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Psychological Contraindications for Bariatric Surgery: What You Need to Know
Before undergoing gastric sleeve surgery or any form of bariatric surgery, patients must undergo a thorough psychological evaluation. This step helps identify any mental health conditions or behavioral patterns that could negatively affect surgery outcomes or the ability to maintain long-term weight loss.
Certain psychological contraindications may delay or disqualify a person from having bariatric surgery, or require treatment and monitoring before proceeding.
🚫 Common Psychological Contraindications for Bariatric Surgery
1. Active Substance Abuse or Dependence
Individuals currently struggling with alcohol or drug abuse may be considered unfit for surgery. Substance dependence can interfere with:
- Post-operative healing
- Adherence to dietary changes
- Long-term emotional stability
Surgery may be reconsidered after a period of sobriety and successful rehabilitation.
2. Severe Untreated Psychiatric Illness
Conditions such as major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or other serious psychiatric illnesses may be contraindications, particularly if symptoms are:
- Unstable
- Untreated
- Interfering with daily functioning
Patients with a well-managed diagnosis may still qualify with support from a mental health professional.
3. Inability to Commit to Lifestyle Changes
Bariatric surgery requires lifelong changes in eating habits, physical activity, and mindset. Individuals who:
- Are unwilling to follow post-op guidelines
- Do not understand the necessary commitment
- Lack motivation or insight into their behaviors
...may struggle to maintain long-term success.
4. Unrealistic Expectations
Believing that surgery is a “quick fix” or expecting dramatic, instant transformations may lead to:
- Disappointment
- Emotional distress
- Risk of noncompliance with follow-up care
A clear understanding of realistic, achievable goals is essential.
5. Inadequate Social Support
Support from family, friends, or community plays a major role in recovery and adjustment. A lack of social support may lead to:
- Increased emotional isolation
- Poor dietary adherence
- Missed follow-up appointments
Your care team may help you build a support network before surgery is approved.
6. Active Eating Disorders
Conditions such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia, or binge eating disorder must be carefully evaluated. These disorders can:
- Re-emerge post-surgery
- Be worsened by restrictive eating plans
- Lead to severe nutritional deficiencies
Management or stabilization of disordered eating is necessary before considering surgery.
🧠 Why a Psychological Evaluation Is Essential
Every patient at CosmetoCity undergoes a pre-operative psychological assessment. This evaluation helps:
- Identify mental health conditions that require care
- Strengthen emotional resilience
- Prepare the patient for life after surgery
- Improve long-term weight loss outcomes
Rather than denying surgery outright, the goal is to create a safe, individualized treatment plan that ensures your physical and emotional health are fully supported.
💶 Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Turkey – Just €3,000
At CosmetoCity, we offer gastric sleeve surgery in Antalya and Istanbul for only €3,000. Your all-inclusive package ensures you're cared for — mentally and physically — every step of the way.
Our package includes:
- 🏥 Surgery, anesthesia & hospital stay
- 🧪 Pre-op testing, including psychological evaluation
- 🏨 Hotel accommodation & VIP airport transfers
- 💊 Post-op medications & diet planning
- 💬 English-speaking support team
- 📞 Lifetime aftercare & emotional wellness support
✅ Final Thoughts
Understanding and addressing psychological contraindications before bariatric surgery is key to long-term success. With the right preparation, support, and guidance, most challenges can be overcome — leading to a healthier, happier life after surgery.
📞 Considering gastric sleeve surgery?
Contact CosmetoCity today for a free consultation, and let us help you prepare emotionally, mentally, and physically for your weight loss journey.