The Impact of GLP-1 Drugs on Bariatric Surgery Rates in the U.S.

Wed, 06 May 2026 22:45:00 +0200

Recent research indicates that the rise of GLP-1 medications, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, is correlated with a notable decline in bariatric surgeries in the United States. These drugs, which mimic the GLP-1 hormone to regulate hunger and insulin, are more effective than traditional diet and exercise, though still slightly less effective than surgical options like gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy. Data from the ACS-MBSAQIP shows that after peaking at over 230,000 procedures in 2022, the estimated number of bariatric surgeries fell to around 177,000 in 2024, marking a 23% drop. Experts are concerned that patients with severe obesity may be choosing medication over surgery, potentially missing out on the long-term weight loss and cost-effectiveness that surgery provides. While GLP-1 drugs have revolutionized obesity treatment, their popularity and marketing might overshadow the strong evidence supporting metabolic and bariatric surgery. Researchers stress the importance of educating