Mounjaro For Weight Loss
Seattle & Tacoma

Mounjaro For Weight Loss
Seattle & Tacoma

Most Americans have attempted to lose weight at least once in their lifetime. Some find success with lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise. However, depending on the patient’s health conditions, starting weight, and various life circumstances, this approach does not work for everyone. Recently, the type 2 diabetes drug, semaglutide, was FDA-approved for chronic weight management. It is a new tool that—along with diet and exercise—can help patients achieve their weight loss goals. Thus, it helps them curate a healthy lifestyle without the stress of hitting plateaus or gaining back weight. Seattle Plastic Surgery proudly offers tirzepatide, the newest FDA-approved, second generation of GLP-1 medication used to treat type 2 diabetes, as an additional injectable weight loss option. The weight loss providers at Seattle Plastic Surgery provide the best tirzepatide injections Seattle and Tacoma offer.

What Is Mounjaro?

Mounjaro is a medication traditionally used to treat type 2 diabetes. It helps lower blood sugar by mimicking two hormones called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). These are two hormones released when eating. These two hormones take on several roles, including stimulating insulin release, regulating hunger, and inhibiting stomach emptying.

In addition to regulating blood sugar, Mounjaro Seattle can also help promote better metabolism and reduce appetite. Many patients would benefit from weight loss and have experienced significant weight loss while taking the medication. Tirzepatide—like semaglutide—is now a potential option for weight loss and chronic weight management.

 

Mounjaro & Weight Loss

In early studies, tirzepatide Seattle significantly lowers a patient’s body weight. Some studies show that tirzepatide for weight loss may even be more effective than semaglutide. After the Food and Drug Administration approved semaglutide for chronic weight management, Mounjaro was then fast-tracked toward approval and is now the newest FDA-approved weight loss medication. 

Like similar medications, our weight loss providers still advise that patients follow an exercise and diet plan as well. This will improve outcomes and create a healthy lifestyle so that patients can eventually maintain weight loss without tirzepatide.

Seattle Plastic Surgery does not just provide the prescription, but we work with each patient to discuss their unique needs. Creating a customized medication plan with a Mounjaro for weight loss dosage that includes monthly virtual or in-person appointments.  We also provide general diet and exercise recommendations. This places patients on a better path to achieving their weight loss goals and long-term results.

 

Benefits & Side Effects

Mounjaro for weight loss comes with many possible benefits for patients. Some of the possible advantages and benefits of choosing tirzepatide injections to lose weight include:

• Significant weight loss of up to or exceeding 20% of their body weight 
• Helps patients feel less hungry
• May help improve metabolism
• Makes it easier for people with conditions that cause weight gain or make it difficult to lose weight to see results (i.e. menopause, PCOS, hypothyroidism, etc.)
• Allows patients to curate a healthier lifestyle without discouraging setbacks and lapses
• Tends to have fewer gastrointestinal side effects than semaglutide
• Convenient treatment regimen
• Safe to take the medication long term
• Most patients experience only mild, temporary side effects
• Dosage and injection schedule customized for each patient
• General diet and exercise plan
• Work personally with a weight loss provider at Seattle Plastic Surgery every month to monitor weight loss and alter treatment monthly in-person or virtually

Whenever a patient starts a new medication, it is normal to experience side effects. Most of the time, side effects are mild and go away as the body adjusts to the new medication or dosage. Mounjaro can cause side effects such as:

• Stomach upset
• Sour stomach
• Diaherra or constipation
• Nausea
• Tiredness

Side effects usually improve or resolve within a couple of weeks. While more severe side effects or risks are possible, they are extremely rare. Some of the risks or severe side effects associated with Mounjaro may include:

• Allergic reaction
• Too low blood sugar
• Trouble swallowing or shortness of breath
• Side effects that do not go away after several weeks
• Swelling of the face, throat, or tongue
• Infection at the injection site
• May increase the risk of certain thyroid or kidney problems
• Unknown risks 

These side effects and risks do not occur in most patients when the medication is dosed and administered correctly. However, some patients may simply not tolerate the medication as well as others. In this case, patients may consider semaglutide or another form of weight loss.

Mounjaro Weight Loss Treatment

Seattle Plastic Surgery’s tirzepatide weight loss program consists of three components: the tirzepatide injections and a general diet and exercise plan. In addition to the basic protocols, Seattle Plastic Surgery’s doctors are on call 24/7, local, and responsible. We are not an online pharmacy and our practice focuses on providing the best and safest care to our patients. 

Injections

The exact schedule and dosage of Mounjaro will vary from patient to patient. Like semaglutide, tirzepatide consists of a weekly injection. However, the instructions given to diabetic patients will differ for weight loss patients due to different needs. In general, patients can expect to inject tirzepatide once a week.

Additionally, Mounjaro injections are easy to self-administer. We understand that many are hesitant or afraid of giving themselves injections. Our local doctors walk patients through it either in person or virtually. Seattle Plastic Surgery also has Seattle-area-based medical clinics where patients can come in for their injections if they prefer.

Diet

The diet plan provided is optimized for people on the medication. In general, it is best to choose foods that contain enough protein, carbohydrates, essential fatty acids, and vitamins. Try to avoid or at least limit alcohol, sugar-sweetened beverages such as sodas, sugary coffees, and fruit drinks, and sweets like candy, cakes, and cookies since they are high in calories but generally lack important nutrients. 

