Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery vs. Weight Loss Medications

Obesity is not your fault and not yours to manage alone. It is a disease and a health concern that affects an estimated 93 million Americans. Environmental and genetic factors can cause a person to gain unhealthy amounts of weight that dieting alone cannot control. The good news is that we have obesity medicine physicians who can provide you with surgical and non-surgical weight loss procedures to help you regain your strength and live a healthy life. It’s not too late. Take your first step towards better health today.

Can an Obese Person Lose Weight Without Surgery?

Although some people can improve their lifestyle and lose weight by themselves, others may need extra help from an obesity medicine physician. A patient needs to be thoroughly evaluated to assess whether weight loss procedures without surgery may be enough to produce good outcomes for him or her. Otherwise, the patient may be recommended to undergo weight loss surgery.

Body mass index (BMI) is a tool healthcare providers use to classify a person’s weight related to his or her height. Weight is categorized as:

While BMI is widely used, there are other ways your doctor can diagnose obesity and its extent. Excess body fat can take a toll on your body and decrease your quality of life, putting you at risk for developing other health problems. Obesity-related conditions include:

• Cancer
• Diabetes
• Gallbladder disease
• Heartburn
• Heart disease
• High cholesterol
• High blood pressure
• Osteoarthritis
• Psychological depression
• Sleep apnea
• Stroke

How To Lose Weight Without Exercise

While exercise is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle, some people with mobility restrictions or certain conditions may find it challenging to engage in physical activities for weight loss. Fortunately, there are other healthy and effective ways to reach your weight loss goals without intense exercise—often by making simple changes to your diet and lifestyle. A reasonable weight loss is one to two pounds per week. If a weight loss option claims more, avoid it. For starters, the following may help you lose excessive weight:

• Keep track of your food and drink consumption. Increase awareness of your habits and choices so you can modify them as necessary.
• Consult with a healthcare provider on nutrition and diet plan customized for your condition and needs to help you continue and maintain your goals.
• Join support groups that can motivate you to pursue your weight loss journey.

The following are commercial weight loss options that may work for you, but make sure to consult your doctor first before proceeding with any of the following:

• Community-based programs such as TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Club Inc. and YMCA Diabetes Prevention Program
• Nutrition-tracking apps
• Health coaches
• Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines
• Meal-replacement systems
• Diet books
• Body monitoring devices

Make sure to choose options that promote gradual weight loss, not drastic. They must also encourage mild exercise, promote lifestyle changes and not exclude any major food groups. If diet or exercise are not effective, a doctor may recommend medications and other programs to help a patient lose weight. Here are some physician-supervised options:

• Weight loss programs offered by a registered dietician, medical provider or health psychologist
• Pre-packaged meal replacement plans that must be used along with behavior change and lifestyle modifications

Some candidates with more than 27 BMI diagnosed with obesity-related conditions may qualify for medically supervised weight loss procedures and or medications.

Are Weight Loss Injections Effective?

Prescription weight loss medicine like injections may offer a promising option for individuals struggling with obesity or being overweight, especially when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. These injections may help control appetite, which may make it easier to eat less and feel full longer. However, their effectiveness can vary. Weight loss medicine side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. While weight loss injections can be effective, they are not a guaranteed solution for everyone. They should be part of a broader weight loss strategy that includes diet and exercise and should be used under medical supervision to ensure optimal results and manage any risks.

What Is the Best Way To Lose Weight?

There is no one-size-fits-all method for losing weight. A highly effective approach combines your doctor's advice, creating a supportive environment that encourages healthy living and your own commitment to the journey. If weight loss without surgery may not be enough to lose weight, your obesity medicine physician may recommend that you undergo surgery to lose weight. Bariatric surgery may be an option for qualified candidates with severe obesity. This procedure includes:

• Adjustable gastric banding (LAP-BAND®)
• Biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch
• Roux-en-Y gastric bypass
• Sleeve gastrectomy

Consult with your primary care provider to determine whether you will qualify as a candidate for bariatric surgery. Here are some qualifications for this surgery according to the National Institute of Health (NIH):

• A person with a BMI of more than 40 or weighing 100 pounds more than an ideal body weight
• A person with a BMI between 35 and 40 and diagnosed with obesity-related conditions
• Non-endocrine obesity causes (polycystic ovarian syndrome, hypothyroidism, etc.)
• The patient does not have alcohol or drug addiction as well as uncontrolled psychological conditions
• The patient had failed attempts at non-invasive weight loss options
• The patient understands the risks of bariatric surgery

Currently, FDA has approved three bariatric devices for qualified patients with obesity or severe obesity:

• ORBERA™ Intragastric Balloon
• AspireAssistTM
• Plenity®

When considering options for achieving a healthier weight and life, it's not a matter of "weight loss surgery vs. medication," but rather staying well-informed about the appropriate treatment options available to you. Both surgical methods and doctor-prescribed weight loss medicine have their unique benefits and can play a crucial role in your journey toward improved health. By understanding these options and working closely with healthcare professionals, you can make educated decisions that align with your individual needs and goals. Explore your path to a healthier life today—find a weight loss provider who can guide you every step of the way.

Find a Weight Loss Specialist

Request an appointment at Nacogdoches Medical Partners in Nacogdoches, TX, for a proper diagnosis or treatment options. Our team can help assess which weight loss treatments (including weight loss medicine, surgery or other lifestyle changes) may be most appropriate for your unique situation.