November 07, 2024 | Semaglutide
Semaglutide is the newest and hottest tool to help those who struggle with weight loss. Originally developed as a diabetes treatment, this medication has gained attention for its ability to help with weight reduction. However, not all semaglutide products and programs are created alike. This comprehensive guide breaks down the uses of semaglutide for diabetes and weight management while highlighting potential aesthetic concerns, helping patients understand the full scope of treatment.
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What Is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is a medication in the class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. GLP-1 is a natural hormone in your body that controls the release of insulin, which regulates blood sugar levels.
This medication is relatively new: it was developed by Novo Nordisk in 2012 and FDA-approved in 2017 for the treatment of diabetes under the brand name Ozempic®. In the years following its release, researchers noticed the drug’s effects on weight loss. Eventually, semaglutide was FDA-approved for chronic weight management.
Semaglutide for Diabetes
Semaglutide was initially intended for use by people with type 2 diabetes. The medicine helps the body control blood sugar by triggering the release of insulin and helping the liver produce less sugar.
Semaglutide for Weight Management
For weight loss patients or patients with obesity, medical experts believe semaglutide works in a number of ways:
- Appetite Reduction: Semaglutide seems to affect the part of the brain that controls the appetite, leading patients to feel less hungry and eat less as a result.
- Slower Digestion: Semaglutide slows the emptying of the stomach, leading patients to feel full for longer. This can help with food cravings and overeating.
- Blood Sugar Regulation: By regulating insulin and blood sugar, semaglutide can improve caloric intake and how the body uses energy.
Although these effects of semaglutide are still being studied, the drug is considered clinically effective for weight loss, and many patients have already experienced positive results in weight management applications.
Other Benefits of Semaglutide
Both diabetic and weight loss patients can benefit from other effects of semaglutide. Research suggests that semaglutide may reduce the risk of stroke in patients with type 2 diabetes. Another clinical trial cites high-quality evidence that indicates semaglutide reduces blood pressure in patients without diabetes. Finally, cardiologists at Yale Medicine report that Wegovy®, another branded form of semaglutide, may reduce the risk of heart disease and major heart events in overweight patients without diabetes.
Weight Loss and Aesthetic Concerns
Semaglutide has helped thousands achieve significant weight loss, but such rapid fat loss can lead to aesthetic concerns, such as loose or sagging skin on the face and body. Terms like “Ozempic® face” and “Ozempic® body” have become popularized as more and more people lose weight with semaglutide. However, these effects are due to generalized fat loss as well as reduced collagen and elastin in the skin, not the medication itself.
Fortunately, aesthetic medicine can address these changes. El Paso board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Frank Agullo offers a range of solutions to help patients look and feel their best after weight loss.
Ozempic® Face Treatments
Visible lines and wrinkles in the face caused by rapid weight loss can be deeply upsetting to patients. Thankfully, several treatments are available to restore the face to a smooth, youthful appearance. Dr. Agullo offers non-surgical options such as dermal fillers and radiofrequency skin tightening treatments, as well as classic surgical options like facelifts and fat injections to restore facial volume and youthfulness.
Tummy Tuck
If weight loss has left you with loose, hanging skin in the abdominal area, a tummy tuck can help. During a tummy tuck, Dr. Agullo removes excess skin and fat and repairs weakened abdominal muscles. The result is a flat stomach and slimmer waistline.
Liposuction
Sometimes, weight loss can result in unexpected distribution of fat pockets. Liposuction sculpts the body by targeting stubborn fat deposits to reveal more visible muscle definition and a slender silhouette. This procedure can be combined with others for more comprehensive body contouring.
Post Weight-Loss Body Contouring
For patients who need more extensive reshaping, Dr. Agullo combines techniques like liposuction, tummy tuck, and lower body lift in one weight loss surgery to achieve stunning, transformative results.
Want to Learn More About Semaglutide in El Paso, TX?
Have you been struggling to lose weight with diet and exercise alone? Under the supervision of board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Frank Agullo, semaglutide injections may be an effective solution. To learn if you are a candidate, schedule an appointment with Dr. Agullo today by calling our office at (915) 590-7900 or completing our online contact form.
