New aftercare group launched for patients following stomach reduction surgery
Improving long-term care and quality of life after weight loss surgery
The University Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy Magdeburg is expanding its range of treatments to include a specialised aftercare group for patients who have undergone stomach reduction surgery. This closes the gap in care following these so-called bariatric operations (operations intended to promote weight loss). The aftercare group offers those affected continuous support with the necessary lifestyle changes in the first year after the operation, which is considered to be particularly challenging. The aim is to improve postoperative quality of life, stabilise eating habits and promote long-term weight loss. The aim is to prevent relapses into unfavourable behavioural patterns and the worsening of existing or the development of concomitant obesity-related diseases.
As a rule, stomach reduction surgery not only results in rapid weight loss, but also requires far-reaching lifestyle changes: "In addition to dietary changes and physical activity, the self-perception and social interactions of those affected change. However, conventional aftercare has so far been limited to a few appointments, leaving many patients alone with the new challenges," explains Prof Dr Florian Junne, Director of the University Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy Magdeburg.
The clinic would like to support those affected with precisely these challenges.To this end, the group of a maximum of twelve patients meets at regular intervals in the first year after bariatric surgery under the professional guidance of psychologist Sarah Rösch and nutritional therapist Elena Sohn. "We look forward to helping those affected to share their experiences in a safe environment and develop strategies together to cope with their new life circumstances," says Sarah Rösch.
The group's topics are tailored to the needs of patients who have had stomach reductions and include nutrition, exercise, emotional regulation and body image.Both behavioural therapy and psychodynamic techniques are used to ensure a holistic approach.
Interested patients and referring physicians can contact the Outpatient Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy via the secretariat of the University Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy Magdeburg (Tel. 0391-67-14251).They will be happy to provide you with further information on this service.
Contact for the media
Sarah Rösch, psychologist, therapeutic head of the aftercare group, outpatient clinic of the University Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy at Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Tel.: +49-391-67-25494,
Symbolic photo of stomach reductions - © mi_viri - stock.adobe.com