Psychological Evaluation of the Post Bariatric Patient
Michael C. Cheung, Brian J. Allan, Vishnu Chahwala, Nestor de la Cruz-Muñoz
- Many patients experience complex emotions about their new body after weight loss, including concerns about excess skin and adjusting to a new self-image. This chapter guides providers on evaluating and supporting patients through these transitions.
- Before body contouring surgery, a psychological evaluation ensures realistic expectations, stable mental health, and adequate support systems.
- Dr. de la Cruz-Muñoz contributed three chapters to this textbook, reflecting his comprehensive approach to bariatric patient care.
- This demonstrates that Dr. de la Cruz-Muñoz takes emotional and psychological aspects of weight loss seriously, not just physical results.
This book chapter provides a comprehensive review of the psychological evaluation process for patients who have undergone bariatric surgery and are seeking body contouring or reconstructive procedures. Topics include body image concerns following massive weight loss, the psychological impact of excess skin, screening for psychiatric conditions, assessment of realistic expectations, evaluation of coping mechanisms, and the role of the multidisciplinary team in ensuring psychological readiness for additional procedures.
About This Chapter
Part of the textbook Cosmetic Surgery After Massive Weight Loss (JP Medical, London, 2012), this chapter guides plastic surgeons and other clinicians in evaluating the emotional readiness of patients who want body contouring after bariatric surgery. It is one of three chapters Dr. de la Cruz-Muñoz contributed to the book.
What the Chapter Covers
- Body image after massive weight loss, including the distress excess skin can cause.
- Screening for depression, anxiety and other psychiatric conditions.
- Assessing whether expectations for contouring surgery are realistic.
- Evaluating coping skills and support systems.
- The role of a multidisciplinary team in deciding when a patient is ready for further surgery.
What This Means for Patients
Many patients are surprised that losing weight does not instantly change how they see themselves. Excess skin and a changing body image are common and valid concerns. Our article on loose skin after weight-loss surgery explains what helps, and our guide Mental Health, Body Image, and Alcohol After Bariatric Surgery covers the emotional side of weight loss.
Expert Commentary
Weight loss changes how patients look long before it changes how they see themselves. Before any patient moves on to body contouring, it is important that they are emotionally ready and have realistic goals. This chapter was about helping surgeons ask the right questions.
— Dr. Nestor de la Cruz-Muñoz
Cheung MC, Allan BJ, Chahwala V, de la Cruz-Muñoz N. Psychological Evaluation of the Post Bariatric Patient. In: Thaller SR, ed. Cosmetic Surgery After Massive Weight Loss. London: JP Medical Ltd; 2012.
