Early Impact of Bariatric Surgery on Brain Functionality

Obesity is a chronic inflammatory disease with an alarming number of cases recorded, becoming a global public health problem. Thus, an increasing number of eligible individuals choose to undergo metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS), known for its effective results in weight reduction and improvement of metabolic conditions. Despite reversing the damage to the central nervous system caused by obesity, these procedures also present neuronal complications. Therefore, in this review, we explore the early impact of MBS on the brain of postoperative patients, with effects observed up to 6 months after surgery, covering hormonal changes, reward mechanisms, as well as influence on mood and mental health. Although improvements in mood and quality of life are reported, the early postoperative phases can be marked by emotional vulnerability, nutritional deficiencies, and psychiatric complications. These findings highlight the benefits and risks associated with MBS, underscoring the need for interventions to maintain quality of life in the postoperative period.