Are you struggling to achieve your weight management goals? At Synergy Face + Body by Travis Shaw MD, we offer FDA-approved, GLP-1 weight management solution that supports long-term success. Our expert team at our Richmond and Midlothian locations is ready to help you on your journey to a healthier you.
What is GLP-1?
GLP-1 medications are a class of treatments that mimic a natural hormone in your body called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). This hormone helps regulate appetite, improve satiety, and support healthy eating habits. As part of a doctor-supervised weight management program, GLP-1 therapies can help you:
- Reduce hunger and cravings
- Feel fuller for longer periods of time
- Support sustainable weight management
These injectable medications have shown remarkable results in clinical studies, helping patients achieve significant weight reduction when combined with lifestyle changes. Unlike many traditional appetite suppressants, GLP-1 medications work directly on the brain’s hunger control centers, making it easier to follow a balanced, calorie-conscious diet.
Our Weight Loss Program in Richmond, VA
At Synergy Face + Body, we offer comprehensive weight management programs tailored to your needs. Our approach includes:
- Initial Consultation: We’ll assess your unique health history and weight management goals to determine if Semaglutide/Tirzepatide is right for you.
- Personalized Treatment Plan: We create a plan combining your treatment with lifestyle recommendations, including dietary guidance and exercise suggestions.
- Regular Check-ins: We monitor your progress and adjust your treatment as needed, addressing any concerns promptly.
- Ongoing Support: Our team provides guidance on nutrition and exercise to maximize your results.
Typically, GLP-1 treatment lasts for at least 6 months, with many patients continuing for a year or more. Long-term maintenance may involve ongoing medication or transitioning to a lifestyle-only approach, depending on your individual needs and progress.
Why Choose Synergy Face + Body for GLP-1 Treatment?
Choosing the right provider for your weight management journey is crucial. At Synergy Face + Body by Travis Shaw MD, we offer more than just medication – we provide a comprehensive approach to help you achieve and maintain your weight management goals.
Overseen by Dr. Travis Shaw, a double board-certified plastic surgeon with a decade of experience, our team ensures you receive high-quality care. We’re committed to helping you achieve your weight loss goals safely and effectively. Your personalized weightloss program will be led by one of our advanced practice providers, PA & NPs.
Our welcoming facility provides a comfortable environment for your treatments. We use advanced techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes. From the moment you step through our doors, you’ll feel the difference in our personalized approach.
B12 Injections
With weight management, Synergy by Travis Shaw M.D. wants to maximize comfort on your journey. B12 injections consist of the injection of Vitamin B12 directly into the bloodstream as an intramuscular shot. B12 injections are typically used to address deficiencies, especially for struggle with fatigue, low energy, or other health issues associated with B12 deficiency, such as anemia, memory problems, or nerve damage.
Benefits of Combining B12 Injections and GLP-1:
- Increased Energy: While weight loss injections help with appetite suppression, adding a B12 injection can provide an energy boost, to counteract any fatigue associated with lower food intake.
- Metabolic Support: Both B12 and GLP-1 support metabolic processes which can promote efficient energy use and enhance fat loss and appetite control.
- Improved Overall Well-being: Weight management injections can sometimes lead to fatigue and/or nausea. B12 injections can help improve mood, reduce fatigue, and prevent the mental fog that sometimes accompany GLP-1.
- Enhanced Fat Loss: B12 can support metabolism, which might help maximize the benefits of GLP-1’s fat-burning properties.
- Synergistic Benefits: Combining both B12 and weight management medication can offer a balanced approach to both energy and weight management!
As with any medical treatment, it’s important to consult with your injector to see if this combination is right for you!
FAQs About GLP-1
How is GLP-1 administered?
GLP-1 is typically administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection. Our team will teach you how to self-administer the medication at home, providing detailed instructions to ensure you feel confident in the process. You’ll feel a quick pinch during injection, but most patients find it very manageable.
How much weight can I expect to lose?
Results vary, but clinical trials have shown that many patients lose 15-20% of their body weight over 68 weeks of treatment. Individual results may differ based on factors such as starting weight, diet, exercise habits and adherence to the treatment plan.
Are there any side effects?
Common side effects may include nausea, diarrhea and constipation. These often subside as your body adjusts to the medication. Our team will monitor you closely and provide strategies to minimize discomfort, ensuring you’re comfortable throughout your treatment journey.
Is GLP-1 right for me?
GLP-1 is generally recommended for adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater (obese) or 27 or greater (overweight) who have at least one weight-related health condition. During your consultation, we’ll determine if it’s the right choice for you based on your health history and goals.
How long does it take for GLP-1 to suppress appetite?
GLP-1 can begin to reduce appetite within the first few days to weeks of starting treatment. Many people notice early signs—such as feeling fuller faster and fewer cravings—within the first 1 to 4 weeks. Most patients experience noticeable appetite suppression and weight loss between weeks 4 to 12, with some seeing significant changes by week 8. The full effect often builds gradually and becomes more consistent over time, especially as the dose increases to a therapeutic level. Results may vary, and your provider may adjust your dosage based on how your body responds.
Does GLP-1 make you tired?
Yes, fatigue is a common side effect of GLP-1 for some people. Around 10–20% of users report feeling tired during treatment, especially in the early weeks. This fatigue is usually temporary and tends to improve as your body adjusts to the medication. Tiredness may be caused by several factors, including a lower calorie intake due to reduced appetite, gastrointestinal side effects like nausea, or fluctuations in blood sugar levels. If fatigue becomes persistent or severe, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider. They may adjust your dosage or recommend ways to manage this symptom while continuing treatment.