Weight loss surgery is considered the most effective option for losing and maintaining weight loss, according to researchers. GLP-1 drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy can help individuals lose weight, but weight often returns once the medications are stopped. Researchers found that individuals who underwent bariatric surgery weighed 25% less than before their operation even 10 years after the surgery. This was a more significant and sustained weight loss compared to GLP-1 medications, as reported at the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery’s 2024 Annual Scientific Meeting.
Systematic reviews of studies published between 2020 and 2024 revealed that bariatric surgery outperformed GLP-1 agonists in terms of weight loss and sustained time. Lifestyle interventions like diet and exercise led to an average weight loss of 7% of body weight, but weight was typically regained within about 4 years. GLP-1 medications and weight loss surgery were deemed superior to lifestyle interventions by the researchers. Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding, chief of bariatric surgery at NYU Langone Health, emphasized that genetic makeup often plays a role in the inability of diet and exercise to work for most individuals who are obese.
Studies looked at the effectiveness of various treatments for obesity, showing that semaglutide and tirzepatide led to body weight losses of 10% and 21%, respectively, after several weeks of injections. However, about half of the weight returned once treatment stopped for both drugs. In contrast, weight loss surgery resulted in substantial weight loss, with individuals who underwent gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy experiencing almost 32% and 29% total weight loss respectively one year post-surgery. The weight loss was maintained at about 25% even up to 10 years after surgery, demonstrating the long-term benefits of metabolic and bariatric surgery.
Experts such as Dr. Mir Ali and Dr. Mitchell Roslin agree that bariatric surgery is the most effective and durable treatment for obesity, with long-term benefits lasting up to 15 years or more. While GLP-1 medications may provide an alternative for some individuals unable to undergo surgery, they can lead to weight regain once treatment stops. Additionally, lifestyle changes are crucial to maintaining weight loss even after surgery. Anne Danahy, a registered dietitian, emphasizes the importance of permanent diet and lifestyle changes after weight loss surgery to prevent weight regain.
GLP-1 agonists like Ozempic and Wegovy are used to treat obesity and diabetes by managing hunger and lowering glucose levels. They are typically injectables, with some taken once a week while semaglutide is available as a daily tablet. However, Dr. Ren-Fielding notes that while these medications are effective for moderate weight loss, they may not be as effective for individuals who need to lose substantial weight. Insurance coverage and cost are also considerations for these medications, with some people regaining half their weight once they stop taking the medications due to a return of hunger.
Selecting the best weight loss strategy depends on factors such as health conditions, weight loss goals, and health history. Consulting a healthcare professional for an evaluation and discussing options is crucial when choosing bariatric surgery, a GLP-1 drug, or lifestyle changes. While bariatric surgery offers significant and lasting weight loss, lifelong commitment to diet and lifestyle changes is necessary for successful outcomes. Overall, the decision on the most appropriate weight loss strategy should be based on individual needs and goals, considering factors like BMI, treatment efficacy, potential drawbacks, and sustainability. Obesity is a chronic disease that affects a significant portion of the population in the United States, highlighting the importance of effective weight loss interventions to improve overall health and quality of life.
