Background

Global obesity affects one in three adults, prompting increased demand for metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS). Despite its effectiveness, limited access to MBS has led to more people seeking it through medical tourism for lower costs and shorter wait times. However, ethical concerns arise due to limited follow-up care and potential complications. This study compares the quality of life (QOL) of native MBS patients (n = 69) to those engaged in MBS tourism (n = 36) from 11 different countries, utilizing the Bariatric Quality of Life Index (BQLI). Conducted in Lahore, Pakistan, with 105 participants who had MBS in the last 3 years, the survey-based study aims to assess the impact of MBS tourism on QOL and the efficacy of bariatric surgery for weight loss. The study revealed no significant difference in the quality of life between MBS tourism participants and native patients (p > 0.05). Both cohorts experienced considerable weight reduction post-MBS (p = 0.00001). A higher total weight loss percentage (TWL%) correlated positively with increased BQLI scores (p = 0.01). Younger patients experienced significantly improved quality of life after MBS compared to their older counterparts (r = -0.3, p = 0.005). The TWL% exhibited a progressive increase as the months advanced post-MBS (r =0.3, p = 0.004). The type of bariatric surgery (SG, RYGB, OAGB, SADI) didn't significantly affect post-MBS quality of life (p > 0.05).