If you're struggling with obesity, chances are you’ve heard of medications like Ozempic, Wegovy and Zepbound — part of a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. Touted for their ability to treat diabetes, as well as help people lose weight, these drugs have exploded in popularity.
But while GLP-1s have opened new doors in obesity care, they don’t close the chapter on one of the most effective, long-term solutions available: bariatric surgery.
“There’s definitely been a drop in bariatric surgery volume—at least 50 percent,” says Houman Solomon, MD, a board-certified Obesity Medicine physician and Director of Bariatric Surgery at Torrance Memorial. “It’s understandable. If you tell someone they can either get surgery or take an injection, most people will pick the injection. But those drugs aren’t for everyone.”
What’s the Difference?
GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro were originally developed to treat Type 2 diabetes but are now widely prescribed for weight loss. They work by mimicking hormones that reduce appetite and slow digestion, helping patients lose weight over time. However, most patients see a maximum weight loss of 15–20% of their total body weight—and that’s only if they stay on the medication indefinitely. Once they stop, much of the weight often returns.
“That’s one fundamental difference between weight loss surgery and weight loss medication,” says Dr. Solomon. “With medications, you’re stuck with them for life. Surgery, on the other hand, can eliminate the need for many medications entirely.”
By contrast, bariatric surgery can lead to a 60–75% reduction in excess body weight, depending on the procedure. It also results in profound health benefits that can be sustained long-term with the right support.
“These surgeries are one of the few ways to actually cure some chronic diseases,” says Dr. Solomon. “Diabetes, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, heartburn, joint and back pain — many of these conditions go away within six months to a year after weight loss surgery.”
In fact, according to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS), up to 80% of patients with Type 2 diabetes experience full remission after bariatric surgery. And today’s procedures are safer than ever. At Torrance Memorial, most patients stay just one night in the hospital and begin drinking fluids within hours of surgery.
“There’s a misconception that surgery is dangerous or cosmetic. It’s not—it’s a medically proven, life-changing treatment,” Dr. Solomon emphasizes.
Surgery and GLP-1s: Better Together?
Bariatric surgery and GLP-1 medications don’t have to compete—they can complement each other. Torrance Memorial takes a comprehensive, patient-first approach to weight management, incorporating both options when appropriate.
“Obesity is a chronic disease. It’s not something you fix with one treatment and walk away,” says Dr. Solomon. “We already use GLP-1s with some patients after surgery to help them stay on track. It’s part of the long-term strategy.”
And for those hesitant about surgery, Dr. Solomon urges a closer look.
“Almost everyone who has the surgery says they wish they had done it sooner,” he notes. “Don’t rely on Instagram or hearsay—get accurate information from a trusted medical source.”
Why Torrance Memorial?
At Torrance Memorial’s nationally recognized bariatric program, patients benefit from personalized, expert care that includes medical evaluations, nutrition counseling, support groups, and both surgical and non-surgical options. The hospital has been certified as a Center of Excellence for over 20 years, with a track record of safety and success.
“We’re not here to push one option,” says Dr. Solomon. “We’re here to guide you to the best option for your health goals—whether that’s surgery, medication, or both.”
Want to learn more?
Explore Torrance Memorial’s comprehensive weight loss program or attend one of our free educational seminars. Call 310-891-6735 or visit torrancememorial.org/bariatrics to get started.
