Traditional Weight Loss Program
Our adult weight loss program involves a combination of FDA approved prescription medications and natural supplements combined with diet and exercise. The main effects of the medications are to decrease overall appetite and cravings while increasing an individual’s metabolism and energy level. Individuals will not only feel less hungry, but will also feel full quicker from their meals and hence eat smaller portions. There are no frozen or boxed foods. We believe our patients should be eating real food, just making smarter choices and eating smaller portions. Consumption of regular food makes the transition from weight loss to maintenance much easier, as individuals will be eating the same types of food during the program. You will see the doctor on the first office visit as part of your initial evaluation, as well as throughout your weight loss journey. This is an important element of losing weight because each person's program is designed specifically for their individual needs. We do not use a generic formulas. Sometimes the medications, diet, or exercise program must be changed in order to keep achieving optimum results. There is no “one size fits all” model that works for everyone and this makes the continual doctor evaluation so important to help people reach their goal weight no matter what obstacle presents itself.
Semaglutide Weight Loss Program
What is semaglutide and how does it work? Semaglutide is a medication that was originally developed to treat people with diabetes. During its development, it was observed that patients were not only controlling their sugar better but also experiencing weight loss, hence it is now marketed as both a diabetic treatment and weight loss drug. The weight loss effects observed with semaglutide are experienced in both diabetic and nondiabetic individuals (so you do not have to be diabetic to obtain its benefit). It has several mechanisms that are believed to be responsible for weight loss. One is the ability to slow gastric emptying, which means slowing how quickly the stomach empties or processes food. This can help patients feel full sooner during a meal and eat smaller portions. Secondly, it diminishes a person’s overall appetite by affecting areas in the brain associated with calorie intake, which in turn leads to less food consumption. The medication is administered once a week under the skin via a small injection that is painless. We couple our semaglutide program with B12 shots administered once every two weeks in the office. Patients are placed on a moderate diet and exercise program.
Tirzepatide Weight Loss Program
Tirzepatide is an advanced prescription medication used to support weight loss by helping regulate appetite, blood sugar, and metabolism. It works by mimicking two natural hormones in the body, GLP-1 and GIP. It has several mechanisms that are believed to be responsible for weight loss. One is the ability to slow gastric emptying, which means slowing how quickly the stomach empties or processes food. This can help patients feel full sooner during a meal and eat smaller portions. Secondly, it diminishes a person’s overall appetite by affecting areas in the brain associated with calorie intake, which in turn leads to less food consumption. Many patients find that tirzepatide helps make it easier to follow a structured weight loss plan. When used as part of a medically supervised program, it can be a powerful tool for individuals struggling with weight management. The medication is administered once a week under the skin via a small injection that is painless. We couple our tirzepatide program with B12 shots administered once every two weeks in the office. Patients are placed on a moderate diet and exercise program.
Kids Weight Loss Program
The kids’ weight loss program is similar to the adult program in that it is also physician-supervised. The doctor will provide education on nutrition and exercise and may utilize a combination of medications to help decrease appetite and cravings. This in turn will help kids feel satisfied while eating smaller portions. The goal is for kids to eat less and still feel satisfied rather than struggling with hunger throughout the day. Exercise and healthy eating are critical for all children who enroll in the program in order to start instilling lifelong healthy habits. Although we provide many of the critical tools needed to help initiate and continue the weight loss process, having the family involved is of the utmost importance. If the child is trying to follow a healthier lifestyle and the rest of the family is not, getting long lasting results will be extremely difficult. The doctor takes great pride in restoring a child's self esteem as they are losing weight and begin their path toward a healthier lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is physician-supervised medical weight loss?
Our physician-supervised medical weight loss program begins with Dr. Valdes reviewing your medical history, overall health, and weight loss goals. After evaluating your needs, he recommends the most appropriate treatment plan, which may include oral medication, injections such as semaglutide, or both. Patients are typically seen every two to four weeks for follow-up visits to monitor progress, make adjustments when needed, and receive continued support throughout the process.
Who is a good candidate for semaglutide or tirzepatide?
A good candidate for semaglutide or tirzepatide is someone who has struggled to lose weight through diet and exercise alone and may need additional medical support. After reviewing your medical history, overall health, and weight loss goals, Dr. Valdes can determine whether either medication is an appropriate option for you. Treatment recommendations are always based on your individual needs and medical evaluation.
How much weight can patients typically lose?
Each patient’s typical weight loss can vary based on their starting weight, overall health, treatment plan, and consistency throughout the program. At South Florida Weight Loss & Wellness, we offer a one-month program for patients who want to lose 8 to 10 pounds and a three-month program for patients who want to lose 24 to 30 pounds.
How soon can patients start seeing results?
Patients can often start noticing results within the second week of treatment. By that point, many patients have already lost a few pounds and are feeling encouraged by their progress. Patients notice they feel full faster, which can make portion control easier and help them stay consistent with their medical weight loss program.
How long do patients usually stay on a medical weight loss program?
It is completely dependent on the patient’s goals. If a patient only wants to lose around 10 pounds, the program is typically about one month. Most patients begin with a smaller goal, feel encouraged by their progress, and decide to continue treatment to lose even more weight. In many cases, patients stay on the program for two to three months or longer. We have individuals that need to only lose 10 - 15 lbs and others that want to lose 80 - 100 lbs or more, hence length of treatment can vary significantly between patients.
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What happens after I reach my goal weight?
Once you reach your goal weight, the focus shifts to maintaining your results. Many patients see this as graduating from the program. During your final consultations, Dr. Valdes reviews any adjustments that may be needed to your food choices, exercise routine, and daily habits to improve your chances of maintaining your weight loss long-term. Many patients feel confident in their ability to maintain their results, and we are always available if they need additional support.
What should I expect when starting treatment?
Within the first couple of days, many patients notice more energy, better focus, and a clearer mind. The program helps patients feel fuller faster, which supports portion control and makes it easier to stay consistent with their plan. These early changes often strengthen the patient’s motivation.
