Semaglutide

Conveniently located to serve the areas of Honolulu, HI

Semaglutide Athena Clinic Plastic Surgery, led by Dr. Daniel Murariu and Dr. Robert Peterson

Semaglutide is a medication that has recently gained attention for its ability to aid in weight loss. It is classified as a GLP-1 receptor agonist, which means it mimics the effects of a gut hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. (1)

If you would like to explore medically-assisted weight loss with a personalized semaglutide regimen, please schedule a consultation with one of the expert providers at Athena Clinic Plastic Surgery, led by Dr. Daniel Murariu and Dr. Robert Peterson. We are excited to offer this innovative weight loss treatment for our patients. We often discuss it with patients undergoing liposuction, as a way to prevent weight regain until the body readjusts or resets its weight set point. Schedule your consultation by completing our online inquiry form today. If you have any further questions, please feel free to call our office at (808) 944-8551.

About Semaglutide

Semaglutide is an injectable medication developed initially for individuals with Type 2 diabetes but has now emerged as a significant option to help eligible patients lose weight. Clinical studies have shown that semaglutide can lead to substantial weight loss by regulating appetite and enhancing insulin sensitivity when taken regularly. Semaglutide is often sold under brand names like Ozempic and Wegovy; at Athena Clinic Plastic Surgery, we offer a compounded version of semaglutide instead of these trademarked options. Compounded semaglutide is less costly than the name-brand options, allowing the medication to be more accessible to the patients who can benefit from it. Compounded semaglutide works in the same way that the name-brand options do, activating GLP-1 receptors to achieve appetite suppression and improved metabolic functions related to insulin sensitivity. (1)

This medication is a subcutaneous injection, which means it is injected beneath the skin. Semaglutide reduces hunger signals sent to the brain and promotes feelings of fullness after smaller meals. Over recent years, many patients have sought semaglutide as a tool for weight loss, especially when standard lifestyle changes have not yielded the desired results.

Semaglutide has also been extremely effective at suppressing the “food noise” effect that many patients struggle with. (2) “Food noise” refers to the addiction-like mental fixation on food, keeping thoughts of food and eating ever-present in one’s mind. Semaglutide regulates hormones to silence this persistent focus on food, allowing patients to overcome food addictions with ease.

Research suggests that semaglutide can play a pivotal role in reducing body weight and supporting those struggling with metabolic syndrome. By improving cardiovascular health, managing diabetes, and promoting weight loss, this medication presents a holistic approach to obesity treatment.

Benefits

Patients taking semaglutide can experience significant weight loss, especially when they combine the medication with regular exercise and a healthy diet. With a personalized semaglutide regimen from Athena Clinic Plastic Surgery, patients can experience benefits like:

  • Significant weight loss: Studies show that patients using semaglutide can lose between 15% and 20% of their body weight over time.
  • Improved blood sugar control: Semaglutide enhances insulin sensitivity, which is crucial for blood sugar regulation.
  • Reduced appetite: By signaling brain receptors, semaglutide reduces hunger pangs, making it easier to stick to a healthy diet.
  • Sustainable weight maintenance: Many individuals find that the weight loss achieved with semaglutide can be maintained over the long term.
  • Support for heart health: Semaglutide has been shown to lower the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes in individuals with diabetes.
  • Fewer side effects compared to alternatives: Unlike other weight-loss medications, semaglutide generally has milder side effects based on clinical trial reports.
  • Enhanced quality of life: Patients often find improvements in mobility and energy levels, positively impacting their daily lifestyle.
  • Evidence-based results: Clinical trials demonstrate semaglutide’s effectiveness, ultimately reassuring patients about its benefits.

Candidates

Ideal candidates for a customized semaglutide regimen include adults who want to achieve a moderate amount of weight loss, especially in those patients undergoing liposuction. One of the effects of liposuction surgery is brain signaling to regain weight and return the body to its previous set point. Patients should be ready to commit to a healthier lifestyle, including dietary modifications and increased physical activity. Patients should also have discussed using semaglutide during consultations with their primary healthcare providers. It is critical for potential users to have realistic expectations about the medication, as semaglutide is most effective when combined with lifestyle changes.

Consultation

A personal consultation is essential for determining whether semaglutide is the right choice for you. During your visit to Athena Clinic Plastic Surgery, we will assess your medical history and discuss your weight loss goals. A thorough examination will also consider any underlying medical conditions, ensuring a tailored treatment plan. We also recommend changes in diet and ways to live a more active lifestyle; we are happy to provide further resources if needed.

