When Weight-Loss Injections Aren’t Enough

When Weight-Loss Injections Aren’t Enough

Could Gastric Sleeve Surgery Be the Next Step?

Weight-loss injections have become a popular and effective option for many people. GLP-1 medications such as Wegovy and Mounjaro can help regulate appetite, reduce cravings and support steady weight loss when combined with lifestyle changes.

However, not everyone responds in the same way.

If you have been using weight-loss injections and not achieving the results you were hoping for, or if the benefits have plateaued over time, you may be wondering what your next options are. At Harley Street Obesity Clinic, we support patients at every stage of their weight-management journey, including when it is time to consider more definitive solutions.

One highly effective next-step treatment is Gastric Sleeve Surgery.

Why Weight-Loss Injections Don’t Work for Everyone

There are several reasons why patients may see limited progress on GLP-1 medications:

  • Metabolic resistance or inherited factors
  • Hormonal drivers of weight gain that medications cannot fully overcome
  • Higher starting BMI, where greater intervention is needed
  • Difficulty tolerating higher doses of medication
  • Plateauing results, even with consistent lifestyle changes
  • Medical conditions affecting hunger, insulin, or metabolism

While injections can be an excellent tool, they are not a complete solution for every patient.

That is why our clinicians take a personalised, long-term approach, and sometimes the most effective next step is a surgical one.

Gastric Sleeve Surgery: A Proven, Long-Term Treatment

Gastric sleeve surgery (sleeve gastrectomy) is one of the most successful and widely performed weight-loss procedures worldwide.

How it works

During the procedure, a portion of the stomach is removed to create a smaller sleeve-shaped stomach. This results in:

  • Reduced hunger hormones (ghrelin)
  • Earlier fullness when eating
  • Steady, sustainable weight loss
  • Improved metabolic health, including diabetes and blood pressure control

Unlike injections, which must be continued to maintain results, sleeve surgery offers a long-term anatomical change that supports lasting weight reduction.

When Patients Should Consider Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Our specialist surgeons may recommend gastric sleeve surgery if:

  • You have not achieved significant weight loss with injections
  • You previously lost weight on medication but regained weight when stopping
  • You prefer a one-time, long-term solution rather than ongoing medication
  • Your BMI meets the recommended criteria
  • You have weight-related health concerns such as diabetes, PCOS, or sleep apnoea
  • You want a treatment with predictable, durable results

Many patients come to us after trying several non-surgical options. Sleeve surgery can offer a fresh start, especially when metabolism, appetite control or medical factors limit the effectiveness of medication.

Results You Can Expect

On average, patients lose:

  • 60–70% of excess weight within 12–18 months
  • Experience significant improvements in diabetes, energy levels, mobility and confidence
  • Achieve long-term stability when surgery is combined with healthy lifestyle support

Our team provides structured follow-up, nutritional support, psychological care and ongoing monitoring to help you succeed safely.

Why Choose Harley Street Obesity Clinic?

At Harley Street Obesity Clinic, we specialise in consultant-led, integrated weight-loss care, offering both medical and surgical pathways under one expert team.

This means we can guide you honestly and safely:

  • If injections are still appropriate, we support that pathway
  • If surgery offers a better long-term outcome, we discuss this openly
  • If a combination approach is ideal, we tailor it to you

We focus on what works for your health, your body and your long-term goals.

Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery Right for You?

If you feel stuck, frustrated or unsure what to do after weight-loss injections, you are not alone. Many patients experience the same challenges, and there is a clear, proven alternative.

We offer a full consultation to assess:

  • Your medical history
  • Your response to weight-loss injections
  • Your metabolic profile
  • Your suitability for surgical treatment

You do not need to decide alone. Our team is here to guide you.

Take the Next Step

If you are not benefiting from injections, gastric sleeve surgery may be the option that finally gives you the long-term results you deserve.

Book a consultation today with our specialist team at Harley Street Obesity Clinic and discover the safest and most effective path forward.

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