Non Surgical Medical Weight Loss at RP Plastic Surgery
Conveniently located to serve Seattle and Bellevue
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What is GLP-1 / GIP (Zepbound) Medication?
GLP-1 / GIP (active ingredient tirzepatide) medication has been FDA approved under the name Zepbound®* for weight loss. Ozempic®* is a GLP-1 only and has the active ingredient Semaglutide as a Type 2 Diabetic medication for control. Ozempic and Zepbound and Mounjaro have gained popularity recently in the media.
Mechanism of Action of GLP-1 / GIP (Zepbound) Medication?
Tirzepatide is the active ingredient that is a GLP-1and GIP agonist. The agonist binds with its receptor GLP-1 (Glucagon like pepetide) and GlP (Glucose dependent insulinotropic polypetide which stimulates the release of insulin and stops the release of glucagon. This controls glucose levels in diabetics and slows down emptying of the stomach. Appetite is suppressed and thereby reducing weight.
Who is an Ideal Candidate for GLP-1 / GIP (Zepbound) Medication for Weight loss?
Ideal candidates are overweight or obese. The FDA recommends for weight loss if you meet one of the following criteria:
- Have a Body Mass Index (BMI) minimum of 27 plus at least 1 of the following; Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol
- Have A Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or more
What is the dosing of GLP-1 / GIP (Zepbound) Medication, and how often do I need the medication?
Zepbound medication is a once a week subcutaneous injection with a small needle injected under the skin. Our staff is available to support this so that optimal dosing is done in a safe way. Generally the dose is kept the same monthly and is adjusted based on the response after assessment. This allows for optimal treatment and results in weight loss.
At RP Plastic Surgery we are available for monitoring weight and assessments at our office location.
How much weight can be lost on GLP-1 / GLP-2 (Zepbound) Medication?
This varies but it has been documented that an average of 5 lbs per month can be lost. There have been patients that have lost 40 – 60 lbs on the medication. Combining GLP-1 Medication with proper diet and exercise can improve the results and assist with faster healthier weight loss.
What is the Cost of GLP-1 / GIP (Zepbound) Medication Wellness Program At RP Plastic Surgery in Seattle?
The cost of the Wellness Membership Program is a non-insured program for $275 per month.
The program is an out-of-pocket expense and does not include the cost of the medication (NO insurance coverage). The program is month to month with no additional fees or cancellation fees.
What does the program include;
- A prescription of FDA approved drug Zepbound (not compounded version of drug) for qualified individuals through Lilly Direct Pharmacy
- The Zepbound medication is from Lilly Direct Pharmacy and has an additional cost ranging from $350 – $600 per month which includes 4 doses once a week. (Pricing is dependent on dose and paid to Lilly Directly)
- The Zepbound medication is delivered to your home by Lilly Direct Pharmacy. We encourage you to bring in the medication to your visits for education and answering any questions you may have.
- All supplies needed for injections (except medication)
- Once a month IV Vitamin therapy in office to boost weight loss (See below)
- Monthly weighing and monitoring by a qualified medical professional
What is the IV Vitamin Therapy Hydration to Boost Weight Loss and Overall Wellness?
The Vitamin Therapy hydration includes specific vitamins and minerals which can aid in weight loss management, however there is limited research on the effectiveness of IV Vitamins in this area.
- Vitamin B12: Can improve energy level. A deficiency can lead to fatigue and less physical activity. Correcting a deficiency may help metabolize fat and carbohydrates more efficiently.
- B- Complex (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6): These help metabolize proteins, fats, and carbohydrates and use them for energy.
- Vitamin C: Minimal studies may suggest That Vit C may reduce (BMI).
- Zinc: Zinc may aid in reduction of BMI and waist circumference. However, these effects may be largely attributed to being in a calorie deficit.
- Magnesium: Mg supplementation may aid in weight reduction and waist circumference in people with DM and HTN.
- Glutathione: Animal studies have shown that glutathione can reduce fat and improve metabolism.
- Biotin: When rapid weight loss occurs, hair loss can occur. Biotin has shown in limited studies to help with hair loss.
Steps to Begin the Wellness Program at RP Plastic Surgery
Step 1: Schedule a Complimentary Telehealth Consultation to see if you a qualify
Step 2: If you qualify lab work will be ordered
Step 3: Labs reviewed by medical professionals – if qualified prescription will be sent to Lilly Direct Pharmacy
Step 4: In- person in office visit for comprehensive education on medication dosing injecting and storing to ensure optimal results
Monthly Follow up:
You will have monthly appointments to ensure you have the best weight loss experience.
One IV Vitamin Therapy included monthly with membership
Discussion of dosing, weight loss to date, symptoms and any other questions to be answered.
What is Ozempic Face?
As we age the ligaments and soft tissues of the face become weaker resulting in sagging of the face. Fat also decreases with advancing age resulting in lack of facial volume. Facial volume is a feature of youth.
The rapid weight loss that can occur with GLP-1 Medication use can reduce the facial fat quickly causing the face to look sunken and lack volume resulting in an older looking appearance.
A balanced diet, routine exercise as well as staying well hydrated can help. Nonsurgical options include dermal fillers like juvederm or restylane (hyaluronic acid) to restore volume of the cheeks and nasolabial areas. Surgical options include fat transfers to the face and facial implants.
What other injections do you offer in Seattle?
At RP Plastic Surgery we also offer: IV Vitamins and Vit B12 injections
IV vitamin infusion can offer B complex, B12, Vitamin C and minerals which can help restore essential vitamins and minerals during your weight loss journey. The hydration component offered with this can reduce dehydration from lack of oral intake, if necessary.
What are Some Common Side Effects of GLP-1 Medication?
Nausea
A more common side effect of GLP-1 Medication. To help with nausea, eating smaller, more frequent meals vs eating a large meal can help. Also avoiding heavy fat meals may help.
Constipation
Constipation may be from reduced food intake or change in diet as well as slower gut motility. Staying well hydrated and a balanced diet may help.
Diarrhea
This may be at random times. It can be related to your body adjusting to the medication or dose adjustment. It is important to seek medical attention if the diarrhea is severe which can lead to dehydration and imbalances.
Belly Pain
Belly pain, cramping or bloating sensation can occur.
Weight Gain
After stopping GLP-1 Medication, the appetite can come back and food intake can increase leading to weight gain once again.
Low Blood Sugar Hypoglycemia
This side effect can occur when in combination with other glucose control medications. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include anxiety, dizziness, feeling your heart racing, blurred vision, sweating and hunger. It is important to seek immediate medical attention if any of these symptoms arise.
Loss of Hair or Thinning Hair
Hair loss can occur possibly from rapid weight loss or lack of protein. This may be temporary thinning or shedding. However there is no direct evidence at this point about hair loss and GLP-1 Medication.
Allergy
Some patients may experience mild allergic reactions to anaphylaxis. It is important to seek immediate medical attention if allergic reactions occur.
Schedule a Consultation
Ready to take the next step toward a healthier, more confident you? At RP Plastic Surgery, our expert team is here to guide you through a personalized, medically supervised weight loss journey using FDA approved drug Zepbound medication. With convenient locations in Seattle and Bellevue, achieving your weight loss goals has never been easier. Contact us today at 425-502-9573 to schedule your consultation.