Bariatric Surgery and Self‑Esteem: Does the Boost in Self-Esteem Last?

Original Article: https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/bariatric-surgery-boosts-self-esteem-does-it-last-2025a1000he9

Early Gains in Confidence

A recent study reported that positive self‑esteem scores among individuals having bariatric surgery for obesity more than doubled—from about 34 before surgery to 76 at one year after their procedure—on a 0–100 scale. Those who lost the most weight experienced the greatest improvements, and this trend held true across different age groups, races, and BMI categories.

Why the Boost Happens

The study’s authors, suggest that rapid weight loss helps reduce internalized weight stigma—meaning negative beliefs about one’s own body—that often accompany being obese. Lower stigma correlates with higher self-worth, lifting confidence dramatically. Given that weight stigma is linked to depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem, the positive impact on mental health has the potential to be powerful.

Is It Permanent?

While the one-year results are promising, experts caution that lasting self-esteem depends on more than surgery. Without ongoing support—such as mental health counseling, social backing, and strategies for maintaining weight loss—the emotional high may fade over time. Also adapting to body image changes such as having loose skin after weight loss and managing expectations are important for sustaining self-confidence post-surgery.

Moving Forward

Bariatric surgery offers a strong boost in self-esteem during the first year, especially for those who lose significant weight. But real improvement requires continuous focus on psychological resilience.