We spend hours at the computer, we eat fast food, and relieve stress with sweets. The modern world isn’t conducive to a perfect figure. Many people try to lose weight these days. And it’s not about striving for beauty standards! Without being overweight, you can feel better and avoid illness. Excess weight provokes many diseases. That is why, in some scenarios, choosing to get surgical help might be the way to go. So, which weight loss method should you choose? Which surgical or non-surgical weight loss is better for you? Let’s consider options.
Calorie intake exceeds energy expenditure. This condition affects more than 2 in 5 adults in the United States. Excess body fat negatively impacts health and quality of life. Doctors typically define obesity as a body mass index of 30 or higher. Genetics, eating habits, and, of course, lack of physical activity influenced its development. Hereditary factors affect appetite or metabolism. High consumption of processed or fatty foods quickly leads to weight gain. A sedentary lifestyle and excessive time spent in front of computer and phone screens are not conducive to a slim figure. Some antidepressants, steroids, and diabetes medications can also cause weight gain. Lack of sleep and stress affect the hormones that regulate hunger.
Obesity increases the risk of developing heart disease, stroke, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea and breathing problems, fatty liver disease and gallstones, arthritis and back pain, depression and infertility, and even certain types of cancer! Even a 5–10% weight loss significantly reduces these risks. Take care of your health early. Let’s look at the best ways to lose weight.
Obesity affects over 650 million adults. Weight loss requires a comprehensive approach. Patients with mild to moderate obesity who want to avoid surgery may choose non-surgical weight loss treatments. These methods include nutritional counseling, medication, and lifestyle modification. Structured programs focused on diet, physical activity, and mindset remain the mainstay of obesity treatment. A Mediterranean diet and regular exercise (150-300 minutes per week) promote significant weight loss.
GLP-1 receptor agonists and dual agonists represent a significant breakthrough. These medications provide significant and sustained weight loss and improved metabolism. However, long-term safety and effects on muscle mass require further research. If a person is obese, if diets are not helping, if excess weight is contributing to the development of diseases, and so on, they should choose another option.
Patients with severe obesity or weight-related health problems may benefit from more radical approaches. Bariatric surgery includes gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, or adjustable gastric banding. These methods provide more dramatic results. They aim to alter the digestive system, reduce food intake, and promote long-term weight loss. Surgical treatment achieves more significant and rapid weight loss. It improves blood sugar and lipid profiles and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality.
It is also associated with higher initial risks. People can expect potential nutritional deficiencies and the need for long-term lifestyle commitments. Patients follow dietary adjustments for life. However, many people report dramatic improvements in their health, self-confidence, and mobility.
Bariatric surgery helps obese people lose weight and improve their overall health. Select the correct procedure depending on your body type, medical history, and goals. In the United States, people often choose these three bariatric surgeries.
This method limits the absorption of calories and nutrients. It leads to the most significant weight loss, but it also carries the highest risk of complications and nutritional deficiencies. Doctors typically recommend it only for patients with severe obesity and certain medical conditions. We should mention that this procedure combines a sleeve gastrectomy with intestinal rerouting.
It’s another interesting method. It helps people with severe obesity lose weight and improve related health conditions. The specialist performs this weight-loss procedure in three stages. First, a doctor creates a tiny pouch in the upper part of the patient’s stomach. Then, they divide a small intestine and connect it to this pouch. The food bypasses part of the stomach and intestines. The doctor sews the rest of the intestine so digestive juices can mix with food later. This reduces calorie absorption and alters hormonal levels that affect hunger. Gastric bypass leads to significant weight loss.
The doctor removes about 75% of the stomach, leaving a narrow, sleeve-shaped portion. This reduced stomach limits food intake and promotes a faster feeling of fullness. It can also alter the levels of gut hormones that control appetite and metabolism. This procedure is irreversible.
The doctor places a flexible ring with an inflatable inner band around the upper part of the stomach. It creates a small pouch. This procedure is now less standard and typically results in less weight loss.
| Aspect | Surgical | Non-Surgical |
| Examples | Gastric Sleeve, Bypass | Intragastric Balloon, ESG |
| Weight Loss | 50–70% excess weight | 15–20% total weight |
| Recovery | 1–2 days in hospital | Outpatient, quick recovery |
| Best For | Severe obesity (BMI ≥ 35–40) | Moderate obesity, non-surgical candidates |
Recent research shows that combining medical and surgical therapies provides the best long-term results. Physicians, dietitians, exercise therapists, and psychologists support this integrated treatment model, which helps patients maintain their progress and improve their quality of life. Future research will continue to refine treatment options, optimize combination therapy, and ensure equal access to effective obesity treatment worldwide. An individualized, evidence-based, and interdisciplinary approach will bring the best results!
Which weight loss method should you choose? You’ve already learned the general information from our article. Consult with your doctor, as each case is individual. This decision requires a personalized approach and professional support. We are ready to help you lose weight as safely as possible. We perform several surgical weight loss options. Choose sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass, gastric banding, or interventional endoscopy. Change your life, improve your well-being, and lose weight safely? Schedule a consultation. We will help you find the best solution and support you through every stage of your recovery.
