May 02, 2025 | Semaglutide
4 minute read
Struggling with weight loss? You’re not alone. With options like semaglutide, reaching your goals is more doable than ever. While we’re taking a short break to refresh and improve our program, we’re still here to support you every step of the way—especially after your journey. Whether it’s body contouring or facial treatments, we offer options designed to enhance your results and boost confidence.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Semaglutide Injections?
Semaglutide, popularly known under the brand names Ozempic® and Wegovy®, belongs to a class of medications that copy the effects of GLP-1, a hormone that tells your brain you’re full. Semaglutide injections are now widely used in medical weight loss because of the medication’s ability to control hunger. These injections can make you feel satisfied for longer and slow food movement through your stomach.
However, not everyone should take semaglutide. During an initial consultation with a qualified medical provider, they will assess your needs and determine if semaglutide is a good fit. This treatment might be right for you if you have:
- A BMI over 30, or a BMI of 27+ with weight-related health issues.
- A history of unsuccessful weight loss despite diet and exercise efforts.
- No personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer.
- No history of pancreatitis.
- No current pregnancy or breastfeeding status.
- Type 2 diabetes (semaglutide was first created for blood sugar management).
Your medical provider will review your complete medical history to determine if this medication makes sense for your specific situation.
Benefits of Semaglutide for Weight Loss
Taking semaglutide can offer several advantages for people fighting the battle against excess weight. Research shows that this medication works in ways that diet alone sometimes cannot. Many patients report feeling more in control of their eating habits while using this treatment.
Some other benefits of semaglutide injections are:
- Steady weight loss over time (many users lose 10–15% of their starting weight).
- Reduced hunger throughout the day.
- Feeling full after smaller meals.
- Lower blood sugar levels, especially helpful for people with pre-diabetes.
- Better heart health markers like reduced inflammation.
Is Semaglutide Safe?
Yes. Semaglutide injections are FDA-approved for those who are overweight, have diabetes, high cholesterol, or high blood pressure. However, like most medications, it does come with some side effects, like stomach upsets during the first few weeks.
If you’re considering semaglutide, talk to your medical provider to determine if it’s appropriate for your health history and goals.
Can I Take Semaglutide Forever?
There’s no simple yes-or-no answer to this question. When you enroll in a medical weight loss program, you and your provider will meet regularly to monitor your progress and make dose adjustments as necessary. Some patients use semaglutide for about 12–24 months before achieving their desired weight, while others continue longer.
To maintain your ideal weight, it’s not unusual to stay on a smaller maintenance dose after reaching your target. Providers may suggest slowly tapering off while strengthening your eating and exercise habits, and to reduce the possibility of weight rebound. All in all, the decision about how long to stay on semaglutide should be personalized to your journey and health status.
Long-Term Success of Semaglutide
Many people find that semaglutide becomes part of a bigger wellness plan, not a standalone fix. Lasting results typically come from a combination of medication, mindset, nutrition, and movement.
Try getting active several times a week, preparing well-balanced meals, and staying hydrated. These healthy habits can help support your success, whether or not you continue with semaglutide long term.
Post-Weight Loss Body Surgery in Portland, OR
Losing weight—especially through medications like semaglutide—is a major accomplishment, but it can sometimes leave behind excess skin or areas of the body that don’t reflect all your hard work. That’s where we come in!
At Burgess Plastic Surgery, we offer post-weight loss facial and body contouring procedures like tummy tucks, arm lifts, face lifts, and more to help reshape your silhouette after significant weight loss. You’ve worked hard to get here, and we commend you for it! Let us help you feel confident in your skin. Contact us at (503) 905-9255 or complete our online form to take your first step.