In recent years, weight loss injections like Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Wegovy have become the talk of the town. While some swear by their effectiveness, new research suggests that patients may need to lower their expectations—and even consider alternative routes if they want lasting results.
A study by NYU Langone Health and NYC Health + Hospitals revealed that surgical options such as gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy can deliver up to five times better results than GLP-1 agonist drugs like semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) or tirzepatide (Mounjaro).
The Numbers Don’t Lie
Patients who underwent surgery lost an average of 58 pounds over two years. In comparison, those on GLP-1 injections for at least six months only lost around 12 pounds.
Even after a full year, the drug group only saw about 7% body weight loss, while surgery patients dropped closer to 24% in the same timeframe.
Ozempic has become popular in recent months (Getty Stock Photo)
Dr. Avery Brown, the study’s lead author, pointed out that while clinical trials report 15–21% weight loss on GLP-1s, real-world results tell a different story. Many people struggle to stay on the injections long-term, with 70% of patients quitting within a year.
Why Surgery Wins (and What to Watch Out For)
Surgery isn’t a magic fix—it comes with its own risks, such as infection, blood clots, hernias, or bowel obstruction (Mayo Clinic). But for those who stick with it, the results are significant and often longer-lasting.
Unlike injections, which can be stopped at any time, surgery is permanent. Plus, post-op patients must commit to strict diet and exercise plans to keep the weight off.
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Dr. Karan Chhabra from NYU Grossman School of Medicine added that future research will look into how to improve outcomes for patients, whether through better support for GLP-1 users or helping identify who might benefit more from surgery.
What the Drugmakers Say
Drugmakers like Novo Nordisk (Ozempic/Wegovy) and Eli Lilly (Mounjaro) highlight that obesity is a complex disease influenced by genetics, psychology, environment, and more. They stress that there’s no “one-size-fits-all” solution—medications are just one part of the puzzle.
There are many ways to shed the pounds (Getty Stock Photo)
In their statement, Novo Nordisk emphasized:
“Treatment decisions should be made together with a healthcare provider who can evaluate a patient’s individual medical profile.”
Bottom Line
If you’re considering weight loss jabs, it’s worth managing expectations. While injections may help some, surgery continues to prove more effective in the long run. The best option? A conversation with your doctor about which treatment—whether injections, surgery, or lifestyle changes—fits your unique health needs.
👉 For more details on bariatric surgery risks and benefits, visit Mayo Clinic.
