Weight Loss

Conveniently located to serve the areas of Baltimore, Columbia, Ellicott City and Maryland

Semaglutide is one of the most popular weight loss treatments available today. With a simple injection, semaglutide curbs your cravings and helps you maintain a healthier weight. Originally intended to treat type 2 diabetes, this medication is now FDA-approved to treat obesity by helping the body produce and release proper amounts of insulin.

Metamorphosis Plastic Surgery provides patients with a wide array of cosmetic treatments and procedures. With the help of Dr. Daniel Markmann, we can create personalized treatment plans that address your specific needs. Whether you are looking to improve your body contour with surgery or lose weight safely and effectively with medication, we are eager to support and assist you on your weight loss journey.

Schedule a private consultation to discuss our weight loss program by calling (410) 465-3600 or filling out this convenient form. 

What is Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is part of a class of medications known as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs). It goes by the brand names Ozempic and Wegovy and works to lower glucose levels and stimulate the production and secretion of insulin from the pancreas. It also reduces the release of glucagon and hepatic glucose output. Semaglutide increases satiety and delays gastric emptying, allowing patients to go much longer between meals without feeling hungry. It is known to provide effective glycemic control, which is exactly why it is helpful in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. (1)

How Does Semaglutide Work?

Semaglutide mimics the GLP-1 hormone, a substance released in the digestive system when eating. The prompted release tells the body to produce more insulin, which in turn reduces blood sugar levels. This hormone also interacts with the part of the brain that controls feelings of hunger, actively making you feel more full with less food intake. (2)

We typically prescribe semaglutide for patients who are having trouble losing weight with diet and exercise alone. When incorporated into a healthy weight loss plan, it can greatly advance weight loss in a shorter amount of time. Under an experienced doctor’s supervision, taking semaglutide to boost your weight loss is safe and effective.

Benefits of Semaglutide Treatment

  • Effective weight loss: Semaglutide has been proven to be highly effective in promoting weight loss, making it an ideal treatment option for individuals struggling with obesity or overweight conditions.
  • Reduced appetite: One of the key benefits of semaglutide is its ability to suppress appetite, helping patients feel fuller for longer periods and reducing their overall caloric intake.
  • Improved glycemic control: Semaglutide not only aids in weight loss but also helps regulate blood sugar levels, making it a valuable treatment option for individuals with type 2 diabetes.
  • Enhanced cardiovascular health: By promoting weight loss and improving glycemic control, semaglutide can have a positive impact on cardiovascular health, reducing the risk of heart disease and related complications.
  • Increased energy levels: Shedding excess weight through semaglutide treatment can lead to increased energy levels, allowing individuals to engage in physical activities more comfortably and enjoy a better quality of life.
  • Boosted self-confidence: Achieving significant weight loss with semaglutide can greatly enhance self-esteem and confidence, positively impacting various aspects of an individual’s personal and professional life.

Ideal Candidates

In June of 2021, the FDA approved the use of semaglutide to manage weight for obese or overweight individuals. (2) Semaglutide for weight loss may be an ideal treatment option for individuals who meet the following criteria:

  • Body mass index (BMI) greater than 30: Semaglutide is generally recommended for individuals with obesity, which is defined as having a BMI of 30 or higher. However, individuals with a BMI between 27 and 30 who have weight-related comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure may also be considered candidates.
  • Prior unsuccessful attempts at weight loss: Semaglutide is typically recommended for individuals who have tried other weight loss methods, such as diet and exercise, without achieving significant or sustainable weight loss.
  • Overall good health: Candidates for semaglutide should be in overall good health, free from any medical conditions that may contraindicate its use.
  • Commitment to long-term lifestyle changes: Semaglutide for weight loss is most effective when combined with healthy lifestyle changes, including a balanced diet and regular physical activity. Candidates should be willing to commit to long-term changes for successful weight management.

Personal Consultation at Metamorphosis

We offer private consultations for each of our patients to get to know them and their medical circumstances. You will meet with one of our talented providers to speak about your history with weight gain, relevant or related conditions, and your weight loss journey so far. You will discuss your current health to assess your candidacy for semaglutide treatment. We will then perform all necessary tests to make sure semaglutide is right for you.

How Do I Prepare for Semaglutide Treatments?

