For people suffering from morbid obesity, bariatric surgery can be a powerful tool. For the surgery to be effective long term, it must be used properly. Through lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and a healthy food plan, many patients are able to make a long-term change for better health.

Results of Five-Year Follow-up28

TREATMENTWEIGHT LOSS (% OF PATIENTS)
Diet and Exercise*2% to 5%28
Medication**0%28
Bariatric Surgery***50% to 70%28

* Success measured as a loss of 10% of initial body weight.
** Weight loss is not maintained once treatment ends.
*** Success measured as a loss of 50% of excess body weight (equivalent to loss of approximately 20% to 25% of initial body weight).