Medically Supervised Weight Loss Membership
Offered at our convenient location in Raleigh, NC
Our medically supervised weight loss membership is focused on improving your health and lifestyle to help you achieve sustainable weight loss. Weight loss is a challenging endeavor, especially when exercise and dieting alone are not effective. We combine nutritional plans, medications, and lifestyle recommendations, all under the guidance of Dr. Amber L. Allen.
Compounded GLP-1 medications are not FDA-approved. They may only be offered under specific federal guidelines and are not reviewed for safety, efficacy, or manufacturing quality by the FDA.
Dr. Allen is a boarded general surgeon and a certified cosmetic surgeon recognized by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery. She has established herself as a leader in her industry with over a decade of experience. She founded Allen Aesthetic Surgery to help patients of all backgrounds live more confidently and comfortably.
If you are ready to explore different options for your weight loss journey, we invite you to schedule a consultation online. If you have any questions or would prefer scheduling your consultation over the phone, our Raleigh office can be reached at (919) 676-5052.
Contents
About Medically Supervised Weight Loss
Our medically supervised weight loss membership is specially designed to improve your weight loss potential. We offer a program tailored to your unique body, health history, and lifestyle. It combines medications, nutrition guidance, expert oversight, and supportive coaching to help you reach your goals.
Unlike various dieting fads, medications such as semaglutide or tirzepatide are analogs of naturally occurring GLP-1 and GLP-2 hormones, designed to enhance satiety and digestive efficiency.
GLP-1 Peptides/Medications
GLP-1 medications can help reduce your appetite and help you feel fuller for longer periods. (1) They can also regulate your blood sugar and insulin levels, which may help to reduce your cardiovascular risks as you lose weight.
GLP-2 Peptides/Medications
GLP-2 medications help improve your overall gut function and support your intestinal absorption. When paired alongside GLP-1 medications, it can help minimize certain gastrointestinal side effects often experienced when adjusting to the regimen, such as nausea, bloating, or constipation. GLP-2 medications bind to the GLP-2R receptors, which support cell survival and prevent cell death. Optimizing gut health and nutrient absorption will also help you regulate your overall energy levels and metabolism. (2)
Benefits
Enrolling in Dr. Allen’s medically supervised weight loss program offers significant benefits, such as:
- Professional Guidance: Losing weight with the guidance of Dr. Allen means working toward your goals with safe and effective measures.
- Customized Plans: Each treatment plan is personalized to your unique health history, physique, and goals, ensuring tailored results.
- Long-Term Success: Not only is the program designed to help you achieve long-term weight loss, but it also equips you with the knowledge and skills to maintain your lowered weight without relying on medications.
- Improved Overall Health: Weight loss can drastically reduce the risk of cardiovascular conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure.
- Increased Confidence: As you achieve your weight loss goals and hit significant milestones, you may experience improvements in your self-esteem and confidence.
- Behavioral Change Skills: Through nutritional planning, you can learn how to recognize and adopt healthier eating habits for sustained change.
Candidates
You may be a suitable candidate for our medically supervised weight loss membership program if you are interested in improving and managing your long-term weight loss efforts. This treatment is highly recommended if you have previously struggled to lose weight through healthy lifestyle habits or are experiencing at least one weight-related condition. If you have a gut or digestive condition and are trying to lose weight, our medical supervision and support can help you safely reach your goals without compromising your health. (2)
Candidates should maintain realistic expectations and be ready to commit to long-term lifestyle adjustments for optimal results. You should also be in good general health without any underlying medical conditions that may impact your ability to receive this treatment.
Personal Consultation
You will need to schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Allen and her team before starting your treatment. Consultations are $100 at Allen Aesthetic Surgery, but this amount is credited back to you if you begin your treatment within 90 days of your initial consultation. A consultation is essential for personalizing your treatment to help you achieve your goals.
During the consultation, Dr. Allen or another wellness specialist will discuss what our treatment entails and all the services we offer. We will discuss your current prescriptions and medical history, perform a physical evaluation, and explore your concerns and goals. With this information collected, we will develop a treatment plan centered around you and your needs.
