Semaglutide: Medical Weight Loss

Many people struggle to lose weight with diet and exercise. If you are looking for options for weight loss treatments, Tannan Plastic Surgery can help. Our practice offers Semaglutide and Tirzepatide.

During your consultation, our expert nurse injector will collaborate with board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Shruti Tannan to design a customized treatment plan that reflects your unique needs and desired outcomes.

What is Semaglutide and what does it do for weight loss?

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 agonist, a type of medication that mimics a natural hormone in your gut. This hormone helps you feel full sooner and stay fuller for longer, leading you to eat less overall. This translates to significant weight loss and improved health.

Semaglutide can be a powerful tool in your weight loss journey, but it’s important to manage expectations. While it can significantly reduce your appetite and cravings, leading to decreased calorie intake, it’s not a substitute for healthy eating and exercise.

Semaglutide works best when combined with a calorie-controlled diet and regular physical activity. Think of it as a helpful companion on your weight loss journey, but not a one-size-fits-all solution.

Who Can Benefit from Weight Loss Medications?

Semaglutide is most effective for adults who are overweight, with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 25 or higher. Weight loss medication drugs similar to this, like Mounjaro, Saxenda, Wegovy, and Ozempic are all valuable tools for those with weight-related health concerns like diabetes or high blood pressure.

Studies have shown that people taking Semaglutide alongside healthy lifestyle changes can achieve an average weight loss of 10-15% of their body weight. However, it’s important to remember that this is an average, and individual results may vary.

Factors like your starting weight, overall health, and commitment to diet and exercise can all influence how much weight you lose. The best way to determine your specific weight loss goals and potential results is to schedule a consultation so that we can create a personalized plan for you.

How long does it take to see results with Semaglutide?

Some people experience a reduced appetite and start noticing changes in their weight within a few weeks of taking Semaglutide. However, it typically takes at least three months to see significant results.

Consistency is key here. By using semaglutide as prescribed and sticking to your healthy habits, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your weight loss goals. Remember, sustainable weight loss takes time and dedication, but Semaglutide can be a valuable tool in helping you reach your target weight.

Are there any side effects to taking Semaglutide?

One of the reasons we start low and go slow with the dose of Semaglutide is to minimize side effects, including:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Constipation

These side effects can be uncomfortable, but they are typically temporary and improve over time as your body adjusts to the medication.

What is “Ozempic face”?

Some patients notice changes in their facial appearance, often called “Ozempic face.” This isn’t caused directly by the medication. It happens because significant or rapid weight loss reduces the fat that gives the face its fullness. Common signs include:

• Hollow or sunken cheeks
• Sagging or loose skin
• More pronounced lines and wrinkles
• A tired or aged appearance

Losing weight at a steady pace can help. If volume loss does occur, aesthetic treatments such as dermal fillers or skin-tightening procedures can restore a fresh, natural look.

If you experience any side effects that are severe or persistent, be sure to discuss them with your doctor. There may be options to manage these side effects or adjust your dosage if needed.

Can GLP-1 Medications Affect My Hair?

Some patients experience hair thinning or shedding while taking GLP-1 medications like Semaglutide. Like Ozempic face, this is usually linked to rapid weight loss rather than the medication itself. Sudden changes in weight and calorie intake can stress the body, pushing more hair follicles into a resting phase at once, a condition known as telogen effluvium. You may notice:

• More hair in your brush or shower drain
• Overall thinning rather than bald patches
• Shedding that begins a few months after starting treatment

The good news is that this type of hair loss is typically temporary, and hair usually regrows as your weight stabilizes. To help protect your hair:

• Eat enough protein, even when your appetite is reduced
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in iron, zinc, and biotin
• Stay hydrated

Talk with your doctor about supplements or hair restoration options if shedding continues

Is Semaglutide Safe?

Semaglutide comes in a pre-filled syringe designed for injection typically under the skin once a week. It is generally well-tolerated when used as prescribed by your medical professional. Like any medication, there can be side effects, but these are usually manageable.

Discussing any questions or concerns you have about Semaglutide with your doctor is important. It is imperative to share any of your current and past medical history with your medical team, so they may determine if you are a good candidate for medical weight loss with a GLP-1 agonist like semaglutide.

Looking for Non-Surgical Weight Loss Solutions?

Semaglutide provides a medical weight loss option for anyone looking to reach their weight loss goals without surgery. If you’re interested in learning more about how Semaglutide can help you lose weight, contact our office to schedule a consultation.

We’ll discuss your weight loss goals and medical history to determine if medical weight loss with Semaglutide is the right fit for you. You deserve to look and feel like the best version of you, and sometimes you can’t do it all on your own. We are here to help you on your weight loss journey.

Ready to see if weight loss medication is right for you? Contact us to schedule a consultation!