-operative professional and family support.