Factors Influencing Quality of Life after Massive Weight Loss—What Makes the Difference?

Abstract

Although weight reduction in obesity and morbid obesity has been shown to improve associated comorbidities, there is currently no information on what influences quality of life after a large reduction in body weight. The present study looks at differences in patients’ quality of life classified by mode and amount of weight loss. Material and methods: A cross-sectional study was designed using a validated German version of the BODY-Q questionnaire. The internet-based questionnaire was distributed to patients via social media. Results: 460 patients (443 female, 17 male) were interviewed for this study via “Surveymonkey”. The comparison of conservative and surgical weight loss showed no significant difference in the patients’ quality of life (p > 0.05). A high BMI correlates negatively with body image (p = 0.023 *), as does the specific assessment of most body regions. For example, a negative correlation was found between a high BMI and satisfaction with skin appearance (p < 0.001 *) and satisfaction with the inner thigh (p = 0.011 *). Conclusion: Increased weight loss is associated with a greater ability to maximise quality of life. The type of weight loss, whether conservative or surgical, can be neglected based on the present study. Bariatric surgery cannot be considered a universal solution to obesity. Body contouring interventions should also become a focus of therapy.