To best prepare for this type of treatment, you must first discontinue any other weight-loss medications you may be using. Please avoid NSAIDs like aspirin and ibuprofen to prevent thinning of the blood. Certain herbal supplements and natural remedies can negatively affect or interact with semaglutide treatments, so please avoid substances like vitamin E and ginkgo. Your provider may provide a detailed outline of foods and medications to avoid before you start treatment. Follow their instructions closely to ensure the best possible outcome.

Semaglutide Treatment Plan

We will start you on the lowest dosage and slowly increase it as your treatment progresses. For subcutaneous injections, the initial recommended dose is usually 0.25 mg once weekly for four weeks, followed by an increase to 0.5 mg once weekly. Depending on individual response and tolerability, the dose may be further increased to 1 mg once weekly.

We will monitor your progress as you go to ensure the dosage is correct and to assess when to change it. Your treatment plan lasts anywhere from three to six months or longer depending on your starting weight, preferences, and medical status.

Recovery & Results

Semaglutide typically causes slight headaches and an upset stomach, but there is no associated recovery time. You may feel tenderness or irritation around the treatment site for a few hours afterward.

Treatment often leads to the loss of 5% to 20% of your body weight depending on your starting point. You will notice your waist shrinking and a consistently smaller appetite. If you incorporate regular diet and exercise, your weight loss will stay steady and your results will start to become noticeable after the first few weeks. To maintain your results, continue to take care of your body, exercise often, and regulate your diet even after the end of your treatment plan.

“Ozempic Face”, “Ozempic Body” & “Ozempic Butt”

Sometimes, when a patient loses weight too quickly, the skin cannot “snap back” to its original placement on the body, and sagging results. Dr. Markmann provides comprehensive treatment plans for post-semaglutide body contouring concerns.

Treatments for the Face

FaceTite is a facial rejuvenation treatment that provides excellent skin tightening and contouring results without the need for surgery. This minimally invasive procedure utilizes radiofrequency (RF) technology to effectively tighten loose skin, remodel subdermal adipose tissue (fat), and stimulate collagen production. FaceTite is often referred to as a non-surgical facelift, as it can address various concerns such as jowl reduction, neck tightening, and the treatment of a double chin.

Treatments for the Body

Lifting procedures after massive weight loss help patients remove excess skin and regain a smoother contour, these include but are not limited to the following:

See the Metamorphosis website for more information about post-weight-loss aesthetic surgery.

Cost of Semaglutide Treatment in Baltimore

The total of the Semaglutide treatment program cost will vary between patients depending on their starting weight and length of treatment. There is a standard monthly fee of $450 per month. We will give you the weekly shots or if you prefer, we will train you to do them at home after your most effective dose is determined.

Schedule your consultation today by contacting us online or calling our office at (410) 465-3600.

If you are curious about aesthetic treatments offered by Dr. Markmann at Metamorphosis Plastic Surgery, please read our blog for more information.

FAQ

Q Does semaglutide require a prescription?

A Yes, semaglutide is a prescription medication that should only be used under the guidance and supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.

Q How do I maximize my semaglutide results?

A This treatment is greatly improved with the addition of a structured wellness plan that includes eating a healthy diet and participating in regular exercise. We recommend tracking your progress in a notebook or app to further understand your weight loss path.

Q How fast can I lose 20 pounds using semaglutide?

A The amount of weight you lose during treatment depends on your starting point, overall health, and the length of treatment. If you keep a scheduled regimen, weight loss is typically consistent and remains so throughout your plan.

Q Does semaglutide medication have a peaking point during treatment?

A It typically takes around 5 weeks for your body to keep a consistent amount of semaglutide in rotation with weekly injections.

Q Will semaglutide treatments make me nauseous?

A Many patients experience symptoms of an upset stomach when using semaglutide. To prevent these, we recommend avoiding fatty foods, consuming small portions during meals, and eating all meals in an upright position. 

References

  1. Meier JJ. Efficacy of Semaglutide in a Subcutaneous and an Oral Formulation. Frontiers in Endocrinology. 2021;12. doi:https://doi.org/10.3389/fendo.2021.645617
  2. Ghusn W, De la Rosa A, Sacoto D, et al. Weight Loss Outcomes Associated With Semaglutide Treatment for Patients With Overweight or Obesity. JAMA Network Open. 2022;5(9):e2231982. doi:https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.31982