38: Bariatric Surgery 101 with Surgeon Dr. Daniel Rosen
Nov 06, 2023Bariatric surgery has been a popular weight loss solution for decades, but only recently have GLP 1s come onto the scene. GLP 1s have taken the weightloss community by storm in recent years, and this has left many people with questions about how bariatric surgery and GLP 1s interact… Can GLP 1s be used after surgery? What is the best option for post-bariatric patients? Today, Dr. Rosen and I have a wonderful conversation all about bariatric surgery, how GLP 1s can be applied in situations where patients have had surgery, and all of the ins and outs of weight loss.
Dr. Rosen was able to share with me the practical expectations for those patients that do go the route of bariatric surgery, and how those expectations fluctuate depending on which surgery a patient undergoes. The least effective of these popular bariatric surgeries being gastric balloons, and the most effective being gastric bypass surgery, with an average total body weight loss of about 30%. A sleeve gastrectomy sits below that, with an average mid to high 20’s total body weight loss. When considering bariatric surgery, it’s important to find a doctor that is knowledgeable about all possible options.
But you’re not done when you hit your lowest weight. You can expect to gain back as much as 50% of the weight lost within a 10 year timespan. This is why it’s so important to maintain an extended and even lifelong relationship with your physician. Obesity is a medical condition that many will battle throughout their lifetime, and when things fluctuate it’s important to have someone to help you navigate those changes. GLP 1s can be a good option post-bariatric surgery, and seeing your physician regularly allows you to get the best care possible to manage your weight when things do change.
Another reason to seek continued care from your physician is because monitoring your labs is very important after a surgery. Dr. Rosen shares that he checks iron, vitamins A, D, E, and K, lipid profiles, albumin, and protein in patients who have had bariatric surgery. These should be monitored by your doctor as large fluctuations often take place. Your physician will know what is best for you, and visiting them regularly ensures you remain your healthiest.
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