When to Consider Bariatric Surgery After Long-Term Use of Weight Loss Injections

By Olde Del Mar Surgical

GLP-1 weight loss injections like semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Zepbound) have changed the landscape of obesity treatment. These medications have helped thousands of patients lose weight by reducing appetite, improving blood sugar control, and supporting better portion control. However, long-term use of weight loss injections is not always a permanent solution. For some, the progress stalls, side effects increase, or the financial burden becomes unsustainable.

If you’ve been on GLP-1 medications for an extended period and still want to lose more weight or maintain your results, it may be time to consider bariatric surgery. At Olde Del Mar Surgical, we work closely with patients who are navigating the decision between continuing medication and pursuing surgical options.

What Are GLP-1 Weight Loss Injections?

GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide and tirzepatide mimic a hormone that regulates appetite and insulin. These medications are highly effective for many patients with obesity or type 2 diabetes. Popular brands include:

• Wegovy (semaglutide)
• Ozempic (semaglutide, primarily for diabetes)
• Zepbound (tirzepatide)
• Mounjaro (tirzepatide, primarily for diabetes)

While these medications can lead to substantial initial weight loss, they may not be the right long-term solution for everyone.

Limitations of Long-Term Weight Loss Injections

1. Weight Loss Plateaus

Most patients experience the most dramatic weight loss within the first 6 to 12 months. Over time, the body adapts, and the results may level off even with continued use.

2. Weight Regain After Stopping

Clinical research shows that many patients regain most of their lost weight once they stop using the injections. This highlights the importance of a long-term plan for weight management beyond medication.

3. High Cost and Insurance Challenges

Without insurance, GLP-1 medications can cost between $900 and $1,300 per month. Even with insurance, ongoing coverage is not guaranteed. This can make lifelong use financially unrealistic for many patients.

4. Side Effects and Tolerance

Nausea, fatigue, digestive upset, and decreased appetite can be difficult to manage long term. If side effects are interfering with your quality of life, surgery may be a better option.

When Should You Consider Bariatric Surgery?

If you are taking weight loss injections and considering a more permanent solution, here are some signs that bariatric surgery may be right for you:

You Still Have a High BMI

A Body Mass Index (BMI) of 35 or higher, especially with conditions like diabetes or sleep apnea, may qualify you for bariatric surgery. A BMI of 40 or above typically qualifies even without other medical issues.

You Have Hit a Weight Loss Plateau

If your weight loss has stalled despite lifestyle changes and medication, surgery can provide the necessary metabolic shift to break through that plateau.

You Want a Long-Term Weight Loss Solution

Bariatric surgery is designed to help patients lose a significant amount of weight and keep it off for the long term. For many, it eliminates the need for chronic medication use.

You Are Experiencing Side Effects from Injections

If medication-related side effects are persistent or intolerable, surgery may be a safer, more effective approach to achieving your goals.

Why Bariatric Surgery Is More Effective Long-Term

A 2025 real-world study of more than 50,000 patients compared outcomes between those who used GLP-1 medications and those who underwent bariatric surgery. The findings were clear:

• Patients who had bariatric surgery lost more weight
• Surgical patients were more likely to maintain their weight loss long term
• Surgery had greater metabolic benefits for conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure

These results align with what we see at Olde Del Mar Surgical. Bariatric surgery is still the most effective long-term treatment for obesity.

Types of Bariatric Surgery

At Olde Del Mar Surgical, we offer several types of weight loss surgery to fit your individual needs:

Gastric Sleeve (Sleeve Gastrectomy)

• Removes about 80% of the stomach
• Reduces appetite and hunger hormone production
• Quick recovery time and strong weight loss results

Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y)

• Creates a small stomach pouch and bypasses part of the small intestine
• Reduces calorie absorption and hunger
• Excellent for patients with diabetes or severe reflux

Duodenal Switch (and Variations)

• Combines a sleeve with intestinal bypass
• Offers the highest potential weight loss
• Ideal for patients with very high BMI

Each procedure has its own benefits and risks. We will help you choose the option that aligns with your goals, medical history, and lifestyle.

Can I Use Both Injections and Surgery?

Yes. Many patients use weight loss injections before or after surgery for additional support.

• Pre-surgery: Medications can help reduce surgical risk by lowering weight and improving blood pressure or glucose levels.
• Post-surgery: If weight loss slows down or mild regain occurs, injections can help reinforce healthy habits and keep weight off.

We view surgery and medications as tools that can work together, not as competing choices.

What to Expect During a Bariatric Consultation

At Olde Del Mar Surgical, our process is designed to help you feel informed and supported from the beginning. Your consultation includes:

• Full medical and weight history review
• Evaluation of your experience with GLP-1 injections
• Discussion of all bariatric surgery options
• Explanation of insurance coverage and self-pay options
• Access to a supportive care team including dietitians and behavioral health professionals

This is a no-pressure, informative meeting. Our goal is to help you understand your options and take the next best step.

Questions to Ask Yourself

If you are unsure whether to move from medication to surgery, consider the following:

• Am I happy with my current weight loss progress?
• Do I want to avoid long-term dependence on medication?
• Can I afford the cost of injections over the next few years?
• Am I experiencing any health problems related to my weight?
• Do I want a more permanent solution that supports lifelong health?

If you answered yes to two or more of these, it may be time to talk with a bariatric specialist.

Why Choose Olde Del Mar Surgical?

We are proud to offer advanced, personalized bariatric care in Southern California. Our team has decades of experience and a passion for helping patients reclaim their health through surgical weight loss options.

We provide:

• Expert surgical care in a state-of-the-art facility
• One-on-one support through every stage of the journey
• Nutrition, lifestyle, and mental health resources for long-term success
• A compassionate, experienced team who truly listens

Take the Next Step

If weight loss injections are no longer giving you the results you want, bariatric surgery may be the right path forward. It is not a sign of failure. It is a proactive, evidence-based choice for your future health.

Contact Olde Del Mar Surgical today to schedule your consultation. We are here to answer your questions, guide your next steps, and help you build a future where your health and confidence are back in your control.