OZEMPIC WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM, BELLEVUE

The Origins of Ozempic

Ozempic mimics the GLP-1 hormone, which helps regulate appetite and other related functions. The drug can help lower blood sugar and induce the body to release insulin. Due to this, Ozempic is prescribed to treat type II diabetes. While taking the medication to manage type II diabetes, the patients frequently experienced significant weight loss.

People without type II diabetes can safely take Ozempic for weight loss as long as they do so under the guidance of a medical professional. Ozempic is not an over-the-counter medication and requires a prescription. The medical providers at The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery have created a weight loss program centered around individualized and customized Ozempic weight loss.

Ozempic vs. Wegovy

While both medications contain the same active ingredient and cause similar effects, there are some small differences between the two and how they are used. The primary difference is that Wegovy has a higher maximum dose and a slightly different dosing schedule. Also, while Ozempic is approved for treating type II diabetes, Wegovy is not, and vice versa for Ozempic and weight loss. Ozempic and Wegovy have the same manufacturer and the same active ingredient.

Another difference is that side effects may be slightly more likely or worsened. This is because Wegovy is prescribed at higher doses than Ozempic. Additionally, patients taking Wegovy may be more likely to develop worrisome symptoms of low blood sugar since they are not using the medication to regulate blood sugar.

The Ozempic Weight Loss Program

The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery’s Ozempic weight loss program uses the medication to support weight loss. It then includes a diet and exercise plan curated by a medical professional specifically for the patient. While Ozempic is effective on its own, patients can see better and longer-lasting results when they take steps to change their lifestyle.

Diet

The focus of the diet part of our Ozempic weight loss program is to find a sustainable and balanced way to eat. Everyone has different preferences and needs. Some of the recommendations our providers may apply to nearly anyone, regardless of diet restrictions. For example, some of the diet advice may include:

• Eliminate/Reduce processed foods
• Take in fewer calories than you use
• Avoid sugary drinks
• Increase vegetable and fruit intake
• Drink plenty of water

Our diet plans are designed to not be too restrictive. Patients do not restrict carbs or fats. These diets tend not to be sustainable. Instead, it is finding healthier sources of these necessary nutrients, while also feeling satisfied with the food eaten. 

A provider can adjust the diet plan to meet dietary needs and allergies as necessary. The Mediterranean diet is a frequently recommended plan that includes flavorful food and many possible options. It tends to include fish, chicken, and beans/lentils as sources of protein, with plenty of vegetables and fruits added to each meal and throughout the day.

Exercise

The exercise plan—while important—does little without the diet. It also can be quite daunting for some people depending on their current lifestyle, weight, and condition. At first, the exercise can start slow and steady. Instead of carving out time for 30 minutes of exercise, patients can make small changes every day that help increase activity levels. Some examples may include:

• Taking the stairs instead of the elevator (even if only for one or two flights)
• Walk to nearby places instead of driving
• Stretch before bed or after waking up
• Walk the dog more frequently or further
• Make exercise a social activity
• Do the chores at a brisk pace

If a patient is already comfortable with exercise or when they reach a point of feeling ready to continue, they can start focusing on strength training days and non-strength training days. People with more muscle burn more calories. Therefore, if a patient can add muscle to their body, even a small amount, it can help improve their weight loss. Examples of strength training exercises can include:

• Weight lifting
• Certain forms of yoga
• Push-up
• Squat
• Lunge
• Plank
• Jumping jacks

Performing multiple strength exercises in quick succession can help with building muscle and endurance. With that said, it is important to perform weight training exercises correctly and carefully to avoid injury. If new, start off slow.

Non-strength training days can include activities patients may already enjoy and have more flexibility in activities the patient can do. A few examples of non-strength training exercises include:

• Bike riding
• Swimming
• Playing any type of sport
• Go for a walk
• Jog
• Rock climbing
• Dancing
• Yoga
• Work around the house

There is not one diet or exercise plan that will work for everyone. It is a highly individualized process that may take some trial and error. Our providers work with patients through monthly check-ins to adjust their plans and to help keep them motivated.

Dosage

The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery uses the recommended dosage plan provided by the manufacturer. This can be adjusted if the patient needs it due to side effects or an underlying health condition. However, the recommended dosage plan goes as follows: 

• 0.25 mg for the first 4 weeks – once weekly  
• 0.5 mg for the next 4 weeks – once weekly 
• 1 mg for the following 4 weeks – once weekly 
• 2 mg for the rest of the time & maintenance – once weekly    

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Can You Stay On Ozempic For Weight Loss?

Ozempic is designed as a long-term medication. Patients can safely remain on Ozempic as long as there are no reactions or contraindications present. Sometimes after a patient reaches their goal weight and feels comfortable with their diet and exercise, their provider may agree that lowering the dose is agreeable.

Patients can choose to stop the Ozempic weight loss program at any time. There is no need to wean off the medication unless the patient wants to or chooses to remain at a low dose. It is recommended that Ozempic weight loss patients stay on the medication for a minimum of six months in most cases, but the best results are seen with consistent treatment.

Why See A Provider At The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery For Ozempic?

The providers who prescribe Ozempic at The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery are cosmetic surgeons and physician’s assistants. They assess each patient individually to ensure they are a good candidate for Ozempic. They understand the anatomy of the body and see patients who have both successfully and struggled to lose weight every day. Our surgeons frequently perform skin removal surgeries on people who have experienced massive weight loss.

As aesthetic and cosmetic providers, we understand all of the reasons a patient may want to lose weight and the difference it can make in someone’s life. However, we aim to provide a weight loss program that patients can stick to and feel confident following.

What Is The Cost Of Ozempic For Weight Loss?

The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery offers an Ozempic prescription weight loss program that requires the patient to fill their prescription through a pharmacy of their choosing. This plan costs $199, not including the price of the prescription. However, it does include consultation, diet and exercise programs, monthly check-ins, and 24/7 access to on-call doctors. 

The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery’s weight loss program is not covered by insurance, and it’s up to the patient to see if their provider will cover the cost of medication. 

Ozempic Weight Loss Program, Bellevue

At The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery, our Ozempic weight loss program uses the medication to support healthy weight loss. Vitamin B can help reduce the two most common side effects of nausea and fatigue. Along with the medication, we include a diet and exercise plan to help patients see improved and longer lasting results.

The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery is a premier provider of cosmetic treatments in the Pacific Northwest. Marrying aesthetics and medicine, our providers aim to help patients look and feel their best. Whether that means surgery, injections, skincare, or Ozempic, our qualified medical professionals can help patients reach their goals.

To learn more and schedule a consultation, call us at 425-775-3561. Patients can also reach out online via chat, contact form, or Price Simulator.