Medical Weight Loss

Medical weight loss is a plan you create with your care team to help manage weight in a structured way. It is not a generic diet. Your plan takes your health history, goals and progress into account and can change over time.

For some people, medical weight loss care is their primary treatment. For others, it is used alongside bariatric surgery, either to prepare for surgery or to support post-surgery results.

Treatment Options: What Care May Include

Depending on your needs and the services offered at New Mexico Bariatric Institute, a medical weight loss plan may include:

• An initial health evaluation
• Nutrition counseling
• Guidance on physical activity and daily routines
• Ongoing follow-up
• Prescription weight loss medications, when medically appropriate

Medical Weight Loss, Other Weight Loss Approaches and GLP-1 Medications

Many people are asking about GLP-1 medications and similar prescription treatments for weight loss. These medications have increased awareness of medical weight loss, but they are only one part of the picture.

At New Mexico Bariatric Institute, medication is considered within the context of your full care plan. Some people may benefit from prescription treatment, while others may need a different strategy or a discussion about bariatric surgery. Medical weight loss and surgical weight loss are not competing ideas — they are different treatment options used at different times.

Our role is to guide you through the options and help you choose a plan that aligns with your health needs and personal goals.

Who May Be a Candidate

Medical weight loss may be a good option if you prefer a nonsurgical approach, want medically supervised support, are interested in prescription weight loss medicines, need to improve your health before surgery or want extra help after bariatric surgery.

An evaluation with our team can help you determine if this approach fits your needs.

What to Expect

Most medical weight loss plans start with an evaluation. Your provider reviews your health history, current concerns and goals. Based on this, your team may suggest changes to nutrition, activity goals, regular follow-up visits and, when appropriate, medication.

Your plan can change over time as your team tracks your progress. The aim is not a short-term solution, but a manageable approach to weight that you can continue over time.

Support Throughout Your Journey

Long-term success often depends on consistent support. Your care team is here to help you understand your options, stay engaged with your care plan and make adjustments when needed. Whether your goal is to lose weight without surgery, prepare for surgery or support results after surgery, we are here to help.