Table 2 Themes, subthemes y units of meaning

1.“Escaping a cruel environment”: weight loss to increase self-esteem

1.1 I love myself now

Reasons for the operation, changes, life changes, physique, self-esteem, negative body image

1.2 Body image and social relationships: a vicious circle

Insecurity, idealisation of society, flattery, cruel environment, social relationships, new activities

2. “Now, I am truly me”: accepting my body to reclaim my sexuality

2.1 The body as the focal point of sexuality

Physique, clothing, lingerie, lights on, reduced mobility, self-esteem, embarrassment, new positions, nudity, self-care

2.2 When regaining your sex drive reignites your sex life and relationship.

Changes in sex, attraction to others, orgasm, pleasurable sexual relations, new activities, sex drive, initiative, confidence