Expert Medical Weight Loss Under the Care of a Johns Hopkins-Trained Bariatric Specialist
At Dr. Lalezari’s clinic, we understand that every weight loss journey is unique. Dr. Sepehr Lalezari, MD, FACS, brings his extensive fellowship training from Johns Hopkins Medicine and eight years of specialized bariatric expertise to provide personalized medical weight loss programs tailored to meet the specific needs and goals of our patients. As a board-certified surgeon with published research in weight loss outcomes and a recognized Los Angeles Magazine “Top Doctor” (2021-2024), Dr. Lalezari combines evidence-based medical protocols with individualized care to ensure safe and sustainable weight loss for every patient.
Our comprehensive medical weight loss approach leverages Dr. Lalezari’s deep understanding of metabolic processes, nutritional science, and patient psychology—knowledge gained through his extensive surgical training and ongoing research in obesity medicine. This unique perspective allows us to offer both surgical and non-surgical weight loss solutions under one expert’s care.
What is Medical Weight Loss?
Medical weight loss is a comprehensive approach to losing weight under the direct supervision of healthcare professionals. Unlike commercial weight loss programs, medical weight loss is scientifically tailored to your individual health profile under the guidance of a qualified physician. Dr. Lalezari’s medical weight loss programs include a combination of diet, physical activity, behavioral therapy, and medication management designed to achieve optimal weight reduction while improving overall health.
This physician-supervised approach ensures that your weight loss plan is not only effective but also safe, taking into account your medical history, current medications, and any underlying health conditions that may affect your ability to lose weight.
Features of Our Medical Weight Loss Program:
- Personalized Treatment Plans
Each patient receives a customized weight loss plan based on a thorough medical evaluation conducted by Dr. Lalezari and his team. This comprehensive assessment may include lab tests, metabolic analysis, body composition studies, and detailed discussions about your eating habits, lifestyle, and exercise routines. Dr. Lalezari’s surgical background provides unique insights into the metabolic changes necessary for successful long-term weight loss.
- Professional Guidance from a Bariatric Expert
Our team of healthcare professionals, led by Dr. Lalezari’s expertise in bariatric medicine, includes doctors, registered dietitians, and behavioral therapists who work together to ensure that your weight loss plan is effective, safe, and suitable for your medical needs. This multidisciplinary approach reflects the same comprehensive care model used in Dr. Lalezari’s surgical practice.
- Sustainable Weight Management
We focus on long-term strategies to maintain weight loss, drawing from Dr. Lalezari’s extensive experience helping surgical patients maintain their results. This includes ongoing support, regular monitoring, and modifications to your plan as needed to ensure continued success.
- Evidence-Based Medical Protocols
Dr. Lalezari’s approach incorporates the latest research in obesity medicine, nutrition science, and metabolic health. His published research and continuing medical education ensure that our protocols reflect current best practices in weight loss medicine.
Weight Loss Medications and Supplements
Dr. Lalezari recognizes the value of both prescription and over-the-counter medications to enhance and support safe weight loss, utilizing his extensive knowledge of pharmacology and patient safety protocols developed during his surgical training.
Prescription Weight Loss Medications
- GLP-1 Receptor Agonists (Most Effective Class)
- Semaglutide (Wegovy/Ozempic) – Semaglutide, known as Wegovy or Ozempic, is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that mimics the hormone GLP-1 to regulate appetite and calorie intake. Dr. Lalezari’s experience with metabolic changes in bariatric surgery patients provides valuable insight into optimizing semaglutide therapy. Administered via weekly injection, this medication can result in 10-15% total body weight loss. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain, which typically improve with proper dosing protocols.
- Tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound) – Tirzepatide is a dual receptor agonist (GLP-1 and GIP) that offers enhanced weight loss efficacy compared to single-receptor medications. Dr. Lalezari’s understanding of complex metabolic pathways allows for optimal patient selection and monitoring. Clinical trials show average weight loss of 15-20% of total body weight. This medication is administered via weekly injection and represents the most effective non-surgical weight loss medication currently available.
- Liraglutide (Saxenda) – Liraglutide, marketed as Saxenda, is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that slows gastric emptying, increases feelings of fullness, and reduces appetite. It is administered via daily injection and typically results in 5-10% total body weight loss. Dr. Lalezari’s clinical experience helps optimize dosing to minimize side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and hypoglycemia risk in diabetic patients.
- Traditional Appetite Suppressants
- Phentermine (Adipex-P, Lomaira) – Phentermine is an appetite suppressant that affects the central nervous system, typically prescribed for short-term use due to potential dependence and cardiovascular effects. Dr. Lalezari’s careful patient screening ensures appropriate candidacy. Common side effects include increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, insomnia, dizziness, dry mouth, and restlessness.
- Phentermine-Topiramate (Qsymia) – Qsymia combines phentermine’s appetite-suppressing effects with topiramate, which induces feelings of fullness and reduces cravings. It is a long-term treatment option that can result in 5-10% total body weight loss. Side effects include tingling in the hands and feet, dizziness, taste alterations, insomnia, constipation, and dry mouth.
- Naltrexone-Bupropion (Contrave) – Contrave combines naltrexone, which helps reduce cravings, with bupropion, an appetite suppressant that also enhances energy expenditure. It is used for long-term treatment and may cause side effects like nausea, constipation, headache, vomiting, dizziness, insomnia, and dry mouth.
- Fat Absorption Inhibitors
Orlistat (Xenical, Alli) – Orlistat works by inhibiting the enzyme lipase, reducing the absorption of dietary fats by approximately 30%. Xenical is the prescription-strength version, while Alli is available over-the-counter. Dr. Lalezari provides comprehensive counseling on managing gastrointestinal side effects including oily stools, flatulence, and frequent bowel movements.
- Specialized Medications
Setmelanotide (Imcivree) – Setmelanotide targets specific genetic conditions causing obesity by activating melanocortin 4 receptors. Approved for rare genetic obesity conditions, Dr. Lalezari can determine appropriate candidacy through genetic testing. Side effects include injection site reactions, nausea, hyperpigmentation, and sexual arousal.
- Future Medications in Development
- Retatrutide – Retatrutide is a tri-receptor agonist by Eli Lilly, currently in Phase II trials. It aims to offer enhanced efficacy in weight management through its multi-receptor action targeting GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptors. It is currently not available in the United States as it has not yet received FDA clearance. Approval is potentially anticipated for 2026.
- Rybelsus (Oral Semaglutide) – Rybelsus is an oral form of semaglutide, offering the benefits of GLP-1 receptor agonists in a convenient tablet form. While less effective than injectable forms, it provides an option for patients who prefer oral medications. It is effective in regulating appetite and aiding in weight loss, with side effects similar to its injectable counterpart.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Weight Loss Medications and Supplements
- Orlistat (Alli)
Alli is the over-the-counter version of orlistat, working by inhibiting the absorption of dietary fats. It has similar gastrointestinal side effects as its prescription counterpart, Xenical, including oily stools and flatulence. Dr. Lalezari provides guidance on proper use and dietary modifications to minimize side effects.
- Natural Supplements with Evidence Support
- Caffeine – Caffeine increases energy expenditure and fat oxidation, making it a common ingredient in weight loss supplements. While it can boost metabolism by 3-11%, side effects may include increased heart rate, jitteriness, insomnia, and digestive issues.
- Green Tea Extract – Green tea extract contains catechins and caffeine, which may boost metabolism and aid in weight loss. It is commonly found in weight loss supplements and can cause side effects such as nausea, constipation, and increased heart rate.
- Garcinia Cambogia Extract – Garcinia cambogia contains hydroxycitric acid (HCA), which may inhibit fat production and suppress appetite. Available in various supplement forms, it may cause digestive issues, headaches, and dizziness.
- Glucomannan – Glucomannan is a dietary fiber that absorbs water and expands in the stomach, promoting feelings of fullness. It is often taken before meals as a supplement and can cause digestive issues like bloating and gas if not taken with sufficient water.
- African Mango (Irvingia gabonensis) – African mango is a fruit native to West Africa and is popular as a dietary supplement for weight loss. It is believed to help reduce body fat and improve metabolic health, though it may cause mild digestive issues.
These prescription and over-the-counter options provide various mechanisms and effects for those looking to manage their weight. Dr. Lalezari’s medical expertise ensures that any weight loss medication or supplement is appropriate for your individual health needs and medical history.
Benefits of Choosing Our LA Medical Weight Loss Clinic
- Expert Care from a Fellowship-Trained Specialist
Receive care from Dr. Lalezari, a Johns Hopkins-trained bariatric surgeon with eight years of specialized experience in weight loss medicine. His unique combination of surgical expertise and medical weight management provides unparalleled insight into successful long-term weight loss strategies.
- Comprehensive Support Team
From nutritional counseling to psychological support, our comprehensive program covers all aspects necessary for successful weight loss. Dr. Lalezari’s multidisciplinary approach mirrors the comprehensive care provided to his surgical patients.
- Health Improvement Focus
Beyond losing weight, our program aims to improve your overall health, addressing conditions like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Dr. Lalezari’s understanding of obesity-related comorbidities ensures comprehensive health optimization.
- Seamless Transition Options
Unique to our practice, patients who require more intensive intervention can seamlessly transition to surgical options under the same expert care, ensuring continuity and optimal outcomes.
Who Should Consider Medical Weight Loss?
Medical weight loss under Dr. Lalezari’s care is suitable for individuals who:
- Have a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or higher with obesity-related health conditions
- Have a BMI of 30 or higher regardless of health status
- Have tried traditional diet and exercise routines without success or with only short-term success
- Are looking for a structured, medically supervised program to manage weight-related health conditions
- Want expert guidance on weight loss medications and their appropriate use
- Prefer non-surgical options but want care from a bariatric specialist
- Are considering bariatric surgery but want to explore medical options first
What to Expect from Your First Visit
During your initial consultation at our clinic, Dr. Lalezari and his team will conduct:
- Comprehensive Medical Assessment
A detailed review of your medical history, current health conditions, medications, previous weight loss attempts, and family history conducted by Dr. Lalezari personally.
- Advanced Body Composition Analysis
An assessment that provides detailed information about your body fat percentage, muscle mass, visceral fat, and water retention using state-of-the-art technology.
- Metabolic Evaluation
Laboratory studies including thyroid function, insulin resistance markers, lipid profile, and other relevant metabolic parameters.
- Goal Setting and Treatment Planning
Together with Dr. Lalezari, you will set realistic weight loss goals and discuss the best evidence-based strategies to achieve them, including medication options if appropriate.
- Nutritional Counseling
Initial consultation with our registered dietitian to develop a personalized nutrition plan that complements your medical treatment.
Advanced Weight Loss Strategies
- Combination Therapy Approaches
Dr. Lalezari’s expertise allows for sophisticated combination therapies, including:
- Multiple medication protocols for enhanced effectiveness
- Integration of prescription medications with lifestyle modifications
- Coordinated care with endocrinologists and other specialists when needed
- Transition Planning
For patients who may benefit from bariatric surgery in the future, Dr. Lalezari provides seamless transition planning and preparation, ensuring optimal timing and outcomes.
- Long-term Maintenance Protocols
Drawing from his experience with surgical patients, Dr. Lalezari implements proven long-term maintenance strategies to prevent weight regain.
Frequently Asked Questions About Medical Weight Loss
Weight loss varies depending on the specific treatment plan and individual factors. With newer medications like tirzepatide, patients typically lose 15-20% of their total body weight, while traditional approaches may result in 5-10% weight loss. Dr. Lalezari will provide realistic expectations based on your specific plan.
Many insurance plans cover medical weight loss consultations and some medications, particularly for patients with obesity-related health conditions. Our insurance specialists work with your provider to maximize coverage.
Most effective weight loss medications are designed for long-term use. Dr. Lalezari will discuss the appropriate duration based on your individual needs and response to treatment.
Dr. Lalezari's unique expertise allows for seamless evaluation of surgical options if medical management is insufficient. This continuity of care ensures you always have access to the most appropriate treatment level.
All medications can have side effects, but Dr. Lalezari's experience allows for proper patient selection and side effect management to maximize benefits while minimizing risks.
Initial appointments are typically monthly, with frequency adjusted based on your progress and medication needs. Dr. Lalezari believes in close monitoring to ensure optimal outcomes and safety.
Get Started on Your Path to a Healthier You
If you’re ready to take the first step towards a healthier and happier life under the expert care of a fellowship-trained bariatric specialist, our medical weight loss clinic in Los Angeles is here to help. Dr. Lalezari’s unique combination of surgical expertise and medical weight management provides patients with comprehensive, evidence-based weight loss solutions.
Why Choose Dr. Lalezari for Medical Weight Loss:
- Fellowship-trained bariatric surgeon with 8+ years of specialized experience
- Board-certified FACS with extensive research in weight loss outcomes
- Recognized as Los Angeles Magazine “Top Doctor” (2021-2024)
- Published researcher in obesity medicine and surgical outcomes
- Comprehensive approach combining medical and potential surgical options
- State-of-the-art facilities in Downtown Los Angeles and Long Beach
Contact Dr. Lalezari’s clinic today to schedule your consultation. We are dedicated to helping you achieve your weight loss goals and significantly improve your health through expert medical supervision and cutting-edge treatment protocols.
Dr. Sepehr Lalezari is a board-certified bariatric surgeon with fellowship training from Johns Hopkins Medicine. Individual results may vary. This information is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with Dr. Lalezari or a qualified healthcare provider before starting any weight loss program or medication.
