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FAQ

What is metabolic weight loss?

 

Metabolic weight loss is different from traditional dieting. Metabolic weight loss addresses underlying physiological and behavioral factors—such as hormones, metabolism, and habits—rather than focusing solely on calorie restriction, thus creating more achievable, sustainable long-term results.

 

Who is a candidate for the program?

 

Medication may be appropriate for individuals with a BMI ≥27 with an obesity-related condition, or ≥30 regardless of additional conditions. BMI serves as a clinical guide when considering treatment options.

 

Medication is always optional. Patients can fully participate without it through our core lifestyle pillars—behavior, nutrition, and physical activity. Excellent results can be achieved with or without medication and are primarily driven by engagement, consistency, and commitment to the process.

What sets you apart from other medical weight loss clinics?

What sets Pillars 4 Life apart is our comprehensive Four Pillar approach—built on behavior, nutrition, and movement as the foundation, with medication used thoughtfully and only when appropriate to support the process.

We prioritize depth over volume, taking the time to truly understand each patient’s goals, barriers, and medical history so care is highly personalized—not one-size-fits-all.

We don’t believe in quick fixes. We focus on building sustainable habits that turn health into a way of life—Because lasting health and weight management are achieved through consistent, sustainable habits—not quick shortcuts.

What kind of results can I expect?

 

Results vary depending on a myriad of factors. I have seen people lose no weight and lose as much as 100 lbs. Some variables include patient engagement in the lifestyle pillars of behavior, nutrition, and physical activity, a person’s genetics, their unique metabolism, their level of in their ability to succeed, medication prescribed, among others.

 

What are some common side effects of the medication?

If you are a candidate and are prescribed medication, some common side effects, as well as the benefits and risks will be discussed for each particular medication at your visit. 

How I will get my prescription medication?

Your medication will be prescribed and sent to your pharmacy OR it will be prescribed to a mail order pharmacy in which they will reach out to you, collect payment, and conveniently ship the medication right to your home.

Do you need to have anything from me before my first visit?

Yes—please provide a faxed copy (will accept bringing in person though less preferred) of your most recent PCP visit and labs from the past 6 months (including a CMP). If your labs are older than 6 months, you can update them with your PCP or we can order them at your first visit.

You may still be seen without these, but medication cannot be prescribed until we have both a recent visit note and can see visible labs within 6 months.

What can I expect at each visit?

 

Each visit includes a body composition analysis, physical exam, and vitals, along with a progress review focused on what’s working well. We’ll provide personalized coaching across all four pillars, adjust your plan as needed, answer any questions, and update your treatment plan—along with medication refills or dose adjustments if appropriate.

Do I have to come in weekly?

No—only if you want or need to. Standard care is a 30-minute follow-up at 2 weeks, then monthly visits. Frequency can increase based on your need for support, accountability, or medical guidance. Visits help ensure your plan is working, medications are tolerated, and adjusted as needed.

 

Do you take insurance?

 

No. Unfortunately, insurance companies still refuse to treat and cover most obesity programs and medications despite the American Medical Association (AMA) classifying obesity as a chronic disease in 2013.

How much does it cost?

If you had a personal medical professional guiding you toward lasting weight loss and helping you return to—or discover—your healthiest self, what would that be worth to you?

 

Take a moment to imagine what that version of your health looks like—and what it would feel like to believe it’s truly achievable with the right guidance and support.

 

While no outcome can ever be guaranteed, the right approach, applied consistently, can lead to meaningful and lasting progress in your health.

 

Pillars 4 Life is a new practice built on years of proven clinical results. This is not a volume-based approach—it’s a higher standard of care designed to deliver meaningful, lasting transformation.

At Pillars 4 Life, the focus isn’t on competing on price—it’s on helping you achieve meaningful, lasting health through clarity, structure, and high-quality, individualized care.

Because when you have clarity and confidence in the process, meaningful, lasting change becomes possible.

View Pricing in the "Services" Section

9 Newport Drive, Suite 200
Forest Hill, MD 21050

Phone: 410-417-9195

Hours of Operation:

Monday: 7am - 7pm​​

  • New Hours Coming soon!

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