Longitudinal Study of the Psychological Impact of Bariatric Surgery

Psychological Impact of Bariatric Surgery in Patients With Morbid Obesity: a Longitudinal Study Protocol

This prospective observational study evaluates the effect of bariatric surgery on mental health and hair cortisol in patients with morbid obesity over a 3-year follow-up. Assessments will be performed before surgery and at 1 month, 1 year, 2 years, and 3 years to analyze psychological changes, weight changes, and the need for psychological support.

Objective: To evaluate the impact of bariatric surgery on mental health and hair cortisol concentrations in patients with morbid obesity over a 3-year follow-up.

Methods: This is a prospective observational study in candidates for bariatric surgery. Assessments will include sociodemographic data, anthropometric measures, clinical, nutritional and lifestyle variables, hair cortisol concentrations, and psychological variables, including psychopathological symptoms, stress levels, impulsivity, emotional eating, and health-related quality of life. Evaluations will be performed at five time points: preoperative (T0), 1 month (T1), 1 year (T2), 2 years (T3), and 3 years (T4). The study will describe psychological and weight changes after surgery and identify possible needs for psychological support before surgery and during mid- and long-term follow-up.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Men and women aged 18 to 70 years who are candidates for gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, or single-anastomosis duodeno-ileal bypass (SADI-S), with a body mass index of at least 40 kg/m² or at least 35 kg/m² with comorbidities, and who are able to provide informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients with previous bariatric surgery and pregnant women during follow-up will be excluded.