My wife Christy and I opened Serenity MedAesthetics in November of 2019. We were forced to close two months later due to COVID. It was a rough start, but we are thrilled to have survived COVID and be able to serve the needs of the Acadiana area today. My original physician board certification was in Emergency Medicine, after having attended USL, LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans, and completing my residency in Emergency Medicine at Charity in New Orleans. I continue to work night shifts in the Emergency Department and love taking care of people. When people ask me how I am doing, my usual response is “Fat and Happy.” At my last doctor’s visit, as I stepped on the scale, my BMI for the first time registered in the 30s – even after removing my boots. I made the decision that it was time for a change. I have a six-year-old and my current goal in life is to live long enough to see her attend college or whatever she may decide to do after completing high school.
Despite what some may have you believe, after three and a half decades as a physician, it is my firm belief that weight loss requires decreasing intake. Whether this includes bariatric surgery, medical weight loss, dietary weight loss, or some combination thereof, the final mechanism is decreasing caloric intake. There are some metabolic exceptions which is why I consider it absolutely necessary to have a complete in-person physical exam performed as well as evaluation of laboratory results – a view not shared by all practitioners engaged in weight loss. It is also my firm belief that some exercise is necessary to have a healthy lifestyle. It was with this in mind that I created the Serenity Weight loss program, which includes: (1) evaluation by a health care provider and review of labs; (2) complementary referral to a nutritionist for a dietary consult; and (3) complementary referral to a personal trainer for evaluation and recommendations.
I took the first steps on my weight loss journey on January 1, 2024. At 6’2”, 237 lbs with a BMI of 30.4 and not playing professional football – it was time. After two months, my weight is 219 lbs, my BMI is 28.1, and my height is still 6’2”. I share this not to brag, but rather to share my experiences as I continue along my journey.
My thoughts (for whatever they are worth)
1: Weight loss is a marathon, not a sprint. Many are pleased with losing “x” pounds over “y” months. Unfortunately, many who lose weight quickly, gain back the weight quickly. Losing one pound a week will achieve an appropriate BMI for most people. It is the consistency which is important, not the weight loss. A healthy life requires permanent lifestyle changes.
2: Medical assistance is a bridge. Our providers can help you achieve your BMI goal. It is up to you to maintain that goal. Bariatric surgery and medical supplementation are not the end all be all of weight loss. A healthy life requires permanent lifestyle changes.
3: Diet. Fast food is not good for you and is now rather expensive. We have partnered with Angele at Fixin’2 Be Fit who can provide dietary counseling and also has prepared meals available. The food tastes excellent and is excellent for you. I have found the price to be less than fast food. A healthy life requires permanent lifestyle changes.
4: Exercise. Some exercise is necessary for a healthy life. I don’t have the luxury of time or access to a full-time gym. Nevertheless, I walk/jog for 30 to 45 minutes four times a week. A healthy life requires permanent lifestyle changes.
From my own experience, I started on 2.5mg of tirzepatide, the lowest starting dose. I was pleased with my weight loss in the first month and decided to remain at that dose for my second month. The progression with tirzepatide is 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, with a maximum weekly dose of 15mg. With each dose increase cost increases, and in some instances, so do side effects. I am cautious of medication as I feel that despite TV commercials telling you all the possible horrible side effects, that information is generally ignored. It was with much thought and some trepidation that I began injections. With my current weight loss progress, I plan to remain on my current dosage of 2.5 mg of tirzepatide. Our staff at Serenity can provide concierge medicine on your weight loss journey.
I wish you the very best on your weight loss journey. Serenity is there to support you should you need anything. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or if I can be of any assistance.
Sincerely,
Lee
