An Adolescent's Motivation to Pursue Bariatric Surgery

Introduction Childhood obesity has become a significant cause for concern in pediatric health care. Adolescents seek medical care for guidance in the treatment of obesity and comorbidities. Bariatric surgery has become a treatment option for adolescents with obesity. There is a limited understanding of an adolescent's decision to pursue bariatric surgery. The objective of this meta-aggregation review is to identify what is known about the motivations of adolescents to pursue bariatric surgery. Methods Studies were considered if they included adolescents 12–20 years old who have had or are considering bariatric weight loss surgery in all healthcare settings. Using a three-step search approach, published studies were identified in this meta-aggregation review. Each study was appraised by two independent reviewers using the John Hopkins Evidence Level Quality Guide. Synthesized findings were identified. Results Fifty-seven unequivocal findings were extracted from six studies and placed into six categories. These categories were further compiled into three synthesized findings. Findings indicate that adolescent bariatric patients need an external stimulus for surgery and are often motivated by the right time for surgery, as a last resort, and with external support. Motivators for surgery also included a desire for a healthy life and to reach personal goals. Negative body image and self-esteem as well as a desire for social acceptance are other motivators for surgery. Three synthesized themes identified were stimulus for surgery, sense of self, and healthy life. Conclusions Adolescent bariatric surgery is a growing treatment option offered to adolescents with obesity. Little is written about the motivations of adolescents seeking bariatric surgery, and it is not well researched. Further research involving qualitative work with adolescents with obesity who are considering bariatric surgery should be conducted.