Using virtual reality to improve body image after bariatric surgery

Impact of the Use of Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy on Body Image After Bariatric Surgery

NA · University Hospital, Bordeaux · NCT05460104

This study is testing if virtual reality therapy can help people feel better about their body image after having weight loss surgery.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment30 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Hospital, Bordeaux (other)
Locations2 sites (Libourne and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05460104 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy (VERT) in enhancing body image satisfaction among patients who have undergone bariatric surgery and are experiencing body image dissatisfaction. Participants will be assessed at 12 months post-intervention to determine the impact of VERT compared to standard follow-up care. The approach utilizes immersive virtual environments to help patients integrate their new body image and identity. Previous smaller studies have shown promise, but this study aims to provide more robust evidence with a larger sample size and longer follow-up.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients who have undergone bariatric surgery and are in the weight stabilization phase, experiencing dissatisfaction with their body image.

Not a fit: Patients with motion sickness from virtual reality use, those who have had reconstructive surgery post-bariatric surgery, or those with certain psychiatric conditions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly improve body image satisfaction and overall quality of life for patients after bariatric surgery.

How similar studies have performed: While previous case reports have indicated positive outcomes with virtual reality therapy in similar contexts, this study represents a more rigorous approach to validate those findings.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
* inclusion criteria: patients who underwent bariatric surgery in the weight stabilization phase (between 18 and 30 months after surgery) presenting dissatisfaction with their body image according to the BSQ (score ≥ 111), to be affiliated to the French social security system. The prior, free and informed consent of the patient shall be obtained.
* exclusion criteria: patients with disabling nausea (Motion Sickness) from previous use of a virtual reality headset, patients who had from post-bariatric reconstructive surgery, epileptic patients, decompensation of a psychiatric pathology

Where this trial is running

Libourne and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Obesity, Bariatric Surgery Candidate, Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy, Body image, Dysmorphophobia

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.