Weight Loss Surgery vs GLP-1 medications. What recent study shows.
In recent years, weight loss medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy, Mounjaro, Saxenda and now also other have gained significant popularity, offering a new approach to obesity treatment.
As we closely follow the latest scientific evidence, it is clear that while these medications can be effective for selected patients under proper medical supervision, bariatric surgery remains the most effective and long-term solution for treating severe obesity and related conditions such as Type 2 diabetes, Hypertension, Sleep apnea, and joint or back problems.
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A large
real-world study found that patients who underwent bariatric surgery achieved up to five times greater weight loss after two years compared to those using weight-loss injections such as semaglutide or tirzepatide.
Average results after 2 years – Weight Loss Surgery vs GLP-1 medications:
– Bariatric surgery: 24% total body weight loss
– GLP-1 medications: 4.7%–7% total body weight loss
It is worth noting that clinical trials show weight loss between 15% to 21% for GLP-1s, but this study suggests that weight loss in the real world is considerably lower even for patients who have active prescriptions for an entire year. “We know as many as 70% of patients may discontinue treatment within one year,” said lead study author Avery Brown, MD, a surgical resident at NYU Langone Health. “GLP-1 patients may need to adjust their expectations, adhere more closely to treatment or opt for metabolic and bariatric surgery to achieve desired results.”
“While both patient groups lose weight, metabolic and bariatric surgery is much more effective and durable,” said ASMBS President Ann M. Rogers, MD, FACS, FASMBS, who was not involved in the study. “Those who get insufficient weight loss with GLP-1s or have challenges complying with treatment due to side effects or costs, should consider bariatric surgery as an option or even in combination.”
* In this study researchers compared the outcomes of 51,085 GLP-1 and surgical patients.
Conclusion:
Bariatric surgery remains the one-time and most effective and durable treatment for obesity, helping not only with weight loss but mainly improving conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart and overall health.
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🔹 GLP-1 medications are drugs that mimic a natural hormone (GLP-1) that helps regulate appetite and blood sugar. They work by slowing stomach emptying, reducing hunger, and increasing feelings of fullness, which leads to lower calorie intake and weight loss. While they can be effective for some patients, it is important to be aware of potential side effects and complications. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea or constipation, and abdominal discomfort. In some cases, more significant complications may occur, such as gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying) and bowel obstruction, pancreatitis, muscle loss if nutrition is inadequate, changes in vision (particularly in patients with diabetes), and longer-term nutritional or metabolic issues, which is why medical supervision is essential.
🔹 Bariatric surgery is a well developed medical treatment for obesity that works by reducing the size of the stomach and, in some procedures, altering digestion. This helps patients feel full with smaller portions, reduce hunger, and achieve significant, sustained weight loss. The main goals are not only weight reduction, but also prevention, improvement or resolution of obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and joint problems, as well as overall quality of life.
Benefits of bariatric surgery include long-term and effective weight loss, improved metabolic health, increased mobility, and better quality of life.
As with any general surgery, there are risks, including bleeding, infection, blood clots, leakage from surgical connections, and potential nutritional deficiencies, which is why careful patient selection, experienced surgeons, and long-term follow-up are essential.
🔹 Both GLP-1 medications and bariatric surgery should be seen as tools for treating obesity, with bariatric surgery offering a one-time, long-lasting solution; however, both approaches require proper medical guidance and a long-term commitment to lifestyle and mindset changes.
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Weight Loss Latvia provides safe
bariatric surgery at an EU certified general hospital by the leading bariatric team of Latvia.
If you are considering a lasting weight loss tool for your better health and life, reach out to us via
Weight Loss Latvia website or a private msg –
ilva@weightlosslatvia.com
+371 29148884
