When most people talk about bariatric surgery, they talk about the surgery itself, pounds lost, clothing sizes, and improved health markers. But for many people, the most profound changes happen beneath the surface.
Your bariatric surgery journey not only reshapes your body, but it can also reshape your life. It can transform your emotions, habits, identity, and even your relationships with food and yourself.
Board-certified general surgeon Dr. Mikhail A. Botvinov knows that understanding the mental and emotional side of bariatric surgery is just as important as preparing for the physical procedure.
In that spirit, read on to learn more about the mental and emotional side of bariatric surgery here at Bergen Bariatric and Surgical Solutions.
In the months leading up to bariatric surgery, you may experience a mix of excitement, hope, fear, and even uncertainty. You may feel motivated about improving your health while also grieving old coping mechanisms or worrying about how life will change after surgery.
All of these feelings are normal. You may find that journaling helps you process your thoughts and your feelings.
This is also why preoperative mental health screenings are part of the bariatric process. These steps help make sure you’re emotionally prepared, have realistic expectations, and are equipped with tools to navigate change, not just weight loss.
After surgery, our team prepares you for a smooth physical recovery. We guide you on incision care, how to eat safely and comfortably, and whether vitamin supplementation is needed to support healing.
Here’s what you can expect regarding your mental and emotional journey:
After bariatric surgery, food no longer plays the same role it once did, and that’s okay. That’s good.
Your portions are smaller, your hunger cues change, and emotional eating may surface in new ways. While many people feel empowered, others may feel frustrated or even mourn the comfort that food once provided.
Learning new coping strategies, such as stress management, mindful eating, or behavioral therapy, can help replace your old habits with healthier ones. For example, after a stressful day at work, you may go for a walk in the park rather than ordering take-out.
Weight loss can bring confidence, improved mobility, and better health, but it can also trigger unexpected emotions. Some people feel joy in their new lease on life, while others experience anxiety, mood changes, or body image challenges as their appearance changes rapidly.
You may also notice mood changes if you’re low in certain nutrients, especially vitamin B or vitamin D. These deficiencies are common after bariatric surgery but can usually be corrected with proper supplementation.
If Dr. Botinov recommends a specific supplement, it’s important to take it exactly as directed. And if you’re feeling unusually low, anxious, or not quite like yourself, let him know. Your emotional health is just as important as your physical recovery.
As your body and lifestyle change, so can your relationships. Friends and family may react differently, some with encouragement, others with confusion or concern. Some may not understand your new lifestyle or new eating habits.
You may find that setting boundaries, communicating openly, and seeking support can help you navigate these shifts with confidence.
Sustainable weight loss isn’t just about surgery or the numbers dropping on the scale. Sustainable weight loss requires ongoing emotional support, accountability, and self-compassion.
People who address both the mental and physical aspects of bariatric surgery are more likely to maintain results and enjoy a higher quality of life.
At Bergen Bariatric and Surgical Solutions P.C., Dr. Botinov and his team understand that bariatric surgery is a whole-person journey. By supporting both your physical health and emotional well-being, we help you build lasting change, inside and out.
Because true transformation goes beyond the scale.
Questions about bariatric surgery? Call 201-731-6919 or click here to schedule an appointment online.
