Eating Disorders in the Context of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery: Current Status and Future Directions

Eating disorders (EDs) are a relatively uncommon yet salient concern for patients undergoing metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS). This report aims to advance understanding of the complex relationship between EDs and MBS by highlighting recent empirical evidence and identifying areas for future research.

Little-to-no empirical evidence suggests that EDs be considered an absolute contraindication for MBS. However, a small subset of patients experience recurrent or emergent ED symptoms following surgery, invariably resulting in poorer postsurgical outcomes. Plausibly, a confluence of psychosocial and neurobiological mechanisms explains post-MBS ED symptoms. Accurate identification of MBS-related ED concerns is essential, with growing evidence suggesting structured postsurgical treatment may be optimal. Despite recent advances, more research on EDs in the context of MBS is needed, including rigorous mechanistic studies with long-term follow-up that clarify how predisposing factors interact to precipitate postsurgical ED symptoms. More work is also required to inform design and dissemination of targeted ED interventions for patients pursuing MBS.