Introduction
Type 2 diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases in the U.S., closely linked with obesity. While medications and lifestyle changes can manage blood sugar, many patients wonder: Can bariatric surgery actually cure diabetes? Let’s explore what the science says about bariatric surgery and diabetes and how surgical weight loss impacts blood sugar control.
Bariatric Surgery as Metabolic Surgery
Bariatric surgery is not just about weight loss; it’s also a powerful metabolic intervention. Procedures like sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass significantly affect hormones like insulin and GLP-1, improving blood sugar control within days‐even before significant weight loss occurs.
Diabetes Remission: Cure vs. Control
Studies show that up to 80% of patients with type 2 diabetes achieve remission after surgery. Remission means maintaining normal blood sugar levels without the need for diabetes medications. While it's not technically a “cure,” many patients experience long-term freedom from insulin and oral medications.
Which Bariatric Surgery Is Best for Diabetes?
- Gastric Bypass: Has the highest rates of diabetes remission.
- Sleeve Gastrectomy: Effective but slightly lower remission rates.
- SIPS/SADI: An emerging option with promising metabolic effects.
Do You Qualify for Bariatric Surgery for Diabetes?
Patients with a BMI over 35, or over 30 with poorly controlled diabetes, may qualify for bariatric surgery. If you’ve struggled to manage your blood sugar despite trying multiple medications, surgery could offer a new path forward.
Expert Bariatric Diabetes Support in Chicago
Dr. Jihad Kudsi is a board-certified bariatric surgeon in the Chicago area, specializing in metabolic surgery for diabetes remission. His evidence-based approach is tailored for long-term results.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Kudsi to find out if bariatric surgery for diabetes is right for you.
