If you’ve started your journey with weight loss medication (GLP-1s) and made progress but you’re facing a plateau, side effects or fear of lifelong dependency, you are not alone.
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Many patients experience a ‘plateau’ after sustained use of weight loss medication or a ‘rebound’ effect after pausing treatment, and lifelong use is a concern for others, but there are alternatives.
At Sea Change, we specialise in offering the more permanent and durable solution of weight loss surgery as a ‘next step’ for suitable patients. Weight loss surgery such as sleeve gastrectomy is generally considered the most effective and long-lasting treatment for severe obesity. Unlike medication which typically requires lifelong adherence, surgery provides a permanent metabolic and physical change. Here’s a quick summary of the differences:
| Weight Loss Medications (GLP-1s) | Weight Loss Surgery (e.g. sleeve gastrectomy) | |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Non-surgical, generally via a self-administered subcutaneous (under the skin) injection | Surgical procedure |
| Results | Can lead to clinically meaningful weight loss | Generally the most effective and durable treatment, offering greater sustained weight loss |
| Long-term maintenance | Typically requires ongoing, lifelong use to prevent recurrent weight gain | A more durable intervention that permanently alters the body’s digestive system |
| Cost | Significantly more expensive in the long-term due to typical lifelong use | Most cost-effective in the long-term (and insured patients may be able access coverage for surgery) |
| Using superannuation | Superannuation cannot be accessed to fund weight loss medication | You may be able to access superannuation to fund weight loss surgery |
Ready for the Next Step?
We understand you may not be ready to book surgery today, but we can help advise on what options are available and suitable for you. Simply request an initial consultation below and our team will be in touch with you promptly.
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