Medical weight loss in Medellín

You may also see it called a doctor-supervised weight loss program, physician-guided weight loss or weight management. It's a plan with a medical consultation, lab tests, a nutrition plan and close follow-up, plus prescription medication from your doctor when it's indicated. In Colombia, Law 1355 of 2009 (in Spanish) declares obesity a chronic public health disease.

A widely used measure is body mass index (BMI). According to the CDC, for adults 20 and older, a BMI of 25 to under 30 is overweight, and 30 or higher is obesity. But the CDC also makes clear that BMI is a screening tool: it doesn't tell fat from muscle, and it's considered alongside your medical history, your habits, a physical exam and tests such as blood glucose and cholesterol. That's why your plan isn't based on a number. It's based on your consultation.

According to the CDC, healthy weight loss combines healthy eating, regular physical activity, enough sleep and managing stress. The CDC also points out that some medications, health conditions, hormones, genes and age affect your weight. That's why the plan starts with your consultation and lab tests, and then moves on to your nutrition plan and follow-up visits.

Medication isn't for everyone. If your plan includes one, it's a prescription medication, it's used together with healthy eating and physical activity, and your doctor decides on it at your consultation, after reviewing your history and your test results.

Sometimes weight management is the first step. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) makes clear that liposuction is not a treatment for obesity and that a good candidate for a tummy tuck has a stable weight.

• For your eating habits: nutrition.
• If you want surgery: liposuction or a tummy tuck, once your weight is stable.
• If you have loose skin after losing a lot of weight: body contouring after major weight loss. The ASPS explains that losing a lot of weight quickly doesn't always leave skin that shrinks back.
• If one specific area of fat bothers you: cryolipolysis, or fat freezing (in Spanish).

At your consultation, we'll tell you what makes sense for you.

Every medication has its own contraindications, so before prescribing one, your doctor reviews your full medical history. Tell her if:

• You're pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to get pregnant.
• You've had pancreas or kidney problems.
• You have type 2 diabetes and take diabetes medication, such as insulin, or you've had diabetic retinopathy.
• You have surgery or a procedure scheduled that involves anesthesia or deep sedation.

Every treatment has risks, and weight loss medications do too. If your doctor considers one for you, before prescribing it she'll explain its side effects, which warning signs to watch for and when to call her. Never change the dose or stop taking it on your own.

Be wary of anyone who offers fast results without a consultation or lab tests. A serious medical plan starts with understanding your health.

Your consultation lasts 45 minutes. Bring a list of everything you take: prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins and herbal supplements. The CDC suggests writing down why you want to lose weight and keeping a log for a few days of what you eat and drink, your physical activity and how many hours you sleep. After that come regular follow-up visits.

If your plan includes a medication, follow your doctor's instructions and let her know promptly if you have discomfort that doesn't go away.