Impact of bariatric surgery on body image perception and sexuality in morbidly obese patients and their partners

Background: This study was undertaken to determine whether surgery for morbid obesity affects sexual attitudes and performance in patients and their partners. Methods: Questionnaires concerning sexuality were sent to 94 patients who underwent gastric restriction procedures and their partners. Twenty-eight patients at least 1 year post-operatively (range of 1-11 years, mean 4.2 years +/- 3.24 SD) and 16 of their partners responded, The blinded questionnaires addressed the enjoyment and frequency of sexual intercourse, orgasms, body image, number of partners, abuse, sexual problems and masturbation. Comparisons were made before and after surgery. Patient answers were compared with their partners. Results: Preoperatively, 64% of patients stated that they enjoyed sexual intercourse, Postoperatively, 50% of patients and 78% of partners stated that they enjoyed sex more. Improved orgasms were noted by 44% of patients and 40% partners after surgery. Improvement in body image was also achieved, Only 27% of patients felt they were attractive before surgery, while 80% felt they were more attractive after surgery; 94% of their partners agreed, While 48% of patients undressed in darkness in front of their partners before surgery, only 27% did so after surgery. Conclusions: Weight loss attained through bariatric surgery improves body image and sexuality. Sexual intercourse and orgasms are improved postoperatively both for patient and partner.