At the end of the consultation, you will leave with important information regarding dosage guidelines, expected results, and any potential lifestyle changes you would benefit from adopting. Contact us at (808) 944-8551 to schedule your private consultation, or complete our online inquiry form to schedule your consultation online.

Preparation

Once semaglutide is deemed appropriate for your weight management, you will receive specific pre-treatment instructions. Please inform your physician of any existing medical conditions, allergies, or medications you are currently taking. Doing so will allow your Athena Clinic Plastic Surgery provider to discuss potential interactions with other drugs. We will ensure that you understand self-injection techniques if you will be administering your medication at home. If you would prefer, you can come into our office to receive your weekly doses. Patients need to maintain healthy exercise and dieting habits as they follow their semaglutide regimen as well.

Procedure

The process of initiating semaglutide therapy primarily involves patient education and instruction. The medication requires weekly subcutaneous injections, which can be performed in the comfort of your home or by a professional at our office. An ultra-thin needle is used to deliver the medication just beneath the skin, usually in areas less visible, such as the abdomen or upper thigh. Your provider will explain how to rotate injection sites and monitor your body’s response to the drug. Regular follow-ups will ensure your treatment remains effective, allowing for adjustments if necessary. (1)

Semaglutide relies on a few different mechanisms of action to achieve its weight management results. As a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, it binds with the human GLP-1 receptors, which leads to insulin secretion and delayed gastric emptying. (1) This works to keep patients fuller for longer periods after consuming less amounts of food. Semaglutide also helps to increase metabolism.

Results

Results from utilizing semaglutide can vary depending on individual factors, including adherence to a weight loss protocol and lifestyle changes. Clinical trials indicate that significant weight loss occurs over time with continuous use. Most users report noticeable reductions in their body weight, improved appetite control, and heightened energy levels. Long-term commitment to healthier eating habits and physical activity is vital for achieving sustainable results. Depending on the dose, studies show that patients can lose up to 4-5% of their body weight after the first 12 weeks of semaglutide use alongside exercise, and healthy dieting. (3)

Corresponding Procedures

Semaglutide Athena Clinic Plastic Surgery, led by Dr. Daniel Murariu and Dr. Robert Peterson

As weight loss with GLP-1 medications becomes more common, many patients are seeing impressive results. When done in conjunction with a liposuction procedure, avoiding weight regain or even a small weight loss of a few pounds makes the results look even better. Once the body’s weight set point has been reset, we would want to slowly taper off the medication.

However, if taking semaglutide for a lot of weight loss happens, we are also now seeing patients present with sagging, excess skin on their bodies and faces, colloquially being referred to as “Ozempic body” and “Ozempic face.” When a significant amount of weight is lost in a short time frame, the skin is often unable to quickly adapt to a smooth, tight contour on the body, leaving it sagging or “ptotic.” Fortunately, there are many different body and facial rejuvenation procedures available to address these concerns. Tummy tucks (abdominoplasty) and facelifts (rhytidectomy) are common procedures that remove excess skin and tighten muscles to give patients a smooth, healthy, and toned appearance to their bodies and faces. Skin tightening devices such as radiofrequency with Thermage or Potenza or helium-based Renuvion are available.

Cost of Semaglutide in Honolulu

The total cost of your semaglutide regimen will depend on the dosages required in your treatment, the length of your treatment, and a few other factors. We offer compounded semaglutide, which is less expensive than name-brand options. Our practice also offers various financing options for our procedures and treatments. After your consultation, you will receive a cost estimate for your treatment as well. Schedule your consultation today to begin a new chapter in your weight loss journey. If you have any further questions, please call our Honolulu office at (808) 944-8551.

FAQ

How long does it take to see results from semaglutide?

Most patients start noticing weight loss results within a few weeks of regular use, with substantial changes becoming more apparent over the first six months.

Can I combine semaglutide with other weight loss treatments?

It is possible to combine semaglutide with diet and exercise programs. However, consult with your specialist to ensure no adverse interactions occur with other medications. You cannot take semaglutide if you are already taking a different GLP-1 medication.

How should semaglutide be stored?

Semaglutide should be stored in the refrigerator and kept away from direct sunlight until needed. Allow it to reach room temperature before administering the injection.

References

  1. Kommu S, Whitfield P. Semaglutide. PubMed. Published February 11, 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK603723/
  2. Hayashi D, Edwards C, Emond JA, et al. What Is Food Noise? A Conceptual Model of Food Cue Reactivity. Nutrients. 2023;15(22):4809-4809. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15224809
  3. 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