The use of Ozempic/Wegovy and similar medications such as Mounjaro for weight management is rapidly evolving. As they continue to be studied further and receive FDA approvals, including the approval of Zepbound this month, the question becomes whether they can be a meaningful substitute for bariatric surgery.
Ozempic has been used to treat type 2 diabetes since 2017. When used for weight loss, semaglutide is used at higher doses and marketed as Wegovy. Newer medications such as Mounjaro (tirzepatide) have entered the market for and will be marketed under the name Zepbound for the sole purpose of weight loss.
When combined with healthy lifestyle choices, people can lose 15-20% of body weight over a six month course on semaglutide and up to 25% on tirzepatide. Dr. Bass answers everyone’s biggest questions about the use of these medications for weight loss, including:
- Does insurance help cover the cost?
- Who is a candidate?
- Can these medications be a meaningful substitute for bariatric surgery?
- Does the weight rebound once you stop?
About Dr. Lawrence Bass
Innovator. Industry veteran. In-demand Park Avenue board certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Lawrence Bass is a true master of his craft, not only in the OR but as an industry pioneer in the development and evaluation of new aesthetic technologies. With locations in both Manhattan (on Park Avenue between 62nd and 63rd Streets) and in Great Neck, Long Island, Dr. Bass has earned his reputation as the plastic surgeon for the most discerning patients in NYC and beyond.
To learn more, visit the Bass Plastic Surgery website at https://www.drbass.net/ or follow the team on Instagram @drbassnyc https://www.instagram.com/drbassnyc/
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Contents of this video:
00:00 - What do semaglutide medications do?
02:34 - How much weight can you lose on the skinny shot?
03:01 - What is the role of semaglutide in weight loss?
04:53 - Who is a candidate for the skinny shot?
07:13 - Will insurance cover semaglutide?
10:09 - How will semaglutide affect plastic surgery?
12:39 - Can the skinny shot replace bariatric surgery?
14:46 - FDA approval for Zepbound