You may also elect to implement strategies such as meal-prepping and intermittent fasting into your routine if that is accessible and helpful for you. 

There is no single “best” weight loss diet for all people. However, any balanced diet will help you to lose weight if you are able to stick with it. Following very restrictive diets, such as those that limit a specific nutrient (fat, carbohydrates, or protein) is not recommended. While these types of diets may help you lose weight quickly, it is easy to regain the weight once you stop following that diet. Therefore, it is important to choose an eating plan that includes foods you enjoy and can be followed long term. 

One commonly recommended diet is a Mediterranean diet, which includes: 

• High levels of monounsaturated fats (from foods such as olive or canola oil, walnuts, pecans, and almonds) and low levels of saturated fats (from butter). 
• High amounts of vegetables, fresh fruits, legumes, and whole grains (7 – 10 servings of vegetables and fruits per day). 
• A moderate amount of lower-fat dairy products, mostly in the form of cheese. 
• A relatively low amount of red meat and meat products. It is recommended to substitute fish or poultry for red meat. 

Exercise

While exercise alone is not likely to result in weight loss, regular physical activity contributes to a healthy weight loss plan and has many other health benefits, such as lowering stress and improving cardiovascular health. In combination with balanced dietary changes, movement helps sustain weight loss and contributes to the overall goal of having your caloric output (calories burned) be higher than your caloric input (calories eaten). 

Exercise does not need to be vigorous, especially when you first begin, and you can start making small changes today. Small changes can look like taking the stairs instead of an elevator, taking a 15-minute walk on your lunch break and/or after dinner, or taking your dog for regular walks. The more you move your body, the more calories you use. The more you enjoy the type of movement you are doing, the more likely you are to do it regularly. 

As long as you are using more calories than you eat, you will sustain or lose weight. Since muscle mass uses more calories than any other type of tissue, it is recommended that you include weight-based exercises that progressively challenge your muscles. It is typically recommended not to challenge the same muscles on back-to-back days because muscles are built during rest and repair after they have been challenged. 

On your non-strength training days, you can mix it up with walks, other activities (see list below), or rest. You may also elect to work certain muscle groups on particular days so you can strength train on more days. Finding what works best for you is a journey, and it is important to remind yourself that what works for you may be completely different than what works for someone else, Try not to become discouraged if you find a particular activity too challenging or unenjoyable, because there is likely something else you will enjoy. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What Happens At A Mounjaro Weight Loss Consultation?

During a consultation with a weight loss provider at Seattle Plastic Surgery, patients meet with a medical provider who specializes in weight loss. This includes plastic surgeons and physician assistants. Patients will discuss their weight loss goals and what has and has not worked for them in the past. Next, the provider will want to understand the patient’s medical history, including medical conditions and medications they take.

Patients get a prescription and first dose during their consultation if their provider thinks they are suitable. The diet and exercise plan is also discussed thoroughly with the patient, and achievable goals are set. After a demonstration of the injections, patients will administer them at home. To monitor results, patients will meet with their weight loss provider once a month.

Consultations are available in person and virtually. Monthly follow-up appointments can also be virtual.

How Does Tirzepatide Compare To Semaglutide?

Both tirzepatide and semaglutide are effective medications for weight loss. Each person’s body will respond differently to various medications. Therefore, Mounjaro will work for some, while others may benefit more from semaglutide. 

Tirzepatide does mimic two hormones in comparison to semaglutide’s one. However, this does not necessarily make it better in every situation. Though, many patients do find that tirzepatide is the second generation of semaglutide, which offers more effective results with fewer side effects. A Seattle weight loss provider will work with the patient to determine the right injectable weight loss solution for them.

Who Is Eligible For Mounjaro For Weight Loss Seattle?

Anyone who wants to lose weight and who would benefit from weight loss. For people with only small amounts of weight to lose, providers generally do not recommend Mounjaro. Patients with certain medical conditions, such as endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 or a family history of certain types of cancers, may not be ideal candidates. People with type 1 diabetes should not take tirzepatide. 

Additionally, if a patient is or plans to become pregnant, they should wait until after they cease pregnancy and nursing. Otherwise, most people can be candidates for Mounjaro for weight loss. Also, if patients have tried semaglutide in the past, they may find tirzepatide is more effective and comes with fewer gastrointestinal side effects.

How Much Weight Can You Lose On Mounjaro?

In clinical studies, patients have lost about up to 20% of their body weight on average. Each patient will react differently, but they can usually expect significant weight loss.

Does Insurance Cover Mounjaro Seattle?

Seattle Plastic Surgery is not currently aware of any insurance coverage for Mounjaro for weight loss.

How Much Does Mounjaro Cost?

The starting cost for Seattle Plastic Surgery’s weight loss plan is a flat rate of  $750 per month. This includes all in-person or virtual visits, monthly prescriptions, and 24/7 availability.  

The Top Provider Of Mounjaro For Weight Loss In Seattle

Seattle Plastic Surgery is located in the First Hill neighborhood of Seattle. Seattle Plastic Surgery proudly provides patients with life-changing aesthetic and gender-affirming care within Seattle’s medical hub. With specialized weight loss experts and a full team to support patients, Seattle Plastic Surgery provides the best Mounjaro Seattle for weight loss Seattle and Tacoma offers.

To learn more and schedule a consultation, call us at 206-324-1120. Patients can also reach out online through chat, contact form,  Price Simulator or via email at [email protected].