As the national obsession with weight loss medications like Ozempic and Wegovy continues to surge, a deeper and more pressing conversation is beginning to unfold—one that cuts through the noise and centers real patient outcomes, medical truth, and long-term health. Leading that conversation is Dr. Angelina Postoev, MD, FACS, a triple board-certified surgeon and founder of IBI Healthcare Institute. With a background that blends elite surgical training from the Cleveland Clinic with firsthand experience as an immigrant entrepreneur and patient advocate, Dr. Postoev is calling for a reset in how we talk about these drugs.
In 2023 alone, more than 9 million prescriptions were filled for GLP-1 medications like Ozempic in the United States. But now, the other side of the story is emerging. A 2024 study published in The Journal of Obesity revealed that nearly 68% of patients using Ozempic regained weight within six to twelve months after stopping the drug. Alongside weight fluctuations, patients are also grappling with complications, unpredictable access due to pharmaceutical tariffs, and soaring prices driven by global supply chain disruptions. For many, the once-promised miracle is beginning to feel more like a moving target.
“We are not beating a dead horse,” says Dr. Postoev. “We are finally having the conversation we should’ve started when Ozempic first hit the market.” In her multi-location practice spanning Georgia and soon expanding to Orlando, Dr. Postoev sees thousands of patients annually—many of them women who are seeking sustainable solutions and a clear, medically grounded path forward.
What makes Dr. Postoev’s approach different is her insistence on reality over hype. She emphasizes that GLP-1 medications are not magic. They are prescription drugs, and like any treatment for a chronic condition, they work best as part of a broader strategy. While the public narrative around Ozempic has been driven by sensationalized social media content and oversimplified headlines, Dr. Postoev is committed to providing education rooted in long-term care, not quick fixes.
She routinely counsels patients on what to expect, especially those frustrated by weight regain. “Obesity is a chronic disease, and if we’re treating it as such, then the treatment must also be ongoing,” she explains. “We pair GLP-1 medications with additional therapies tailored to the individual—hormone replacement for postmenopausal women, surgical interventions for severe obesity, lifestyle and nutritional guidance. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, and that’s okay.”
Despite the advances in bariatric and non-surgical interventions, many of the most effective tools remain underutilized. Dr. Postoev believes it’s time to normalize more comprehensive approaches to care—whether that means combining surgery with medication or revising previous procedures. “The goal is not just weight loss. The goal is long-term health, confidence, and quality of life.”
As access to medications becomes increasingly uncertain due to global factors, Dr. Postoev has adapted her practice to ensure her patients are not left behind. By vetting compounding pharmacies and closely monitoring medication availability, she provides a level of advocacy that gives her patients peace of mind and a trusted partner in their journey.
Her commitment to advocacy and education is deeply personal. As a surgeon, mother, and someone who has experienced the challenges of navigating the medical system, Dr. Postoev brings empathy and empowerment into every consultation. “I know what it’s like to fight for proper care. That’s why I believe in educating my patients, especially women. Ask questions. Speak up. Challenge the plan if it doesn’t feel right. You have the right to understand your body and participate in your own care.”
In a climate of confusion and oversimplification, Dr. Postoev is one of the few voices rising above the noise—bringing nuance, science, and humanity to a complex issue that impacts millions. Her message is simple but powerful: weight loss is not a trend, and your health deserves more than a headline.
Follow Us On Social Media!
