I’m sure you’ve heard about the craze over semaglutide for weight loss. Many of our patients are asking for a way to lose excess weight prior to their procedure. Occasionally we require patients to lose weight prior to cosmetic surgery both for safety and better outcomes. If you are looking for safe weight loss in the Atlanta or Marietta area, we offer semaglutide. At Georgia Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, we proudly serve the surrounding areas including Douglasville, Vinings, and Woodstock.
What Is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is a generic form of Ozempic. It is a GLP-1 receptor agonist approved by the FDA initially for diabetes and now for weight loss. This medication is injected weekly to reduce appetite and makes you feel full longer after your meals. It helps by delaying the emptying of your stomach so that you feel full longer. Semaglutide also helps to stimulate insulin production, which can work to regulate your blood sugar levels. Semaglutide is not a magic weight-loss solution, so it will require a healthy diet and exercise plan in order to see results.
How Does Semaglutide Work?
Semaglutide primarily works by mimicking a natural hormone in your body called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). This hormone targets areas in the brain that regulate appetite and food intake, making you feel satisfied with smaller portions. By interacting with these receptors, semaglutide can alter your body’s response to hunger signals, helping you better manage how much you eat throughout the day.
In addition to curbing hunger, semaglutide influences how your body absorbs nutrients from the food you eat. This can help your metabolism process calories more effectively. By optimizing these internal processes, Semaglutide supports long-term weight management as part of a broader healthy lifestyle.
What Are the Benefits of Semaglutide Treatments?
Sustained Weight Loss
Sustaining weight loss can be difficult, especially when relying on traditional methods alone. With semaglutide, patients can experience steady progress as their body gradually adapts to consuming fewer calories. By helping to manage hunger signals and support portion control, semaglutide can give you results that are more long-term than the results you may have gotten just from your healthy eating and exercise efforts.
Improved Metabolic Health
Metabolic health refers to your body’s ability to process energy and regulate vital functions like blood sugar and fat storage. When metabolic health is in balance, your body can more efficiently manage weight and prevent diseases. Semaglutide enhances insulin sensitivity which helps regulate blood sugar levels. Patients may also notice lower blood pressure levels since the treatment can positively impact cardiovascular health. These adjustments improve your overall metabolic function and create a healthier foundation for weight management.
Reduced Hunger Cravings
Hunger cravings are often the reason patients find it challenging to stay on a diet since the urge to eat is both physiological and psychological. Semaglutide helps to address these cravings by altering the way your brain interprets hunger signals. For patients who struggle with emotional eating or stress-related cravings, this treatment can reduce those impulses and make it easier to stay on track.
Potential for Long-Term Health Improvements
Patients with regular semaglutide treatments may also experience broader health benefits beyond weight loss. By improving insulin sensitivity, reducing appetite, and supporting healthier metabolic processes, this treatment may help lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The weight loss achieved can also have positive impacts on heart and musculoskeletal health. Managing your weight with semaglutide can reduce the likelihood of future health complications.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Semaglutide?
BMI Criteria
Body mass index (BMI) can be a useful starting point when considering eligibility for semaglutide treatment, but it doesn’t tell the whole story. Typically, patients with a BMI of 30 or higher are considered candidates for medical weight loss interventions like semaglutide. For those with a BMI of 27 or higher who have weight-related health conditions, this treatment might also be recommended. BMI is a general guideline, but we always take into account your health profile to find the best approach.
Health Conditions
Certain health conditions can make patients more suitable candidates for semaglutide. Those with conditions such as pre-diabetes, type 2 diabetes, or high blood pressure may benefit from this medication. Semaglutide might offer support in managing weight for patients dealing with high cholesterol or sleep apnea. Discussing any underlying health concerns with us helps us make sure this treatment aligns with your overall health goals.
Medical History Considerations
Your medical history is another important factor when determining if semaglutide is the right fit. We take a close look at past and current medications, surgeries, and how your body has responded to various treatments in the past. It’s important to share information about any history of gastrointestinal issues or allergic reactions to medications, as these can influence how your body might respond to medical weight loss treatments like semaglutide.
The Semaglutide Treatment Process
Your Initial Consultation and Assessment
During your first consultation, we’ll assess your overall health, medical history, and weight loss goals. This evaluation helps us determine if semaglutide is the right fit for you. We’ll also review any medications you’re currently taking and discuss potential lifestyle changes that can support your treatment.
Dosage and Injection Frequency
Semaglutide is administered through weekly injections. We start with a lower dose to allow your body to adjust to the medication. Once the adjustment period is over, we may increase the dose.
Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustments
Throughout the treatment, we’ll regularly monitor your progress. This includes tracking weight loss, reviewing any side effects, and adjusting the dosage if necessary. Continual assessments help us make sure the treatment is still working effectively and is not causing any side effects.
Addressing Plateaus
Plateaus can occur during any weight loss program. If your progress slows, we’ll review your current regimen and make necessary changes to your semaglutide dosage, diet, or activity level. With our experience in helping patients from all walks of life lose weight, we can help you through any challenges you may face during your treatment.
