Weight loss surgery may change relationship status: study

Undergoing weight loss surgery may not only help you lose the extra kilos, but also trigger a change in your relationship status, a study claims.

Published in the journal JAMA Surgery, the research showed that bariatric surgery patients had a higher probability of getting married, separating from their partner or getting divorced.

"We have previously studied the medical benefits of bariatric surgery, but this new study shows that other more personal aspects of the patient's life may also change after bariatric surgery," said Per-Arne Svensson, associate professor at Sahlgrenska Academy in Sweden.

Previous studies have shown that bariatric surgery promotes an improved quality of life and individuals become more socially active after the surgery, which could suggest that it might be easier to find a partner after surgery.

In the new study, researchers found that individuals who have undergone bariatric surgery are more likely to find a new partner or to get married compared with non-operated control subjects.

The study also reported an association between the degree of weight loss and the possibility of finding a partner.

It showed that separations and divorces are slightly more common after bariatric surgery.

The underlying reasons are unclear, but in some cases the new lifestyle adopted by an individual after surgery may lead to couples drifting apart.

It is also possible that the effects of weight loss, such as improved self-confidence and self-image, may empower those who have undergone bariatric surgery to leave unhealthy relationships, researchers said.

However, more research is needed to better understand the factors contributing to this observed increase in relationship breakdowns.

It is important that health care providers are aware that relationship status may change after bariatric surgery so that relevant information and support are provided, if necessary.

However, it is important to emphasise that bariatric surgery does not automatically lead to a dysfunctional relationship, the researchers caution.

Previous studies have shown that most relationships are strengthened or are unchanged.

"This is also supported by our study showing that the majority of individuals who have undergone bariatric surgery remain in the same relationship, many years after the surgery," said Svensson.

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