The increasing popularity of GLP-1 drugs, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, for weight loss has led to a new challenge: weight regain after discontinuing the medication. This trend is prompting a surge in patients seeking bariatric surgery as a more durable solution.
Pamela Melgarejo, a New York resident, experienced this cycle firsthand. After trying numerous diets and weight loss methods over the years, she turned to GLP-1s in 2021. While the medication initially helped her lose 30 pounds and improved her blood sugar levels, she also experienced side effects including nausea, extreme appetite suppression, and suicidal thoughts. After trying four different GLP-1 medications without success in balancing benefits and side effects, Melgarejo stopped taking them.
"It came back with taxes," Melgarejo stated. "I gained twice as much weight as I lost." When her weight reached 267 pounds, she opted for bariatric surgery at the NYU Langone Health Weight Management Program.
Dr. Loic Tchokouani, a surgeon at NYU Langone, confirmed that Melgarejo's experience is common. "This is a scenario that is familiar and a major driver of patients seeking surgical treatment," he said. "A majority of my patients have now tried a GLP-1, be it a sample or prescribed course, before seeing me. I do think many patients are missing out on, or at least foregoing, a more effective solution to their obesity."
Studies indicate that patients can regain a significant portion of their lost weight within a year of stopping GLP-1s. In contrast, bariatric surgery, such as sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass, typically results in a much smaller percentage of weight regain over several years. Melgarejo underwent a gastric sleeve procedure in March 2025, which involves removing a large portion of the stomach to reduce intake and hunger signals. Within six months, she lost over 100 pounds and has maintained this loss for over a year.
"The GLP-1 tricks your mind more than anything, but the surgery is something that changes how your body functions," Melgarejo explained. "Even if I wanted something that is very high in carbs, or that is not so good for my health, I couldn’t eat enough that would harm me."
Tchokouani described bariatric surgery as the "most effective and durable tool" against obesity, a chronic condition affecting a significant portion of the U.S. adult population. He noted that the hormonal effects of bariatric surgery are substantially greater than those of GLP-1s, leading to more effective and sustained weight loss. GLP-1s, on the other hand, require consistent administration and potentially escalating doses to maintain their effects.
Since her surgery, Melgarejo has experienced significant improvements in her health, including the reversal of conditions like high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, and fatty liver disease. She also reports increased energy and a better quality of life.
"Everything has improved by a lot," she said. "My body now functions the way it’s supposed to — that is a big plus."