Bariatric Surgery Declines as GLP-1 Drugs Rise: Key Trends and Implications

Bariatric surgery procedures for weight loss have declined in recent years, partly due to the rising availability and use of GLP-1 medications. This shift reflects changing patient and physician preferences in obesity treatment strategies.

Study Findings: Bariatric Surgery Trends from 2020 to 2024

Researchers from Loyola University Chicago analyzed data from the ACS-MBSAQIP national database, which tracks bariatric surgeries in the United States. The study examined procedures performed between 2020 and 2024, including both initial weight loss surgeries and follow-up revision or conversion procedures.

The data revealed that bariatric surgery numbers peaked in 2022 before declining in subsequent years. This trend suggests a growing preference for nonsurgical alternatives, such as GLP-1 medications and weight management programs, among patients and healthcare providers.

Key Trends in Bariatric Surgery Types

• Decline in sleeve gastrectomy: This procedure, which involves removing a portion of the stomach, has seen a steady decrease in its share of total bariatric surgeries since 2020. Despite this decline, it remains the most common bariatric surgery.
• Increase in Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: This procedure, which creates a small stomach pouch and reroutes the intestines, has become more prevalent, particularly as a conversion surgery for patients who previously underwent sleeve gastrectomy.
• Other bariatric procedures: The study also noted an overall increase in alternative bariatric procedures, reflecting evolving treatment approaches.

Why This Shift Matters

Bariatric surgery has long been considered an effective long-term strategy for weight loss, with advancements such as laparoscopic techniques improving recovery times. However, the rise of GLP-1 medications and other noninvasive therapies has introduced new options for patients.

"Until recently, bariatric surgery was considered a first-line treatment for weight loss. Now, the landscape is changing as patients and doctors explore alternatives."

The study’s findings were presented at the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) Annual Meeting from May 3–7 in San Antonio, TX. While the results have not yet been published in a peer-reviewed journal, they highlight significant shifts in obesity treatment trends.

Patient and Physician Considerations

Experts emphasize that the choice between weight loss surgery and medications should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider. Factors such as patient health, weight loss goals, and medical history play a crucial role in determining the most appropriate treatment.

Dr. [Name Redacted], a spokesperson for the ASMBS, noted, "The decline in bariatric surgeries does not indicate a lack of effectiveness. Instead, it reflects the growing diversity of treatment options available to patients."

For individuals considering weight loss strategies, the study underscores the importance of exploring all available options, including bariatric surgery, GLP-1 medications, and lifestyle modifications.