Source: Swedish Obesity Study.

This graph shows Bypass has the greatest weight loss with less regain - providing 25% body weight loss after 10 years with Band and Sleeve around 15% body weight loss.
It is likely bypass has a more enduring effect on appetite than Band and Sleeve.

As a Bariatric Dietitian, I have helped thousands of people lose weight using weight loss surgery, over the past 20 years.

A valid choice for people with a BMI 35+ who have tried everything else : an effective solution for losing 20% or more of your body weight. While weight loss can be rapid in the first 6 months, it slows down after a year, especially those with sedentary lifestyles. On average, a quarter of the weight is regained over 10 years - see graph.

Fear of weight regain is common and best tackled head on: The second year can be challenging, with fears of weight regain, making it the perfect time to reassess your strategy, build confidence, and continue your journey. Fear of weight regain is especially high in people that sustain a sedentary lifestyle and fall back into the old eating habits.

Regaining weight doesn’t reflect personal failure — it’s an opportunity to address these challenges with self-compassion. Staying organized around food and understanding appetite regulation are key to long-term success.

GLP-1 can help
Whilst some people chose bariatric surgery because GLP-1 medications did not work for them, or did not fit their budget, medication can be a helpful tool for some people after bariatric surgery, especially after gastric band and sleeve gastrectomy. However increasing activity and addressing any eating disorders and disordered eating like comfort eating are longer term strategies.

Weight loss surgery leads to more weight loss than weight loss medications during the first year. The expected weight loss is about 10-15% for Wegovy (GLP-1), 15-21% for Mounjaro (GLP-1 + GIP) , and 25-32% for bariatric surgery. Gastric Sleeve & Bypass surgery is one-off procedure, medication requires ongoing therapy and cost.

I offer personalized strategies for sustained weight loss after and after, after bariatric surgery. Medicare and health fund rebates apply.