Weight-Loss Surgery Doubles Self-Esteem Scores: Study Finds

The increase in self-esteem was strongly linked to the amount of weight lost, and held true across all demographics, including gender, age, race, and the specific type of bariatric procedure. The data suggest that greater weight loss contributes directly to greater improvements in self-worth and perceived quality of life.

"Understanding weight stigma and psychosocial factors associated with obesity is essential to offering holistic care. While these factors should not dictate the decision to have bariatric surgery, they should be an important part of the conversation," said study co-author Justin Dhyani, MD, from Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, Pennsylvania.

Weight stigma remains a persistent issue, affecting between 19% and 42% of adults with obesity. It is linked to a range of negative mental health outcomes, including depression, anxiety, disordered eating, and low self-esteem.

These findings support the growing recognition of the mental health benefits of bariatric surgery and underscore the importance of addressing stigma in obesity care.

Reference: https://asmbs.org/news_releases/new-study-finds-self-esteem-surges-within-one-year-of-weight-loss-surgery/