Medically-assisted weight loss with semaglutide and tirzepatide is an effective way to control your appetite, improve insulin sensitivity, and optimize your metabolism with a convenient weekly injection. As you age, exercise-resistant fat can develop on the thighs, abdomen, and back which can be difficult to eliminate with changes to your diet. The excess fat can stretch your skin, limit your mobility, and make it difficult to feel comfortable in your clothing.
If you wish to lose weight effectively and safely, our program offers comprehensive support to help you make healthy lifestyle changes during your weight loss journey. Dr. Michael Gartner is a double board-certified plastic surgeon who is well known for his ability to enhance the body with innovative treatments. Our world-class weight loss program offers the latest advancements in medication—semaglutide and tirzepatide– to help you achieve your ideal body shape.
Contact our office today to learn more about our weight loss program and how you can get started:
About Semaglutide & Tirzepatide
Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) are injectable medications that are classified as GLP-1 receptor agonists, meaning your body registers them as the GLP-1 hormone to expedite the natural process of your endocrine system for more effective weight management. Both medications trigger a hormonal response that can help you manage feelings of hunger and increase satiety:
- Semaglutide mimics the GLP-1 hormone, which helps regulate your appetite by promoting a feeling of fullness, slowing down gastric emptying, and reducing food intake.
- Tirzepatide is a dual-agonist that your body registers as both the GLP-1 hormone and GIP peptide, enhancing the feeling of fullness, reducing hunger, and improving insulin sensitivity, which aids in weight management.
Studies have shown significant weight loss results with both semaglutide and tirzepatide. Patients who undergo medical weight loss have experienced weight reductions of up to 15-20% of their body weight. (1)
Compounded Semaglutide & Tirzepatide
Compounded medications are fortified with other vitamins and minerals. While online retailers may offer convenience and seemingly lower prices, there are significant risks involved in obtaining compounded medications through these platforms rather than through a trusted physician. If you are considering compounded medications, it is essential to prioritize your health and well-being by working with a qualified physician who can provide the best care and support throughout your treatment journey.
Quality Control Concerns
Online pharmacies may not adhere to the same rigorous standards for quality and safety as established medical practices. The lack of stringent oversight can lead to inconsistencies in medication formulas. Compounded medications from online retailers might also come from unregulated or less-reputable sources, increasing the risk of contamination or incorrect dosages.
When you obtain compounded medications through a trusted physician, you benefit from a practice that adheres to high standards of quality control. Physicians often work with accredited compounding pharmacies that follow strict guidelines to ensure the safety and efficacy of medications.
Safety and Authenticity
Online platforms may unintentionally or deliberately sell counterfeit or substandard medications. These can pose serious health risks and may not deliver the intended therapeutic benefits. Also, online retailers may not provide medications tailored to your specific needs. This can result in incorrect dosages or formulations that do not address your health conditions effectively. Our personalized approach ensures that the medication you receive is tailored to your specific needs and is safe for you.
Regulation and Oversight
Online pharmacies may operate in jurisdictions with limited regulatory oversight, leading to potential issues with the safety and legality of their products. Online retailers typically do not offer medical supervision or follow-up care, which is essential for monitoring your response to the medication and adjusting your treatment as needed. A trusted physician provides ongoing supervision and follow-up care to monitor your progress, address any side effects, and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan to help you use the medication safely and effectively.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Purchasing medications from unregulated online sources can involve legal risks, including potential issues with counterfeit drugs and violations of prescription laws. Online retailers may not adhere to ethical standards in the handling and dispensing of medications, which can impact the overall quality of care you receive. Physicians adhere to ethical practices and legal regulations when prescribing and dispensing medications. This ensures that your treatment is both legal and ethically sound, providing you with peace of mind. While online retailers may offer a seemingly convenient option for obtaining compounded medications, the risks associated with quality control, safety, regulation, and personalized care are significant. Opting for a trusted physician ensures that you receive high-quality, safe, and personalized medication, accompanied by professional medical supervision and ethical practices.
Semaglutide & Tirzepatide Benefits
Our comprehensive weight loss program is designed to provide effective, sustainable results with several benefits:
- Top-Quality Medications: Not all compounded medications are the same. We ensure that you receive only the highest quality semaglutide and tirzepatide, thanks to our partnership with BuildMyHealth. This collaboration guarantees that our medications are precisely formulated to meet the highest standards, providing you with the best possible outcomes.
- Personalized Approach: We tailor our program to fit your unique needs. Our approach ensures that you receive the appropriate dosage at the right time, optimizing your weight loss journey while prioritizing your health and safety.
- Convenient Delivery: The once-a-week subcutaneous injection promotes adherence to treatment without the hassle of daily dosing. As a licensed provider in both New Jersey and New York, we are proud to offer doorstep delivery of our medications. Whether you are located in NJ, or anywhere in New York, our program is accessible to you, bringing effective weight loss solutions directly to your home.