The Importance of Combining Semaglutide With Lifestyle Changes
While semaglutide can be an effective tool for managing weight, it should always be paired with lifestyle changes and a commitment to better health. Relying on the medication alone won’t provide the best results or give you all of the benefits. Lifestyle changes that we will encourage include:
- Nutritional Support: Adjusting your diet to include nutrient-dense foods while reducing processed and high-calorie meals supports the weight loss effects of semaglutide. Working with a nutritionist or following a healthy meal plan can enhance your results.
- Exercise Regimens: Regular physical activity is important for maximizing the benefits of Semaglutide. Incorporating cardio and strength training helps you burn calories, improve muscle tone, and boost your overall health.
- Other Lifestyle Changes: Managing stress, improving sleep patterns, and staying hydrated are all factors that contribute to your weight loss journey. These small changes help you maintain your results and improve your overall quality of life.
Tips for Interpreting Your Results
When tracking your progress with semaglutide, it’s best to weigh yourself at consistent times, such as in the morning before eating. Also, remember that the scale alone doesn’t tell the full story. Pay attention to other changes like improvements in body composition, muscle gains, and how your clothes fit. When you focus on overall health, including your energy levels and fitness progress, you will get a much clearer picture of your success beyond just the numbers on the scale.
FAQs for Semaglutide
How Quickly Will I See Results With Semaglutide?
Results with semaglutide can vary from person to person. Most patients begin to notice some weight loss within the first few weeks of starting the treatment. Significant changes may occur after several months of consistent use, combined with lifestyle adjustments such as a healthy diet and regular exercise. Since weight loss injections like semaglutide work gradually, patience is important as the focus is on sustainable progress over time.
What Happens If I Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take the missed injection as soon as you remember, as long as it’s within five days of the scheduled dose. If more time has passed, skip the missed dose and resume your regular weekly schedule. Do not take an extra dose to make up for the missed one. Missing doses can slow your progress, so try to stay consistent and reach out to us if you need help staying on track.
Will I Have Excess Skin After Weight Loss?
Whether or not you experience excess skin after weight loss depends on how much weight you lose, how quickly the weight loss occurs, and your skin’s elasticity. Genetics, age, and hydration levels can also affect the amount of loose skin. For those concerned about excess skin, there are both surgical and non-invasive options available. Non-invasive skin tightening treatments like radiofrequency or laser-based therapies can help improve skin elasticity after weight loss injections. For more significant cases, surgical options such as tummy tucks may be recommended to remove excess skin and achieve a smoother appearance.
How Long Will I Need to Take Semaglutide for Weight Loss?
The duration of treatment with semaglutide depends on your weight loss goals and how your body responds to the medication. Some patients may use it for several months, while others may continue the treatment indefinitely. Long-term success also depends on lifestyle factors, such as diet and exercise, so it’s important to incorporate healthy habits throughout the process.
What Is the Difference Between Semaglutide and Tirzepatide?
Semaglutide and tirzepatide are both medications used for weight loss, but they have differences. Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, which helps regulate appetite and blood sugar levels. Tirzepatide, on the other hand, is a dual agonist, targeting both GLP-1 and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptors. Trzepatide addresses multiple pathways that influence hunger and metabolism.
What Makes Our Semaglutide Program Different?
Overseen By Double Board Certified Surgeon
At Georgia Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, our semaglutide program is overseen by Dr. Stanley Okoro, a double board-certified plastic surgeon with years of expertise in helping patients achieve their aesthetic goals. With a deep understanding of both cosmetic procedures and medical weight loss, Dr. Okoro takes a comprehensive approach to your care. Having a skilled surgeon guide your weight loss program allows for a medically sound plan that maximizes your results while prioritizing your health and safety.
Continual Care and Monitoring
Our program goes beyond just prescribing semaglutide. We believe that continual care is essential for long-term success. Throughout your weight loss treatment, we provide consistent monitoring of your progress, making any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. Regular check-ins allow us to track how your body is responding to the medication so we can make sure you’re progressing in a healthy and effective way.
Weight Loss Support
We can offer you support on everything from nutrition and other lifestyle changes to weight loss plateaus and challenges. We are here to offer advice and accountability so you can maintain the motivation you need to lose weight.
About Us
Dr. Stanley Okoro is renowned for his expertise in breast and body sculpting. As a Platinum Elite RealSelf expert in breast augmentation, liposuction, tummy tucks, and Brazilian Butt Lifts, Dr. Okoro attracts patients from across the globe, including Europe and Africa, seeking his skills. His extensive experience in body contouring makes our practice the perfect choice for semaglutide treatments, supporting patients in achieving safe and effective weight loss.
How Do I Book a Consultation for Semaglutide Injections?
Semaglutide at Georgia Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery offers a way to manage weight by addressing hunger, supporting healthier eating habits, and improving metabolic health. With regular monitoring and guidance, this treatment can provide sustained results and help you meet your weight loss goals in a healthy and manageable way. To learn more about how we can help you with medical weight loss in Atlanta, GA, fill out the online form or contact us at (770) 485-1554.
All data and information provided within this website and related blog are for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Georgia Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, PC makes no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, correctness, suitability, or validity of any information on this site and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Treatment information and medical recommendations must be made on a case-by-case basis; it is recommended that you seek personalized care from a board-certified medical doctor for any medical questions or health issues you may have. Some photos on this website feature models for illustrative purposes. Photos of actual patients can be found in the before and after photo gallery.
