THE SKINNY SHOT
December Special: Receive a complimentary SkinMedica Firm & Tone Lotion ($165 value) with your initial consultation for GLP-1 weight loss. Contact us today to learn more.
Introducing the Skinny Shot at Westlake Dermatology for medical weight loss. We offer a monthly maintenance program with our physicians, physician assistants, or nurse practitioners who will guide you through your weight loss goals by prescribing and monitoring the most appropriate GLP-1 inhibitor medication, specifically either semaglutides or tirzepatides.
What Are Semaglutides
Semaglutides, the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, work by mimicking a hormone in your body called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). This hormone plays a crucial role in regulating appetite and blood sugar levels. When properly administered, semaglutides slow the emptying of your stomach, helping you feel full more quickly and for a longer period. They also communicate directly with the part of your brain responsible for feelings of fullness and satisfaction, assisting in regulating your food intake. Patients naturally begin to crave unhealthy foods less leading to better choices and reduced calorie intake.
GLP-1 medications like semaglutides are most effective when combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise. These medications are not a standalone solution but a tool to support a comprehensive weight loss strategy.
What Are Tirzepatides?
Tirzepatides are a newer GLP-1 medication that, like semaglutides, is also used to support weight loss by helping to regulate appetite and food intake. However, tirzepatides differs in that it targets two hormones: GLP-1 and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide). This dual action can potentially offer more significant weight loss benefits compared to semaglutides, as it further enhances the body’s ability to regulate both appetite and metabolism.
How do GLP-1 Inhibitors Work?
Semaglutides and tirzepatides were initially developed to aid diabetes patients by enhancing insulin secretion. After further research it was later discovered that GLP-1’s are also a highly effective solution for weight loss. At higher doses, it influences areas of the brain to suppress appetite, improve eating control, and reduce food cravings. The result is a significant decrease in weight as users feel satisfied even though they consume fewer calories each day.
What Are Compound Semaglutides and Tirzepatides?
Compounded semaglutides and tirzepatides refer to formulations that may combine these active ingredients with other supportive substances to enhance their effectiveness. Compound GLP-1’s are custom-made by a pharmacist according to a prescription from a healthcare provider. This approach allows for precise adjustments in dosing to suit individual patient needs, particularly when standard dosages are either unsuitable or ineffective.
How Much Weight Will I Lose?
GLP-1’s are often called “the skinny shot” as they are highly effective in helping patients of all ages to experience significant weight reduction. On average, individuals can lose between 10% to 20% of their initial body weight over the course of a 1-year treatment. Results can vary depending on factors such as the type of GLP-1 used, dosage, adherence to lifestyle changes including diet and exercise, and the patient’s unique metabolic response.
How Quickly Will I Lose Weight?
Most patients will notice weight loss within the first few weeks of starting treatment. However, the most substantial weight loss typically occurs over several months, with a gradual and steady reduction in body weight as the treatment progresses.
Are The Results Permanent?
GLP-1’s like semaglutides and tirzepatides provide long-lasting results. However, patients must maintain their weight loss through long-term lifestyle changes, such as healthy eating and regular physical activity, to preserve the results. If the treatment is discontinued without maintaining these changes, there is a risk of regaining the weight.
Can the Skinny Shot be combined with other treatments?
Many patients find that after losing a significant amount of weight, they benefit from other cosmetic treatments including fillers, tummy tuck, or laser tightening treatments such as Ultherapy or Thermage, to further enhance their results.
Additionally, the Skinny Shot leads to weight reduction throughout the body, but targeted areas of fat may still be addressed with liposuction or Coolsculpting treatments.
How Are Semaglutides and Tirzepatides Used?
Semaglutides and tirzepatides are typically administered through a once-weekly self-injection. We make the process easy by providing training on proper injections as well as pre-filled syringes with appropriate dosing.
The process of self-injection involves:
- Preparation: Choose an appropriate injection site, typically the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Clean the area with an alcohol swab.
- Injection: Using the pre-filled self-injection pen provided, insert the needle at a 90-degree angle and administer the medication.
- Post-Injection: Dispose of the needle safely and monitor the injection site for any irritation.
GLP-1’s are administered via subcutaneous injection, meaning the injection occurs just below the skin. Considered a “shallow injection” there is minimal pain and discomfort.
Who is a Good Candidate for Weight Loss via Semaglutides and Tirzepatides?
Ideal candidates for semaglutides and tirzepatides are individuals who are in good general health with a body mass index (BMI) of 25 or higher who have been unable to achieve their desired weight loss through diet and exercise alone. Ideal candidates are those who do not have a history of thyroid cancer or pancreatic issues.
Candidates should also be committed to making long-term lifestyle changes and must have a clear understanding of the potential benefits and risks associated with the treatment.
Our GLP-1 Weight Loss Process
- Consultation: The weight loss journey begins with a comprehensive consultation where your provider will discuss your weight loss goals and review your medical history. This step is crucial for developing a personalized GLP-1 treatment plan that aligns with your unique needs.
- Weekly Self-Injections at Home: After your consultation, you will begin your weekly self-injections at home. The medication is provided through your chosen pharmacy, and your healthcare provider will ensure you are comfortable with the injection process.
- Monthly Office Visits: To monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan, you will have monthly office visits. These check-ins allow your provider to track your weight loss, assess your overall health, and provide ongoing support throughout your journey.
Every successful weight loss journey is unique. Let us be your partner through it all. Contact us today to learn more about our weight loss programs.