Deciding to have plastic surgery is a serious decision. It requires thorough research, diligent preparation, and a healthy and patient mindset. For those planning for procedures like tummy tuck, body lift, or breast lift surgery, weight loss and consistent weight management before surgery can play a critical role in both the safety of your procedure and its final outcome. Within the past two years, GLP-1 agonists, such as semaglutide and tirzepatide, have emerged as effective treatments in the fight against obesity and weight loss resistance. Edina Plastic Surgery now offers a comprehensive GLP-1 agonist-based medical weight loss program through our medical spa, Skin Artisans. Let’s explore the potential benefits of utilizing this weight loss method to reach your goal weight and maintain it before scheduling your procedure with us!
Understanding GLP-1 Agonists
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) agonists are injectable medications that mimic the action of a natural hormone in the body that helps control appetite and satiety. Brand names of these medications include Ozempic®, Zepbound®, Mounjaro®, and Wegovy®. Compounded versions include semaglutide and tirzepatide. When injected, these medications promote insulin sensitivity, help control blood sugar levels, and slow gastric emptying. When used in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, clean eating, and positive eating behaviors and habits, GLP-1 agonists can lead to significant weight loss. At Skin Artisans, your GLP-1 medical weight loss program is completely personalized based on your current weight and goals and overseen by our Hormone Optimization and Medical Weight Loss Specialist, Rachel Snyder, APRN, CNP.
Who is a Good Candidate for GLP-1 Agonist Weight Loss?
If you are currently obese (BMI of 30 or higher), overweight (BMI of 25 or higher), or have consistently struggled with your weight and have hypertension, Type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol as a result, you may be a good candidate for this method of weight loss therapy. In addition, if you prefer a medically-supervised program that prioritizes behavioral changes and requires you to be accountable and committed to lifestyle change, the Skin Artisans medical weight loss program may be right for you.
6 Benefits of Losing Excess Weight Before Plastic Surgery Surgery
#1 – Motivation and Commitment
Embarking on a weight loss journey can serve as a powerful motivator for individuals considering plastic surgery. As patients begin to experience tangible results and success from their efforts with GLP-1 medications, they may feel more empowered and committed to maintaining their goals. Plastic surgery is often positioned as the final reward to reaching a goal weight because it can address the loose, sagging skin that frequently accompanies dramatic weight loss. This heightened motivation can positively impact post-surgery adherence to lifestyle recommendations, such as regular exercise and nutritional modifications, helping patients maintain and even enhance their surgical results over time.
#2 – Reduction in Comorbidities
Being overweight or obese is often associated with various health issues, including diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea. By losing weight through the use of GLP-1 agonists before surgery, patients can improve their overall health and reduce the risk of these comorbidities. This can lead to a smoother surgical experience and lessen the chance of complications during your procedure.
#3 – Improved Surgical Outcomes
Research supports the link between pre-surgery weight loss and improved surgical outcomes. Weight loss can decrease the risk of complications during and after surgery, including infections and issues related to anesthesia. A healthier weight also enhances blood circulation and helps ensure more efficient healing post-surgery. By utilizing GLP-1 agonists, patients can achieve substantial weight loss over a relatively short period, increasing the likelihood of a successful procedure.
#4 – Better Aesthetic Results
For many patients, the goal of plastic surgery is to achieve a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing physique. Excess weight can affect the results of various surgical procedures. For instance, individuals undergoing liposuction can only have a certain amount of fat safely removed with each procedure. Therefore, it benefits a liposuction patient to be near their ideal weight before surgery. In addition, procedures that remove excess skin, like body lift, tummy tuck, and breast lift, are most effective when a patient is near their ideal weight, so their surgeon can remove a more significant amount of excess skin and tighten the remaining tissue. By leveraging GLP-1 agonists before surgery, patients can get closer to their ideal weight, ultimately complementing the surgical outcomes and enhancing satisfaction with their appearance after surgery.
#5 – Long-Term Weight Management
One of the significant advantages of GLP-1 agonists is their effectiveness in promoting sustained weight loss. As patients progress through their weight loss journey at Skin Artisans, they learn valuable habits regarding nutrition and lifestyle changes, such as prioritizing lean protein in meals and consuming more vegetables and fiber. This education can be beneficial before and after plastic surgery, as maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for achieving and preserving surgical results.
#6 – Enhanced Confidence
Undergoing plastic surgery can be a transformative journey, and stepping into the operating room with added confidence can make a significant difference in how you feel about the process. Achieving a healthier weight with the help of GLP-1 agonists prepares you physically and mentally for surgery, allowing you to face your surgery day with a positive mindset, excitement, and the reassurance that you have done everything you can to ensure the best results possible!
While the benefits of using GLP-1 agonists for weight loss are significant, consulting with a healthcare professional is essential to ensure these medications are appropriate for your circumstances. A personalized approach, like the one offered at Skin Artisans, is vital to evaluate your health history, consider potential side effects, and establish a comprehensive plan integrating your weight loss goal with future procedure at Edina Plastic Surgery.
Making the decision to undergo plastic surgery is a personal choice, and prioritizing your health and well-being is fundamental to achieving the best possible results. By harnessing the power of GLP-1 agonists, you can lay the groundwork for a successful surgical experience and a more confident future!
Are you interested in learning more about GLP-1 agonists and Skin Artisan’s medical weight loss program? Schedule a complimentary consultation with Rachel Snyder, APRN, CNP, at our Edina location to learn more. Call (952) 592-4196 or text (952) 767-3163 to get started!
Schedule a complimentary consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon at Edina Plastic Surgery to discuss any of the procedures we offer by calling (952) 234-6145, texting (952) 925-1765, or CLICKING HERE.
