Which route should you take – bariatric surgery or popular GLP-1 medications for your weight loss? If you’re dealing with obesity, one of the key things to consider is the cost of your weight loss options, including the overall bariatric surgery cost versus GLP-1 drugs. 

GLP-1 medications are injectable drugs that help control blood sugar and reduce appetite, resulting in weight loss. They have received much attention in the news in recent years, leading many to consider them as an alternative to traditional weight-reduction methods and bariatric surgery.

However, gastric sleeve surgery – a type of bariatric surgery where 80% of the stomach is permanently removed, reducing its capacity and suppressing appetite – is seen as a better long-term health investment.  

In this blog post, we explore the cost benefits of gastric sleeve surgery compared to the long-term use of these medications. Additionally, we cover the overall health benefits of bariatric surgery so you can make informed decisions for your weight loss journey.  

The Cost of Bariatric Surgery vs. GLP-1 Medications in Canada

One of the most common concerns among those considering weight loss surgery is the financial investment. On average, private bariatric surgery, such as gastric sleeve surgery, typically costs approximately $18,000 to $20,000. 

Let’s compare this to the average cost of GLP-1 drugs in Canada.

• GLP-1 Medications: These drugs cost between $300 to $1,000 per month, depending on dosage and insurance coverage. Without insurance, the annual cost can exceed $12,000 per year.
• Long-Term Expense: Since GLP-1 drugs often require lifelong use to maintain weight loss, the total cost over 5–10 years can easily surpass $60,000–$120,000.

From a purely financial standpoint, a one-time bariatric surgery cost is a more cost-effective investment than continuous medication use.

Beyond the Procedure: Long-Term Cost Savings on Medications and Devices

Weight loss isn’t just about looking and feeling better—it’s also about reducing obesity-related health risks.

Many individuals undergoing gastric sleeve surgery experience significant reductions in comorbidities such as hypertension (HTN) and Type 2 diabetes.

• Diabetes Medications, Devices and Supplies: Patients with diabetes often spend up to $18,300 a year on medications, testing devices and supplies. After sleeve surgery, many experience remission or reduced medication dependency within months.
• Hypertension Medications: The average cost of blood pressure medication is $500–$1,200 per year. Many bariatric patients no longer need these medications after weight loss.
• Sleep Apnea Treatment: After the initial cost of a CPAP machine ($1,500 to $2,500), supplies and maintenance can cost $600 yearly. Significant weight loss often eliminates the need for a CPAP machine.

By reducing or eliminating these expenses, gastric sleeve surgery can be a game-changer, often covering its cost within just a few years.

Health Benefits of Bariatric Surgery

Beyond financial savings, gastric sleeve surgery provides several key health benefits:

• Sustained Weight Loss: Unlike GLP-1 drugs, which require continuous use, gastric sleeve surgery leads to long-term weight loss without ongoing medication dependency.
• Improved Mobility & Energy Levels: Daily activities are easier as losing excess weight reduces joint pain and fatigue. 
• Lower Risk of Chronic Diseases: Bariatric surgery reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers, improving long-term health outcomes.
• Better Mental Health: Many patients experience significant improvements in confidence, self-esteem, and overall mental well-being after surgery.
• Improved Fertility & Hormonal Balance: Weight loss can help regulate hormones, increasing fertility in women with conditions like PCOS.

The health benefits of bariatric surgery can transform both your physical and mental well-being in the long term.

Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery The Better Investment?

When considering bariatric surgery costs, it’s wise to look beyond the initial price tag and evaluate the long-term financial benefits. 

While GLP-1 drugs offer a non-surgical weight loss option, their lifelong expense can easily surpass the cost of a one-time gastric sleeve surgery.

Additionally, gastric sleeve surgery provides lasting benefits beyond weight loss, potentially reducing or eliminating the need for costly medications and improving overall quality of life.

Gastric sleeve surgery might be the smartest investment you can make—not just for your finances but for lasting wellness and a healthier future. 

Tip: MyLife Bariatrics offers financing options that make gastric sleeve surgery more accessible and feasible. 

Bariatric Surgery at MyLife Bariatrics

Your next step is to research and get your questions about bariatric surgery answered. Learn about gastric sleeve surgery and whether you qualify for it. 

If you’re ready to take the next step towards private, out-of-hospital bariatric sleeve surgery, our surgeons, dietitians, and partners at HOW Clinic are here to help.

Let MyLife Bariatrics be part of your journey every step of the way. Contact us to learn more. You can also visit mylifebariatrics.com and follow us on Instagram or Facebook.