Mariah Carey has mesmerized fans for decades with her five-octave vocal range and flashy persona but recently, her drastic weight loss hit the news. The Grammy winner has reportedly lost over 30 pounds, the difference of an entire season of “The Voice,” but some reports suggest more than 40 pounds thanks to gastric sleeve surgery (not to mention some recent buttock reduction)!
But is surgery the entire story? In this blog, we will cover everything we can find out about Mariah Carey’s weight loss experience, including the emotional aspects, expert opinions on her surgical procedure, and what it really takes to lose weight safely.
Why Did Mariah Carey Decide to Have Surgery to Lose Weight?
Behind the glitz, the glamour, and the gluttony, Mariah Carey has reportedly had issues with her body.
According to sources who appreciate her size, Mariah was troubled with self-image, often wearing clothes that did not disclose size; she would have worn an evening dress, ”that is large enough that nobody would have known,” just to avoid the question of size.
She was reportedly “extremely self-conscious” when faced with public appearances, and she turned to a way to solve her problems for good.
“She always fluctuated in weight and was feeling insecure lately, so she turned to a more permanent solution,” said an unnamed source, cited in Page Six.
What is gastric sleeve surgery?
Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, is a surgical procedure in which a significant portion of the stomach is removed leaving a “sleeve”, much like the shape of a banana. This process restricts food intake while also modifying certain hunger hormones in the stomach which results in rapid weight loss.
Benefits of gastric sleeve surgery.
Rapid weight loss
Better metabolic health
Reduction in hunger hormones
Improved self-esteem and energy levels
How much weight did Mariah Carey lose?
While Mariah has not confirmed a number, and there are various estimates, tabloids state:
Estimated loss of 30 to 40+ pounds.
A very dramatic transformation in her red carpet appearances, and live performances.
Fans absolutely noticed her waist was smaller and her confidence was through the roof.
What else was Mariah doing besides rotating in and out of the surgery?
Many factors can contribute to success after surgery, and news outlets purportedly reported that Mariah has made key lifestyle changes that aided and supported her transformation:
Healthy Eats
Eating smaller portions with better nutritious foods
Low-carb high-protein-based meals
Lots of water
Fitness and Movement
Light cardio, and dancing during rehearsals
Strength training & a variety of low-impact activities
Mental Well-Being
Therapy & emotional support for self-image issues
Deflected poisonous media narratives
Let’s be real: Is weight loss surgery for everybody?
Not at all. Although Mariah’s experience sounds glamorous, weight loss surgery is a serious medical procedure, and there are risks.
Consider This Before Going Under the Knife:
Have you tried diet and exercise for at least 6–12 months?
Are you considering the surgery because you are medically eligible (BMI 35+ with comorbidities,)?
Are you mentally ready for a lifestyle change?
Be sure to speak to a board-certified bariatric surgeon before making your decision.
Final Thoughts: More Than Just a Body Transformation
Mariah Carey’s weight loss journey shows us just how personal health can be. Whether surgery is the best route for you or making changes to your sustainable lifestyle, just remember that Mariah’s transformation challenges us to take our health seriously (physically and mentally).
FAQs
1. Did Mariah Carey confirm her weight loss surgery?
No, Mariah has not confirmed publicly, but several unofficial reports and sources suggest she had gastric sleeve surgery in 2017.
2. How much weight did Mariah Carey lose?
Weight amounts vary significantly from 30 to over 40 pounds, on an estimated physical change, and reports with sources claiming she’s lost over that amount.
3. Is gastric sleeve surgery safe?
Yes, as with any surgery performed by a qualified medical professional and proper aftercare typically offered; it’s one of the safest bariatric surgeries available.
4. Did Mariah Carey change her diet too?
Yes, the sources further suggest she is now on a planned portion-controlled, high-protein diet with low fat and sugar.
