Background <p>Metabolic bariatric surgery has become a central strategy for obesity management, showing potential to improve both physical and mental health outcomes. This study aimed to analyze publication trends in metabolic bariatric surgery and mental health, identify leading countries, institutions, authors, and collaborations, and reveal key hotspots and future research directions.</p> Methods <p>A bibliometric analysis of publications spanning 1998 to 2024 was performed. Key bibliometric indicators including publication, citation counts, and collaborative networks. Network structures and cluster clarity were measured using modularity Q and weighted mean silhouette. Data visualization tools mapped emerging research themes and highlight leading contributors.</p> Results <p>Our study revealed a steady increase in publications and citations related to metabolic bariatric surgery and mental health from 1998 to 2024. The USA led in document count, citations, and international collaboration, with prominent institutions like the University of Pittsburgh contributing significantly to the field. The top journals were Obesity Surgery, and Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases, while the most cited articles were by Adams TD (2007) and Schauer PR (2017). Keyword trends shifted from surgical techniques to the psychological impacts of metabolic bariatric surgery, with terms like morbid obesity, gastric bypass, and mental health remaining central, while newer areas like cardiovascular risks and long-term outcomes emerged as new hotspots.</p> Conclusions <p>Bibliometric trends demonstrate growth but underscore challenges in global research access. Future research should address methodological issues and healthcare disparities, with a focus on standardizing training, clinical trials, and outcomes. Promising study areas include eating and alcohol-related disorders, cardiovascular, and long-term psychological health.</p>