Weight loss expectations of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy candidates compared to clinically expected weight loss outcomes 1-year post-surgery.

Background: Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) results in significant, sustainable weight loss in obese individuals (body mass index (BMI) ≥ 40 kg/m(2) or BMI 35.0-39.9 kg/m(2) with major comorbidity). Average clinically expected % excess weight loss (%EWL) has been reported to be 56.1 % 1 year after LSG. Unrealistic weight loss expectations are purported to negatively impact treatment adherence and weight loss outcomes. This study examined the weight loss expectations of LSG candidates in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.

Methods: The Goals and Relative Weights Questionnaire was administered before the start of a bariatric surgery education session to 84 consecutive LSG candidates. Patients reported postoperative weight loss expectations in four categories: "dream", "happy", "acceptable", and "disappointed".

Results: Participants included 69 women and 15 men with an average age and weight of 43.7 years and 136.7 kg. The patients reported average postoperative "dream" and "happy" weights as 71.1 and 80.0 kg, respectively. Patients reported a weight of 86.2 kg as "acceptable" but would be "disappointed" with a weight of 105.6 kg. To achieve the desired amount of weight loss for each category, patients would have to achieve %EWLs of 88.7, 76.4, 68.2, and 40.6 %, respectively.

Conclusions: Patients have higher weight loss expectations than those that are clinically expected within 1 year after LSG.