- Appetite Suppression: Both medications help reduce feelings of hunger, empowering individuals to make healthier food choices and follow dietary guidelines.
- Improved Insulin Sensitivity: The treatment enhances the body’s ability to manage blood sugar levels.
- Better Cardiovascular Health: Weight loss contributes to better cardiovascular health profiles, potentially decreasing risks of heart disease. Semaglutide can also decrease the risk of experiencing cardiovascular conditions. (2)
- Long-term Results: Studies indicate lasting results even after stopping the medication, providing patients with tools for long-term weight maintenance.
Long-term benefits can include sustained weight loss, improved metabolic health, and a reduced risk of obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and hypertension. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider will help monitor your long-term health and progress.
Candidates
Ideal candidates for semaglutide and tirzepatide include individuals who would like to:
- Lose weight quickly and safely
- Achieve natural results
- Make healthy lifestyle changes for sustained weight loss
- Maintain a stable weight
Candidates must be prepared to commit to lifestyle changes and consistently follow healthy habits to reach their goals. If you would like to participate in our medical weight loss program for massive weight loss, we can recommend additional body contouring procedures. If your skin has become stretched from excess fat, a tummy tuck, breast lift, or breast augmentation can emphasize your curves and balance your proportions.
To learn more about the additional procedures we offer, see our blog.
Consultation
During your consultation, Dr. Gartner will ask about your medical history and aesthetic goals to determine the best treatment plan for your needs. Please come prepared to ask questions and discuss your lifestyle. Although some patients take semaglutide and tirzepatide as a temporary weight loss treatment, some decide to stay on the medication as a long-term weight management solution. The duration of your treatment of use will depend on your individual weight loss goals and your body’s response to the medication. Dr. Gartner will assess your progress and determine the appropriate length of treatment. Some individuals use these medications for extended periods for weight maintenance once they reach their goals.
Preparation
To prepare for a semaglutide or tirzepatide treatment you will need to:
- Stop drinking alcohol 24 hours before and after the treatment because alcohol affects your blood sugar levels
- Make arrangements to eat a healthy, balanced diet
- Set aside time for regular exercise
- Schedule your weekly treatments at a convenient time to help you stay on track
You will need to be mentally prepared to make changes to your daily routine and lifestyle to help you stay consistent with eating healthy and exercising regularly. Also, although you can return to your normal routine immediately after the injection, we recommend that you take time to rest after your first treatment to see how your body responds.
Procedure
Both medications are administered via a subcutaneous injection, typically once a week. During your treatment, we will cleanse your skin and use a thin needle to inject semaglutide or tirzepatide into your hip, abdomen, or thigh. You will need to wear comfortable clothing to your appointment that is easy to remove for the injection. The appointment only takes 15-20 minutes, and you can resume your regular routine immediately afterward. If you would like to administer the treatment at home, Dr. Gartner can guide you on the proper technique for self-injection and help you establish a routine for administering the medication.
Recovery & Results
Patients using semaglutide and tirzepatide may start noticing changes in appetite, along with progressive weight loss and better blood sugar management within weeks. The results will depend on consistency with the medication, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle modifications. Ultimately, sustained weight management and health improvements can reinforce personal well-being. While semaglutide and tirzepatide can significantly aid in weight loss, they are most effective when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise to maximize your weight loss results. However, it can take time for your body to adjust to the medication. After your first injection, common side effects can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, or abdominal pain.
Cost of Semaglutide & Tirzepatide in New York
The cost of medically-assisted weight loss with semaglutide and tirzepatide will depend on the amount of weight you need to lose and the length of your treatment. We believe in straightforward, transparent pricing. Unlike many online pharmacies and other practices that increase prices based on dosage or escalate your dose more quickly than necessary, our program offers a fixed cost. This means no surprise fees or hidden expenses as you progress. With our commitment to quality and transparent pricing, you can confidently embark on your weight loss journey.
Contact our office to learn more about how we can help you achieve your goals:
FAQ
Since it can take time for your body to adjust to the medication, some patients experience temporary side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, and abdominal pain after the first injection.
While these medications have proven effective for many people, individual results can vary. Effectiveness can be influenced by factors such as adherence to the treatment plan, diet, exercise, and overall health.
The duration of treatment depends on your goals and medical history. Some may also choose to continue the medication for weight maintenance.
If you miss a dose, we can administer it as soon as possible unless it is close to the time for the next dose. In such cases, you will need to skip the missed dose and return to a regular schedule.
References
- Jastreboff AM, Aronne LJ, Ahmad NN, et al. Tirzepatide Once Weekly for the Treatment of Obesity. New England Journal of Medicine. 2022;387(3). doi:https://doi.org/10.1056/nejmoa2206038
- Mahapatra MK, Karuppasamy M, Sahoo BM. Semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist with cardiovascular benefits for management of type 2 diabetes. Reviews in Endocrine and Metabolic Disorders. 2022;23(3). doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s11154-021-09699-1
