Weight loss surgery or Ozempic
Weight loss surgery vs Ozempic and other medications: which is right for you?
When it comes to tackling weight loss, the options can feel overwhelming. Many people wonder whether they should go down the path of weight loss medications like Ozempic or consider something more permanent, like bariatric surgery. Let’s break it down in simple terms.
- Jon Armstrong
In this video, Perth-based Bariatric Surgeon Mr Jon Armstrong talks about Ozempic vs bariatric surgery. Follow us on Instagram for more reels!
Weight loss medications: what you need to know
Medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro are increasingly popular for weight loss. They’re powerful, widely available in Australia, and often the first choice for people looking to shed a few kilos.
Here’s the thing though: these medications come with a few strings attached.
- Side effects: Common issues include nausea, vomiting, constipation, and even gallstones. Some people also report mental health changes or pancreatitis, though that’s less common.
- Cost: These medications can be quite pricey:
- Ozempic: around $140 a month.
- Wegovy: about $440 a month.
- Mounjaro: a whopping $700 a month.
- Weight regain: Once you stop the medication, there’s a good chance you’ll regain the weight you lost. This is especially frustrating if muscle loss has occurred during the process, as it can slow your metabolism and make future weight loss even harder.
Weight loss surgery: a tried-and-tested option
Bariatric surgery is a bigger decision – no doubt about it. It’s permanent, so it takes a lot of thought. But for many people, especially those with a higher BMI, it’s a highly effective and reliable solution.
Here’s why weight loss surgery is worth considering:
- Predictable results: Surgeries like sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass offer consistent weight loss and help resolve issues like diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnoea.
- Long history: These procedures have been performed for decades, so we know what to expect in terms of results and side effects. They’re very safe when done by experienced surgeons.
- For higher BMI patients: If your BMI is over 35 or 40, medications alone might not be enough. You could lose 10–15 kilos with them, but if you’re carrying 40–50 kilos of extra weight, surgery is likely to be more effective.
Which weight loss option is best for you: Ozempic or weight loss surgery?
It really depends on your situation. For those with a lower BMI, medications are definitely worth a try. They might give you the results you’re looking for without the need for surgery. But if you’ve tried everything and still struggle, or if your BMI is on the higher side, surgery could be the right move.
Talk it over with a health care professional
Whether you’re considering medications or surgery, it’s important to speak with your GP or book a consultation at Advance Surgical.
