In the realm of health and wellness battling obesity and diabetes, I meet a lot of great people who find themselves navigating a complex landscape of treatments and interventions. It seems as though options abound, ranging from pharmaceutical drugs touted on every TV channel to surgical procedures. In recent years, two approaches have garnered attention for their efficacy in addressing weight management and type 2 diabetes: medications like Ozempic (semaglutide) and bariatric surgeries such as sleeve gastrectomy. Today, I am exploring the journey of individuals who have tried Ozempic, Wegovy or Maunjaro and are now contemplating or undergoing sleeve gastrectomy for their health.
Ozempic: A Tool in Weight Management and Glycemic Control
Ozempic, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, has emerged as a valuable tool in the management of type 2 diabetes and obesity. It works by mimicking the action of GLP-1, one of the key hormones that goes up after bariatric surgery. It helps lower blood sugar levels, suppresses appetite, and promotes weight loss. Clinical trials have demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing HbA1c levels, promoting weight loss, and improving cardiovascular outcomes. Many people are finding success taking the weekly shot in managing their diabetes and shedding excess weight with the help of Ozempic, often in conjunction with lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise. All good things!
But despite its efficacy, Ozempic does not work for everyone, and it does not work forever. Some individuals experience side effects, mainly nausea, vomiting, or gastrointestinal discomfort. Moreover, weight loss achieved with Ozempic may plateau over time. Some people do not like the idea that we do not have long term data on a drug we probably have to take forever to maintain the lost pounds. And no one likes the expense of paying for a weekly shot that is not covered by insurance. These are some reasons why I see a lot of people who started with Ozempic and are now considering surgical interventions like sleeve gastrectomy.
Sleeve Gastrectomy: A Surgical Solution for Long-Term Weight Management
Sleeve gastrectomy, also known as gastric sleeve surgery, involves the surgical removal of a portion of the stomach to create a smaller, banana-shaped pouch. The 30-minute laparoscopic procedure reduces the stomach’s capacity, leading to earlier feelings of fullness and reduced food intake. Most importantly, the surgery alters gut hormones involved in fat storage, hunger, and satiety, which further promote weight loss, reduced blood sugar, and better health.
Sleeve gastrectomy offers several potential benefits for individuals struggling with obesity and related comorbidities. Long term research has shown that sleeve gastrectomy leads to substantial and sustained weight loss, improvements in type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia, and a reduced risk of obesity-related complications such as cardiovascular disease and obstructive sleep apnea. People live longer, healthier lives after sleeve gastrectomy. Health insurance covers it.
The Decision to Transition from Ozempic to Sleeve Gastrectomy
For individuals who have tried Ozempic but continue to face challenges in achieving their weight loss and health goals, sleeve gastrectomy may represent a viable option. While Ozempic can be effective in the short term, some individuals may require more intensive interventions to achieve long-term success. Transitioning to sleeve gastrectomy can offer the opportunity for significant and sustainable weight loss, improved glycemic control, and enhanced overall health and well-being.
In the journey towards improved health and well-being, individuals may explore distinct options, including pharmacotherapy and surgical interventions, to address weight management and metabolic health. Sleeve gastrectomy offers the potential for significant and sustained weight loss, improved metabolic health, and a reduced risk of obesity-related complications.
If you’re researching weight loss treatments, the team at Nevada Surgical would be happy to answer your questions. Contact us today to get started.
