Combining Bariatric Surgery with GLP-1 Medications

What You Need to Know As You Explore Your Weight Loss Options

For many people, achieving long-term success in weight loss involves more than just one approach. At Long Island Laparoscopic Doctors, we often discuss integrating surgical and medical therapies, including combining bariatric (weight-loss) surgery with GLP-1 receptor agonist therapy.

Here’s what you should know as you explore your various options.

Why Combine GLP-1 Therapy with Bariatric Surgery?

• Enhanced weight loss potential: Bariatric surgery (i.e. gastric sleeve, gastric bypass) remains the most effective long-term treatment for severe obesity. However, especially in cases of very high BMI or when additional metabolic conditions (like diabetes or hypertension) are present, adding GLP-1 therapy before or after surgery may improve outcomes.
• Metabolic and cardio-metabolic benefits: GLP-1s help regulate blood sugar, reduce appetite, slow digestion, and may improve cardiovascular risk. These benefits can complement the anatomical and hormonal changes induced by bariatric surgery, enhancing your overall metabolic health.
• Flexible, individualized treatment plans: Not all patients respond the same way to surgery alone. Some may benefit from a “hybrid” approach such as weight loss surgery and ongoing GLP-1 therapy, along with lifestyle support (nutrition, activity, and behavioral counseling).

When & How GLP-1 Therapy Might Be Used in Conjunction With Surgery

• Pre-operative “jump start”: For patients with very high BMI, GLP-1s may help reduce weight before surgery, potentially lowering surgical risk.
• Post-operative support and maintenance: After bariatric surgery, GLP-1 therapy can help support appetite regulation, prevent weight regain, and address underlying metabolic issues.
• Long-term chronic disease management: Treating obesity as a chronic disease, not a one-time fix , is essential. A combined medical-surgical approach can allow long-term management tailored to your changing needs.

Considerations & Challenges

• Insurance coverage: As discussed above, GLP-1 coverage, especially for weight management, is variable. Combining surgery with GLP-1s may increase costs, and prior authorization may be necessary.
• Commitment required: Success depends on continued lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, behavioral support), not just medication or surgery.
• Monitoring & follow-up:  Regular follow-up is critical for nutritional health, metabolic status, and to adjust therapy as needed.

Why Choose Long Island Laparoscopic Doctors

At Long Island Laparoscopic Doctors, Dr. Hesham Atwa and his entire team take a patient-centered, evidence-based approach. That means:

• Thorough evaluation to see if you’re a candidate for surgery, GLP-1 therapy, or both.
• Personalized care plan integrating your medical history, lifestyle, and long-term weight loss and health goals.
• Long-term support (including body contouring). Thus, they offer not just a procedure or prescription, but education, follow-up, and guidance to sustain results.

If you’re considering a hybrid approach to weight loss, combining the power of bariatric surgery with the metabolic support of GLP-1s, reach out to our caring team to discuss your options. You can contact us for a consultation or to ask any questions.