As summer arrives, many of us in the Chicago area are looking for ways to look great by the pool. You may have heard of the “Hollywood Diet,” a new, effective option, commonly referred to as weight loss shots. These innovative medications offer a promising approach to weight management and overall health. Let’s dive into how they work and who is an ideal candidate for this treatment.
Understanding GLP-1 Agonists (Weight Loss Shots)
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) shots are a class of medications originally designed to treat type 2 diabetes. These medications mimic the action of the GLP-1 hormone, which plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels. Over time, researchers discovered an additional benefit: significant weight loss. This has led to the development of GLP-1 agonist shots specifically for weight management.
How GLP-1 Agonist Shots Work
- Appetite Suppression: GLP-1 shots work by signaling the brain to reduce appetite. This helps individuals feel fuller faster and for a longer period, leading to reduced caloric intake.
- Delayed Gastric Emptying: These shots slow down the rate at which the stomach empties, contributing to prolonged feelings of fullness and decreased hunger.
- Insulin Regulation: By improving insulin sensitivity, GLP-1 shots help stabilize blood sugar levels, which can prevent the spikes and crashes that often lead to increased hunger and overeating.
- Promoting Satiety: The increased levels of GLP-1 in the body enhance feelings of satiety, making it easier to adhere to a healthier eating plan.
Who is a Good Candidate for Weight Loss Shots?
GLP-1 shots can be an excellent option for certain individuals looking to lose weight and improve their overall health.
- Individuals with a BMI of 30 or Higher: Those who are classified as obese (with a body mass index of 30 or above) and have not achieved significant weight loss through diet and exercise alone.
- Overweight Individuals with Health Conditions: People with a BMI of 27 or higher who also have weight-related health issues, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or high cholesterol, can benefit from GLP-1 shots.
- Those Struggling with Appetite Control: If you find it challenging to control your appetite and manage portion sizes, weight loss shots can help by reducing hunger and enhancing feelings of fullness.
- Patients Looking for a Medically Supervised Weight Loss Solution: GLP-1 shots should be administered under the supervision of a healthcare provider, making them a suitable option for those seeking a medically guided weight loss program.
- People Committed to a Healthy Lifestyle: While GLP-1 shots can significantly aid weight loss, they are most effective when combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise. Ideal candidates are those ready to commit to a healthier lifestyle.
When is Surgery Appropriate after Weight Loss using GLP-1 Shots?
During or after weight loss there is typically loose skin or stubborn fat that can get in the way of exercise, causes rashes and prevent the proper fit of clothing. Surgery to remove this skin and fat, contour the body, lift the breast, neck or face may be the best option to complete your weight loss journey and complete a healthy lifestyle transformation.
- When you reach your ideal weight: Most patients will achieve their goal weight loss after 6-12 months of GLP-1 shots. The best time to consider surgery is when you have reached your goal weight and been stable for 2-3 months or more.
- When loose skin or stubborn fat is impacting your progress: Some areas of the body like the breasts or a large lower abdominal skin bulge may not be changed with further weight loss. These areas may also prevent a patient from being able to adequately exercise to comfortably lose their final pounds. Surgery may be optimal at this time, in order to assist patients in meeting their goals
- Surgery is not a substitute for weight loss: Weight loss is a whole body process. Surgery to remove skin and fat does not result in weight loss. Liposuction (the removal of fat by cannula) is also not a weight loss solution. The best results from body contouring surgery come when patients are healthy and have stabilized at their goal weight.
Choose Sara Surgery in Morton Grove
At Sara Surgery, we are committed to helping you achieve your ideal self this summer. Our expert team, led by Dr. Sara R. Dickie, offers personalized surgery plans following weight loss that include breast lifts, augmentation, tummy tucks, liposuction, arm lifts and neck lifts, ensuring you receive the best possible care tailored to your needs.
If you’re in the Chicago area and interested in exploring body contouring following weight loss, contact us at Sara Surgery to schedule a consultation. Our compassionate and knowledgeable staff will guide you through the process and help you determine if body contouring surgery is the right option for you. We offer referrals and guidance for patients who are ready to explore GLP-1 weight loss shots to help start your journey. This summer, take the first step towards a healthier, more confident you!
