Weight loss treatment is not one-size-fits-all. Some patients benefit from medical weight management, while others may achieve better long-term results with bariatric surgery. For some, the most effective approach may involve a combination of treatments over time.
Dr. Miya Yoshida offers personalized weight loss management in Orange County to help patients find an approach suited to their health and goals.
What Are Medical Weight Loss Treatments?
Medical weight loss is a physician-guided approach that may include nutrition and lifestyle recommendations, ongoing monitoring, and prescription weight loss medications when appropriate.
GLP-1 and related medications have expanded the options available to patients by helping regulate appetite, hunger, and food intake. However, medications are not the right choice for everyone.
Patients who need or desire a surgical approach may also explore bariatric surgery, including procedures such as sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass.
Benefits of Physician-Guided Weight Loss
A personalized weight loss program may help provide:
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Treatment based on your health and medical history
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Access to appropriate weight loss medications
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Professional monitoring and follow-up
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Support for sustainable lifestyle changes
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A clear understanding of surgical and nonsurgical options
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Adjustments to treatment as your needs change
The goal is not simply to lose weight quickly. It is to develop a strategy that supports better long-term health.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What medications are used for weight loss?
Several FDA-approved medications may be considered, including GLP-1 and related therapies. The appropriate medication depends on your health, medical history, goals, and insurance coverage.
2. Do I have to take weight loss medication forever?
Not necessarily, but obesity is a chronic condition and weight regain can occur after medication is discontinued. Your physician can help determine an appropriate long-term strategy.
3. Is medical weight loss better than bariatric surgery?
Neither option is automatically better. The right treatment depends on your BMI, health conditions, previous weight loss efforts, goals, and personal preferences.
4. Can medications be used before or after bariatric surgery?
Yes. For some patients, weight loss medications may be incorporated before or after bariatric surgery as part of a broader treatment plan.
5. How do I know where to start?
A consultation allows Dr. Yoshida to review your health, weight history, and goals and discuss which treatment options may be appropriate. You can also use the BMI calculator as a helpful starting point.
Explore Your Weight Loss Options
You do not have to decide between medications and surgery before speaking with a specialist. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Yoshida to discuss a personalized approach to weight management.
