With the advent of powerful weight loss medications such as GLP-1 receptor agonists like Semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic) and the recently approved GLP-1/GIP agonist Tirzepatide (Zepbound, Mounjaro), the landscape of obesity treatment is evolving. This raises the question: does the popularity of these medications diminish the role of bariatric surgery?
Medication Breakthroughs:
The approval of Zepbound and Tirzepatide for weight loss has revolutionized obesity management. A study reveals an impressive 25% average weight loss after 88 weeks of Tirzepatide use (source: SURMOUNT-4 trial, published in JAMA). Meanwhile, Wegovy, powered by Semaglutide, boasts a 15% average weight loss, with half of users experiencing more than 15% total body weight loss (source: STEP1 trial, published in NEJM).
Bariatric Surgery Options:
Bariatric and metabolic surgeries, such as Gastric Sleeve and Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass, go beyond weight loss. These procedures effectively address conditions like diabetes, sleep apnea, blood pressure, and cholesterol. The choice of surgery depends on individual health factors and weight loss goals. Gastric Sleeve offers a notable 20% weight loss in the first year, while Gastric Bypass achieves an impressive 32% total body weight loss within one year and maintains a 20% total body weight loss over a decade.
Sustainability and Considerations:
Metabolic and bariatric surgery remains a sustainable option for managing chronic medical conditions. Not only is it cost-effective in the long term compared to GLP-1 medications, but some individuals may also have contraindications or intolerances to these medications. Additionally, some surgeries provide more substantial weight loss, and a personalized approach may involve a combination of surgery and medications to achieve optimal health goals.
Conclusion:
In the grand scheme, metabolic and bariatric surgery retains its significance as a crucial treatment option for obesity and its associated medical conditions. It is vital to engage in discussions with your medical team to determine the best treatment or combination of treatments tailored to your unique health journey.
For more information on various bariatric surgery types, refer to the American Board of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery’s website: https://asmbs.org.
Author
Dr. Suneye Koohsari is a Diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine and is committed to helping patients lose weight and improve their health by empowering them with education. She practices in midtown NYCÂ at her private practice Manhattan Medical Weight Loss.