Dr. Todd Eibes Discusses Surgical Weight Loss

Looking into medical or surgical weight loss in Iowa? This blog turns a recent interview from the Iowa Specialty Hospitals & Clinics ISH Dish Podcast with Dr. Todd Eibes, one of the Midwest’s most experienced bariatric surgeons, into clear answers you can use.

Who is Dr. Todd Eibes, and why choose Iowa Weight Loss Specialists?

Dr. Todd Eibes, DO, FACS, has performed over 5,000 bariatric surgeries in more than 20 years. He leads a comprehensive team at Iowa Weight Loss Specialists, an MBSAQIP Center of Excellence. Patients receive coordinated surgical and medical weight-loss care, nutrition counseling, behavioral health services, and ongoing support.

Why is long-term weight loss so hard with diet alone?

Your appetite is influenced by hormones (like ghrelin and GLP-1). When you cut calories, your body often raises hunger signals to protect you from perceived starvation. This is why many people lose weight, then regain it. It’s not about weak willpower; it’s biology.

What weight-loss options work best for significant, long-term results?

Two proven options alter appetite biology:

• Metabolic/bariatric surgery (sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass) lowers hunger hormones and changes how your body regulates weight.
• Anti-obesity medications (GLP-1s) like semaglutide or tirzepatide mimic natural fullness signals to reduce appetite.

How effective is bariatric surgery?

Surgery offers high, durable results:

• About 90% of patients lose at least half of their excess weight.
• Type 2 diabetes remission: up to 70% (when diabetes is less than 7 years).
• Sleep apnea: ~50% cured.
• High blood pressure: ~30% improved.
• Heart disease risk: ~50% lower; cancer risk: ~30% lower.
  Results vary by patient, procedure, and follow-through.

What are the risks of bariatric surgery?

Modern bariatric surgery is low risk with an experienced team:

• Major complication rate: about 1–1.5%.
• Stomach Leak: ~2 in 1,000.
• Blood clot: ~2 in 1,000.
  Your team balances surgical risk against the long-term risks of untreated obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.

Sleeve vs. gastric bypass: what’s the difference?

Sleeve Gastrectomy

• Removes ~70% of the stomach; normal digestion/absorption continues.
• Typically, fewer vitamin issues; daily multivitamin, calcium, and vitamin D recommended.
• Lower long-term complication risk; the most common procedure in the U.S.

Gastric Bypass

• Reroutes food past part of the small bowel.
• May yield slightly more weight loss for some, but higher risk of vitamin deficiencies, ulcers, and bowel obstructions.
• Requires closer long-term nutrient monitoring.

Dr. Eibes often favors the least-invasive, lowest-risk option that achieves results—gastric sleeve surgery—with medications layered in if needed.

How do GLP-1 weight-loss medications (like Ozempic/Wegovy or Mounjaro/Zepbound) work?

They copy your body’s GLP-1 fullness signal, telling your brain you’re satisfied and slowing digestion. Many patients lose substantial weight with medication alone; others combine meds with surgery for even greater results.

Will I regain weight if I stop GLP-1 medication?

Most people regain if they stop. Think of GLP-1s like blood pressure medicine; they work while you take them. If you prefer not to stay on meds long-term, surgery may be a better fit.

Are compounded GLP-1s the same as brand-name drugs?

Compounded versions appeared during national shortages, but they’re not regulated to the same standard, and dose accuracy can vary. Dr. Eibes generally prefers brand-name medications for safety and consistency, while understanding cost constraints.

What about cost and insurance coverage?

Coverage varies by plan. Demand for GLP-1s is high, and cost can be a barrier. Surgery is often covered, but it depends on your employer/insurer. Our team helps you verify benefits, explore options, and choose a path that fits your health and budget.

How does combining surgery and medication help?

For some patients, adding GLP-1s after a sleeve can enhance appetite control and push results from ~60% to potentially ~80% excess-weight loss. Your team will personalize timing and dosing.

What long-term support do I get at Iowa Weight Loss Specialists?

We offer comprehensive, lifelong care:

• Medical weight-loss clinic and medication management
• Bariatric surgery and follow-up
• Dietitians, behavioral health, and support groups (including a private online community)
• Annual check-ins to keep your weight in remission and adjust treatment as life changes

How do I know if I qualify for medical or surgical weight loss?

Use our quick online Health Risk Assessment (HRA) to see if you may qualify for medical or surgical options based on your BMI and health conditions. Then, meet our team to confirm the best plan for you.

What if I’m unsure about surgery?

Start with medical weight loss or take our free online surgical class. Learn the facts, risks, and benefits. Many couples and families attend together and choose the path that makes sense for them.

What results do patients notice first?

Patients often say, “I wish I’d done this sooner.” As weight and metabolic disease improve, people report more energy, better sleep, fewer meds, and greater confidence in daily life.

How do I get started?

• Call: 515-327-2000
• Take the Health Risk Assessment and schedule a no-pressure consultation. Most Iowa plans cover medical and surgical options (verify your specific benefits). We do not charge program fees.

Ready to explore safe, effective weight loss?

You deserve a plan that works, and a team that stands with you for the long run. Request a consult today and learn whether surgery is right for you. No pressure—just clear answers and expert care.