Why You Still Can’t Lose Weight After Bariatric Surgery

If you’ve had bariatric surgery—whether gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, or lap-band—you probably expected dramatic, long-term weight loss. And for many people, that’s true.

But for others, weight loss stalls. Or the weight comes back. And you’re left wondering: What went wrong?

As Dr. Laura, I work with many post-bariatric patients who feel confused, frustrated, or even ashamed that they’re not seeing results anymore. But here’s the truth:

It’s not your fault. And you are not alone.

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Why Weight Loss Stalls After Surgery

Bariatric surgery changes the structure of your digestive system, but it doesn’t erase:

    •    Hormonal imbalances (like insulin resistance or low thyroid)

    •    Muscle loss from rapid weight reduction

    •    Stress or trauma stored in the body

    •    Nutrient deficiencies that affect metabolism

    •    Leptin, ghrelin, and GLP-1 dysregulation

Over time, your body adapts. Hunger hormones rebound. Digestion changes. And metabolism slows unless you intervene strategically.

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5 Reasons You’re Still Struggling Post-Surgery

1. Muscle Loss → Slowed Metabolism

You may have lost muscle during rapid weight loss. Less lean mass = fewer calories burned at rest.

2. Insulin Resistance Isn’t Fixed by Surgery

If your cells are still resistant to insulin, your body stays in fat-storage mode—especially if protein intake is low or carbs are high.

3. Hormone Imbalance

Bariatric surgery doesn’t fix low testosterone, thyroid dysfunction, or estrogen/progesterone imbalance—especially after age 35–40.

4. Nutrient Deficiencies

Iron, B12, D, magnesium, and other nutrients affect metabolism and energy. Many bariatric patients aren’t absorbing them well.

5. You’re Still Eating “Less,” But Not “Right”

Low-calorie diets without enough protein, fiber, and fat can lead to rebound hunger, fatigue, and inflammation.

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My Approach as Dr. Laura

I don’t blame you. I help you investigate.

We dig into:

    •    Full hormone panels

    •    Fasting insulin, leptin, and glucose control

    •    Nutrient repletion and gut function

    •    Peptide support (GLP-1s, GHRH, BPC-157)

    •    Strength training and targeted protein plans

In many cases, I’ll recommend:

    •    GLP-1 medications like semaglutide or tirzepatide

    •    Testosterone or thyroid therapy (in women and men)

    •    Peptides to help rebuild metabolic function

    •    Supplement plans that actually absorb

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You Didn’t Fail Your Surgery—It Just Isn’t the Whole Solution

If you’ve hit a wall after bariatric surgery, it’s not because you’re lazy or broken. It’s because your body is complex—and healing requires more than shrinking your stomach.

Let’s work together to rebuild your metabolism, restore your hormones, and get you feeling strong and energized again.

Schedule a personalized consult with Dr. Laura today.