It’s nothing new for people to turn to prescription drugs as a quick and easy way to lose unwanted fat. Lately, Ozempic has been the most talked-about option.
The FDA approved Novo Nordisk’s drug Ozempic for treating Type 2 diabetes, but it has also shown promising results for weight loss. The company now also markets the drug specifically for weight loss as Wegovy®, approved by the FDA in 2021. These drugs aren’t your only options for fat reduction, however. Other, longer-lasting treatments are available and may be better options for your goals.
Wegovy & Ozempic for Weight Loss: How Do They Work?
Semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy) stimulates the release of insulin, which helps lower blood sugar levels. It also slows down the emptying of the stomach, making people feel full, which leads to reduced calorie consumption.
The Risks and Benefits of Using Ozempic for Weight Loss
Like any medication, Ozempic has its benefits and risks:
Benefits:
- It’s been linked to significant weight loss in clinical studies.
- The drug is self-administered once a week through an injection, making it easy to use.
Risks:
- Nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting
- Long-term acid reflux and heartburn
- Increased risk of pancreatitis
- Aging effects on the face due to volume loss
- Weight gain when the drug is stopped
Unlike certain cosmetic surgical and nonsurgical methods, fat loss from Ozempic can’t be targeted to specific body areas and isn’t permanent.
Effective Drug-Free Fat Loss Solutions
Liposuction and CoolSculpting Elite are two effective drug-free options for reducing fat.
Liposuction: A Tried-and-True Surgical Fat Loss Option
Liposuction is a plastic surgery technique that targets and removes specific pockets of fat from the body using a thin tube known as a cannula. This method is safe and has been proven effective in contouring the body and addressing specific areas of stubborn fat.
An advanced liposuction option is VASERlipo®, which uses ultrasonic energy to break up fatty tissue gently without damaging the surrounding tissues. VASERlipo enables precise targeting of fat deposits and can treat almost any body area.
Fat cells removed from the treatment area during liposuction don’t grow back. However, remaining fat cells can expand, and weight can still be gained in other areas, so it’s essential to maintain a healthy diet and exercise consistently.
CoolSculpting® Elite for Nonsurgical Fat Reduction
CoolSculpting Elite is a noninvasive treatment that freezes and eliminates stubborn fat cells resistant to diet and exercise. This treatment has gained immense popularity due to its effectiveness and lack of downtime.
Most CoolSculpting Elite patients are pleased with their results after just one treatment and experience only mild side effects, such as redness and swelling. The results are gradual and natural-looking, permanently reducing fat cells by up to 25% in the treated area.
Comparing Ozempic With Other Fat Loss Methods
While prescription drugs like Ozempic may seem like a quick and easy solution to weight loss, it’s important to consider their side effects and long-term risks. The long-term effects of Ozempic for weight loss are still unclear, and more research needs to be done on the drug’s safety and efficacy.
Liposuction has been performed and refined for nearly 50 years. It offers immediate and noticeable results and is an excellent option for targeting specific fat deposits on the body.
CoolSculpting Elite is a nonsurgical method that has proven safe and effective for fat reduction since 2010. The treatment requires no downtime, and patients consistently see gradual, natural-looking results.
While Ozempic may be effective for some, weighing its potential side effects against the benefits is important. It’s essential to consult with a qualified medical professional before taking prescription drugs for weight loss or undergoing any surgical or nonsurgical fat loss procedure.
Post-Weight Loss Loose Skin
Many patients who’ve lost weight deal with skin laxity afterward. Our practice offers both surgical and nonsurgical options for tightening and rejuvenating the skin after weight loss.
Post-Weight Loss Volume Loss
In addition to skin laxity, it is common to experience significantly less volume in areas such as the face or breasts after weight loss. Dermal fillers can be used to restore a youthful complexion in areas including the temples, cheeks, and lips. Breast enhancement options are also a great solution for those looking to add fullness and shape back to their chest. Fat transfer can be used to replace volume loss in any area of the body for permanent restoration, and the most popular areas for this treatment are the face, breasts, and butt.
Request a Consultation
If you’re interested in learning more about liposuction, CoolSculpting, or post-weight loss treatment options, call our Torrance, California, office today at (310) 784-0644 or request a consultation.
Check out more liposuction and CoolSculpting Elite before and after photos to see the fat loss results of our previous patients.
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