How effective is metabolic surgery for managing diabetes?

Question

Hello Doctor,

I am 39 years old and have been living with type 2 diabetes mellitus for the past six years. I am currently taking Metformin 1000 milligrams twice daily and Glimepiride two milligrams once in the morning. However, despite this regimen, my blood sugar levels are still not well controlled. A friend recently mentioned that metabolic (bariatric) surgery might help manage diabetes, even in individuals who are not severely obese. Is this true? How much weight does a person typically need to lose for there to be a meaningful improvement in blood glucose levels? Also, if I undergo surgery, will I need to stop taking medications like Metformin and Glimepiride entirely, or might I still require them afterward? Recently, I have also been experiencing significant fatigue after meals. Could this type of surgery help with that symptom as well?

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to iCliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

As you have not achieved optimal results despite these efforts, bariatric (metabolic) surgery is certainly an option worth considering. Like all surgical procedures, bariatric surgery does carry some risks, but complications are relatively rare when performed by an experienced surgeon.

I recommend consulting a qualified bariatric surgeon to discuss the procedure in detail and determine whether you are a suitable candidate. When counseling my patients before surgery, I emphasize that while short-term outcomes can be excellent, achieving sustained long-term results requires continued motivation, a consistent exercise routine, and a healthy, balanced diet.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.