Psychosocial and Behavioral Status of Patients Undergoing Bariatric Surgery: What to Expect Before and After Surgery

Extreme obesity, characterized by a body mass index (BMI) of 40 kg/m2 or greater, is associated with significantly increased mortality, principally from cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and several cancers. It also is associated with an increased risk of psychosocial complications, including depression, eating disorders, and impaired quality of life. This article briefly examines the psychosocial status of extremely obese individuals who seek bariatric surgery and describes changes in functioning that can be expected with surgically induced weight loss. The article combines a review of the literature with clinical impressions gained from the more than 2500 candidates for bariatric surgery whom the authors have evaluated at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania.