Semaglutide & Tirzepatide Medical Weight Loss
Losing weight can be difficult—even with a healthy diet and regular exercise. For many people, hormonal signals that control hunger, metabolism, and cravings make sustainable weight loss challenging. At Synergy Face + Body by Travis Shaw, MD, we offer medically supervised weight loss injections in Richmond and Midlothian, VA designed to help patients lose weight safely and maintain long-term results.
Our weight loss program, guided by Dr. Travis Shaw, uses advanced GLP-1 medications such as semaglutide and tirzepatide, which help regulate appetite and improve metabolic function. When combined with personalized lifestyle support, these treatments can help patients achieve significant and sustainable weight loss.
If you are searching for weight loss injections in Richmond, VA, our experienced team provides comprehensive care—from consultation and medication management to ongoing progress monitoring.
What Are Weight Loss Injections?
Weight loss injections are prescription medications designed to help regulate hunger and metabolism. Many modern treatments belong to a class of medications known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, which mimic a natural hormone in the body called glucagon-like peptide-1.
GLP-1 medications work by:
- Reducing hunger and cravings
- Helping you feel fuller sooner and longer
- Slowing stomach emptying
- Supporting improved blood sugar regulation
Because these medications target the body’s natural hunger signals, many patients find it easier to maintain a healthy calorie intake and develop better long-term eating habits.
Weight loss injections are typically administered once per week, and most patients self-administer the medication at home after receiving instruction from their provider.
Our Weight Loss Program in Richmond, VA
Our medically supervised weight loss program in Richmond focuses on safe, sustainable results.
Initial Consultation
Your journey begins with a detailed consultation where we evaluate your:
- Medical history
- Weight loss goals
- Body mass index (BMI)
- Metabolic health
This helps determine whether medications like semaglutide or tirzepatide are appropriate for you.
Personalized Treatment Plan
Based on your consultation, we develop a personalized plan that may include:
- GLP-1 weight loss injections
- Nutrition guidance
- Exercise recommendations
- Lifestyle strategies for long-term success
Why Choose Synergy Face + Body for GLP-1 Treatment?
Choosing the right provider is essential for safe and effective medical weight loss.
At Synergy Face + Body by Travis Shaw, MD, our program is overseen by Dr. Travis Shaw, a double board-certified plastic surgeon with more than a decade of experience in patient care.
Our Richmond and Midlothian locations provide:
- Physician-guided treatment plans
- Experienced nurse practitioners and physician assistants
- Personalized weight loss strategies
- Ongoing monitoring and support
- A comfortable, patient-focused environment
We serve patients throughout the Richmond area, including Midlothian, Glen Allen, Henrico, and surrounding communities seeking medically supervised weight loss solutions.
B12 Injections
With weight management, Synergy by Travis Shaw M.D. wants to maximize comfort on your journey. B12 injections consist of the injection of Vitamin B12 directly into the bloodstream as an intramuscular shot. B12 injections are typically used to address deficiencies, especially for struggle with fatigue, low energy, or other health issues associated with B12 deficiency, such as anemia, memory problems, or nerve damage.
Benefits of Combining B12 Injections and GLP-1:
- Increased Energy: While weight loss injections help with appetite suppression, adding a B12 injection can provide an energy boost, to counteract any fatigue associated with lower food intake.
- Metabolic Support: Both B12 and GLP-1 support metabolic processes which can promote efficient energy use and enhance fat loss and appetite control.
- Improved Overall Well-being: Weight management injections can sometimes lead to fatigue and/or nausea. B12 injections can help improve mood, reduce fatigue, and prevent the mental fog that sometimes accompany GLP-1.
- Enhanced Fat Loss: B12 can support metabolism, which might help maximize the benefits of GLP-1’s fat-burning properties.
- Synergistic Benefits: Combining both B12 and weight management medication can offer a balanced approach to both energy and weight management!
As with any medical treatment, it’s important to consult with your injector to see if this combination is right for you!
FAQs About GLP-1
How is GLP-1 administered?
GLP-1 is typically administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection. Our team will teach you how to self-administer the medication at home, providing detailed instructions to ensure you feel confident in the process. You’ll feel a quick pinch during injection, but most patients find it very manageable.
How much weight can I expect to lose?
Results vary depending on the medication used, your starting weight, and lifestyle factors. However, many patients experience significant improvements with GLP-1 therapy.
Clinical studies show:
- Average weight loss of 15–20% of body weight
- Appetite reduction within the first few weeks
- Noticeable results often beginning within 4–12 weeks
The most successful outcomes occur when medication is combined with healthy lifestyle changes and consistent follow-up care.
Are there any side effects?
Common side effects may include nausea, diarrhea and constipation. These often subside as your body adjusts to the medication. Our team will monitor you closely and provide strategies to minimize discomfort, ensuring you’re comfortable throughout your treatment journey.
Who is a good candidate for weight loss injections?
GLP-1 is generally recommended for adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater (obese) or 27 or greater (overweight) who have at least one weight-related health condition. During your consultation, we’ll determine if it’s the right choice for you based on your health history and goals.
How long does it take for GLP-1 to suppress appetite?
GLP-1 can begin to reduce appetite within the first few days to weeks of starting treatment. Many people notice early signs—such as feeling fuller faster and fewer cravings—within the first 1 to 4 weeks. Most patients experience noticeable appetite suppression and weight loss between weeks 4 to 12, with some seeing significant changes by week 8. The full effect often builds gradually and becomes more consistent over time, especially as the dose increases to a therapeutic level. Results may vary, and your provider may adjust your dosage based on how your body responds.
Does GLP-1 make you tired?
Yes, fatigue is a common side effect of GLP-1 for some people. Around 10–20% of users report feeling tired during treatment, especially in the early weeks. This fatigue is usually temporary and tends to improve as your body adjusts to the medication. Tiredness may be caused by several factors, including a lower calorie intake due to reduced appetite, gastrointestinal side effects like nausea, or fluctuations in blood sugar levels. If fatigue becomes persistent or severe, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider. They may adjust your dosage or recommend ways to manage this symptom while continuing treatment.