How Semaglutide Injections Help Support Long-Term Weight Loss

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Jaimie DeRosa, M.D., F.A.C.S.

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7/1/2025

For many patients, injectable weight loss medications like semaglutide have opened the door to sustainable weight loss by working with the body's natural systems instead of fighting against them. At The DeRosa Center, double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Jaimie DeRosa and our team of wellness specialists offer semaglutide injections as part of a holistic approach to long-term weight management in Boston, MA. 

Here, you'll learn more about what makes semaglutide different — like its ability to curb hunger and quiet food noise —and how it can help reset your relationship with food, hunger, and weight. 

 

Should I start semaglutide? 

Semaglutide may be worth considering if you've struggled to lose weight through diet and exercise alone. Originally developed to manage type 2 diabetes, semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that can also offer substantial weight loss benefits. The medication mimics a naturally occurring hormone that signals satiety, slows digestion, and stabilizes blood sugar. Arguably, however, one of its most impactful effects may occur in the brain, where it interacts with hunger-regulating centers like the hypothalamus to reduce cravings and hunger cues. 

 

How fast can I lose weight on semaglutide? 

Weight loss results with semaglutide vary based on the patient, dosage progression, and lifestyle factors. That said, many studies have shown that patients using semaglutide for weight loss often experience a 10 – 15% reduction in body weight over time. Most people begin to notice changes within the first few weeks, but it typically takes a few months to achieve more dramatic results. 

The process of weight loss with semaglutide is intentionally gradual. Because semaglutide is titrated up slowly to avoid some of the more common side effects of GLP-1s, your body has time to adjust, and your weight loss can progress in a steady, sustainable way. 

 

Will I gain weight back after stopping a GLP-1? 

It's possible to regain some weight after stopping semaglutide, especially if the medication was the primary reason for reduced appetite and calorie intake. However, the goal of using GLP-1 injections is not just to lose weight temporarily but, instead, to create a new equilibrium where patients learn to maintain progress through mindful habits, balanced eating, and continued support. 

Patients who experience the most lasting success are those who use their time on semaglutide to build structure, adjust portion sizes, and tune into natural hunger cues. At DeRosa Center, our team provides patients with a supportive, informed care plan that includes lifestyle recommendations alongside medical therapy. 

 

How can I avoid weight gain after stopping injections? 

Patients who maintain weight loss after stopping semaglutide tend to adopt healthy and consistent habits, including the following:  

  • Continue structured eating habits 
  • Prioritize protein and fiber intake 
  • Stay consistent with physical activity 
  • Check in regularly with our team (or your semaglutide provider) 
  • Make gradual changes when adjusting medication 

We are proud to offer ongoing guidance to help patients learn how to taper semaglutide thoughtfully, ensuring that results are preserved and new patterns are sustainable after injections stop. 

 

Should I use semaglutide vs. tirzepatide for weight loss? 

Both semaglutide and tirzepatide are GLP-1 receptor agonists, but tirzepatide also targets a second hormone receptor known as GIP, which may offer enhanced appetite regulation and metabolic effects for some patients. While semaglutide is already well studied and widely used for both diabetes and weight loss, tirzepatide has shown even greater weight loss outcomes in certain studies. 

Still, that doesn't mean one or the other is better. At The DeRosa Center, treatment decisions are made based on each person's health history, preferences, and response to medication. For many patients, semaglutide provides significant, life-changing benefits. Others may benefit more from tirzepatide. The most important factor is choosing a treatment plan that is safe, effective, and sustainable for your long-term goals — and we are here to help you choose between semaglutide vs. other GLP-1s to set you on a path toward success you can feel confident about. 

 

Lose weight and help keep it off with semaglutide injections in Boston, MA  

At The DeRosa Center, our weight loss specialists are proud to offer both semaglutide and tirzepatide as part of a medically supervised weight loss program tailored to individual goals. Whether you're looking to lose a few pounds or take control of a lifelong struggle with weight, we are here to support your progress each step of the way. Start your journey toward a healthier, happier, slimmer new you by calling our friendly team to schedule your consultation for GLP-1s in Boston, MA today. 

 


Excellent experience because of expert physicians and and wonderful and knowledgeable staff.Thank you so very much

N.E. Google

Dr. DeRosa is an absolute rarity and total pleasure to work with. She has taken the time and had patience with me throughout my consultation process, mini lift surgery and post surgery. She and the entire staff at The DeRosa Center have been outstanding and very accessible from the start of my journey to its conclusion. I am over the moon with the results, I still look like myself but just a younger, more beautiful version! The healing process was clearly explained to me and I was surprised at how well I looked after only a short time. I highly recommend Dr. DeRosa, she is one of the kindest and most caring and talented plastic surgeon I have had the privilege of being a patient of and I am grateful for the wonderful experience.

C.P. Google

Great just great

T.M. Google

Madisen is such a lovely girl!!

C.R. Google

Always a wonderful experience!!!

N. Google

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