If you are ready to take the first step in your weight loss transformation, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Allen online. If you have any questions or would prefer scheduling your consultation over the phone, our Raleigh office can be reached at (919) 676-5052.
Preparation
Dr. Allen or her team will provide you with a set of tailored instructions to help you prepare for the start of your treatment. You may be instructed to undergo certain medical tests or lab work to ensure you are ready to start your medication. It is strongly recommended to start incorporating healthy lifestyle choices such as regular exercise and eating a balanced and nutritious diet in advance. You should also be drinking plenty of fluids to maintain your hydration levels. Any further instructions will be provided to you during your consultation.
Our Treatment
At the start of your treatment, Dr. Allen or another member of her team will teach you how to administer your medication so that you can do it safely within the comfort of your own home. You will learn how to properly store your medications in your refrigerator. Dr. Allen and her team will also start monitoring your health and help you adhere to your set nutrition plan.
Both GLP-1 and GLP-2 are administered as subcutaneous injections. Our GLP-1 peptide/medication is administered once a week, and the injection site is rotated between the abdomen, thigh, and upper arm. Dosages typically start at 0.25 mg and are gradually adjusted depending on how your body responds. (1)
Our GLP-2 peptide/medication is administered daily with the recommended dose starting at 0.05 mg a day. The injections are administered within the abdomen, alternating each day to avoid overusing a singular area. (2)
Recovery and Results
You may experience certain side effects when beginning your treatment. Common effects include constipation, bloating, or nausea, though these will gradually subside as your body adjusts to the medications. Many patients notice an increase in energy and focus. They also experience a decrease in appetite and hunger. Your dosage may be altered based on how you respond to your new treatment plan. Throughout your treatment, our team will be here each step of the way to support and guide you.
As you continue your regimen, the results of your treatment will become more noticeable. Significant weight loss is possible, helping you reach a healthier body composition that aligns with your goals. Dr. Allen’s oversight also helps those with certain digestive or gut concerns achieve sustainable and safe weight loss.
Corresponding Procedures
Skin Removal Surgery After Weight Loss
Many patients often find that after losing weight rapidly, their skin has become inelastic and will not retract. This can cause irritation or chafing, and many patients describe it as a frustrating hurdle to face after finally losing significant weight. After hitting your weight loss goals, Dr. Allen can perform skin removal surgery after weight loss to reduce excess skin and sculpt your body. These procedures will enhance your daily comfort and confidence in your defined silhouette, helping you reach the finish line in your weight loss journey.
Cost of Medically Supervised Weight Loss Membership in Raleigh
The cost of your weight loss membership will vary depending on the details of your individual treatment plan. During your consultation, Dr. Allen will discuss all costs associated with our weight loss program.
To learn more about the cost of your medically supervised weight loss membership, we encourage you to schedule your personal consultation online or call our Raleigh office directly at (919) 676-5052.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Compounded GLP-1 medications are not FDA-approved and are not equivalent to any branded products. Always consult a licensed medical provider.
FAQ
How much weight can I expect to lose when enrolled in the program?
The results will vary between individuals and are determined by your personal goals, adherence to the program, and natural body response.
Will I need to take special medications to lose weight?
Dr. Allen and her team prescribe GLP-1 and GLP-2 to help you achieve your weight loss goals; however, we additionally offer nutrition planning and other services, as this is not a one-size-fits-all program but a tailored medical treatment.
What happens if I hit a plateau when trying to lose weight?
Plateaus are common when undergoing significant weight loss transformations. Dr. Allen and her team can help adjust your medication or overall program to reignite your weight loss efforts.
Can I return to my old eating habits after my program?
Long-term weight management often requires permanent lifestyle changes, including healthy eating and regular exercise.
References
- Sharath Kommu, Whitfield P. Semaglutide. Nih.gov. Published February 11, 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK603723/#article-162828.s4
- Pálsson TG, Gilliam-Vigh H, Jensen BAH, et al. Targeting the GLP-2 receptor in the management of obesity. Peptides. 2024;177:171210. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.peptides.2024.171210