Obesity is at epidemic levels in the US, ranking as the top leading cause of preventable death, according to a Cleveland study. To combat the epidemic, the medical industry continues to come up with interventions, including Ozempic and bariatric surgery, which also help with the remission of obesity-related diseases. Read on for a simple comparison of Ozempic vs bariatric surgery.
Bariatric Surgery Vs. Ozempic
While Ozempic medications exhibit significant results, they still fall short compared to bariatric surgery outcomes. Bariatric surgery patients report greater weight loss with up to 2–3 times the weight on average than those on Ozempic. Bariatric surgery has proven effective in reducing mortality and reversing obesity-related conditions like heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
Ozempic works like the digestive hormone GLP-1, which is critical in boosting insulin levels, slowing the stomach emptying process, and increasing the satiety feeling. Depending on the procedure per the doctor’s recommendations, bariatric surgery patients will lose up to 35% of their body weight and up to 70% of their excess weight. On the other hand, an Ozempic medication patient will lose about 20% of their total body weight.
Can You Combine Ozempic and Bariatric Surgery?
Ozempic vs. weight loss surgery function independently, but certain instances necessitate both treatments. For instance, a patient weighing over 500 pounds will benefit from medical management, like Ozempic, before surgery, decreasing their surgery-related risks.
The benefits of combining Ozempic and weight loss surgery include:
- Enhanced weight loss compared to either option on their own
- Improved blood sugar in persons with type 2 diabetes
- Reduced risks of cardiovascular events
- Complementary to exercise and diet for a healthier lifestyle
What Should I Consider For Weight Loss?
Figuring out whether Ozempic vs. bariatric surgery suits your needs can be challenging, as there are no shortcuts to weight loss. Also, your long-term weight loss depends on the effort you put into your diet and exercise. Therefore, whether you go for Ozempic or bariatric surgery depends on the amount of weight you want to lose, preexisting health conditions, whether you are open to surgery, and the financial investment you are willing to take on the procedure.
Bottomline
Bariatric surgery is an effective way to manage weight loss through the reset of the metabolic system. Ozempic weight loss therapy, on the other hand, is subject to the duration the individual takes the drug such that they will regain the lost weight once they stop taking their medication. If you are struggling with weight loss through behavioral changes, pharmaceuticals, diet, or exercise, consider consulting with Dr. Jalil Illan for your options in Tijuana for bariatric surgery.
