The psychology of major weight loss

Scottsdale – Understanding the psychological issues associated with plastic surgery after major weight loss and bariatric surgery is an important step for every patient and plastic surgeon.

Recently, I reviewed an excellent article on the psychological issues associated with major weight loss surgery published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal. This is the kind of article that I hand out to all patients in clinic so that they too can learn about these issues.

The article points out that bariatric surgery can provide patients with a positive transformation of health and eating attitudes, but this type of surgery may also have profound lifestyle consequences. It is important to note that while positive psychological outcomes are seen with bariatric surgery, many patients continue to suffer from nutritional deficiencies, psychological battles with food and negative body image.

Negative body image can persist after weight loss. Additionally, many bariatric patients can suffer from depressive disorders, anxiety issues and mood disorders. Women are more likely to suffer from depression and their post-surgery psychological improvement is more significant. Body image dissatisfaction is also more prominent in women and can be associated with a higher incidence of depression, low self-esteem, and perfectionism. While bariatric surgery can improve body image, many patients seek plastic surgery to achieve a better body.

Body contouring surgery, including bodylift, thigh lift, and breast surgery can further improve body image.

Importantly, these psychological improvements with bariatric weight loss and plastic surgery after major weight loss may not be enduring. Additionally, because many bariatric patients have a psychological relationship with food, the weight loss established may not be maintained without consistent psychological and social support. The authors of the article suggest that optimization of psychological treatment and social resources can reduce negative impulses and social stress that revive old habits.