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Medical Weight Management
Struggling to shed pounds? At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen offers personalized medical weight management, combining lifestyle tweaks, FDA-approved medications and advanced procedures. With comprehensive health assessments and tailored plans, you'll achieve lasting, sustainable weight loss and improved well-being.
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
What Is Medical Weight Management?
Medical weight management is a physician-led program designed to help you lose weight safely and effectively. Under Dr. Nghia Nguyen's guidance at GastroDoxs in Houston, you'll receive a customized plan based on your medical history, lifestyle, and personal goals. This science-based approach combines dietary changes, exercise coaching, FDA-approved medications, and—when needed—minimally invasive procedures for lasting results.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Genetic predisposition and family history of obesity
Age-related metabolic slowdown—especially after 40
Sedentary lifestyle and high-calorie diets
Underlying medical conditions such as PCOS, sleep apnea, or diabetes
Signs and Symptoms
Progressive or unexplained weight gain
Persistent fatigue and low energy levels
Joint pain or difficulty moving comfortably
High blood pressure or elevated cholesterol
Shortness of breath during everyday activities
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Comprehensive Medical History & Exam
He reviews your weight history, diet, exercise habits, sleep patterns and any past diet attempts. He also screens for symptoms of underlying issues (PCOS, sleep apnea, thyroid disorders).
Anthropometric Measurements
He records your height, weight, waist circumference and body mass index (BMI) to assess your current risk profile and set realistic goals.
Laboratory & Hormone Tests
Blood tests may include:
Thyroid panel (TSH, Free T4) to rule out hypothyroidism
Fasting glucose and insulin levels to check for insulin resistance
Lipid panel to evaluate cholesterol and triglycerides
Sex hormones (in women over 40 or with irregular cycles) to detect PCOS or menopause-related changes
Cardiometabolic & Comorbidity Assessment
He evaluates blood pressure, ECG (if indicated) and screens for diabetes or fatty liver disease. Sleep studies may be ordered when sleep apnea is suspected.
ICD-10 Coding & Documentation
Dr. Nguyen uses standardized codes to guide treatment and coordinate with insurers, for example:
E66.9 - Obesity, unspecified
Z79.899 - Long-term drug therapy (for weight loss medications)
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for medical weight management.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Balanced meal plans to control portions and reduce calories
Personalized exercise programs for steady, sustainable weight loss
Practical tips on reading food labels, cooking at home, and staying active in Houston parks or gyms
2. Medications
Use of safe, FDA-approved weight loss medications tailored to your health needs
Regular progress checks with adjustments to minimize side effects and maximize results
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Gastric balloon placement to help reduce hunger
Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty for non-surgical stomach reduction
Sleeve gastrectomy surgery for long-term weight management in select cases
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ICD-10 code for weight loss medication management?
The most commonly used codes are E66.9 (obesity, unspecified) and Z79.899 (long-term drug therapy) to document and track your treatment.
How long does the program take?
Many patients see meaningful results within 3-6 months. Your exact timeline depends on your starting point, health factors, and personal goals.
What if I've failed other diets?
That's very common. Dr. Nguyen's medical approach uses personalized assessments and science-backed tools to help where typical diets often fall short.
Are weight loss medications safe?
Yes. All prescribed medications are FDA-approved. Dr. Nguyen monitors you closely and adjusts dosing to maximize benefits and minimize side effects.
Is there a specialized plan for women over 40?
Absolutely. Hormonal shifts and metabolic changes are addressed through tailored diet, lifestyle, and medication strategies for women in this age group.
Do I need a referral to start?
Most insurance plans do not require a referral for weight management services at GastroDoxs. You can self-schedule your consultation today.
How do I get started?
Simply book your first visit online or call our Houston office. We'll conduct a comprehensive evaluation and develop your custom weight management plan.
