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Obesity
Discover expert obesity care in Houston with Dr. Scott at GastroDoxs. Utilizing BMI and ICD-10 code E66 diagnostics, he delivers tailored plans-combining nutrition coaching, exercise, FDA-approved medications, and minimally invasive procedures-to support your journey toward weight loss and better health.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
What Is Obesity?
Obesity is a condition in which excess body fat negatively impacts your health. It's typically defined by a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher. Clinically, obesity is coded as ICD-10 E66, a designation Dr. Scott and the GastroDoxs team use for accurate diagnosis and insurance documentation.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Family history and genetics
Eating high-calorie foods and sugary drinks
Lack of regular physical activity
Certain prescription medications
Mental stress and emotional eating
Nervous system changes
Metabolic problems (common in Houston adults)
Signs and Symptoms
BMI of 30 or higher
Enlarged waist circumference
Low energy or persistent fatigue
Shortness of breath during routine activities
Back or joint pain
Difficulty sleeping
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Obesity
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He begins by reviewing your weight history, lifestyle habits, previous weight loss attempts, family history of obesity or metabolic conditions, and related health concerns such as fatigue, joint pain, or sleep issues. A full physical exam helps assess body fat distribution, vital signs, and obesity-related complications.
Anthropometric Measurements
Body Mass Index (BMI) calculation
Waist circumference to evaluate central fat distribution
Body composition analysis (if available) to differentiate fat and muscle mass
Laboratory Tests
Comprehensive blood work helps identify metabolic contributors and health risks:
Fasting blood glucose and HbA1c for diabetes screening
Lipid panel to assess cholesterol and triglyceride levels
Liver function tests for fatty liver evaluation
Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) to rule out hypothyroidism
Vitamin D and B12 to check for common deficiencies
Behavioral and Lifestyle Assessment
Dr. Scott evaluates your daily nutrition, meal timing, portion sizes, physical activity level, sleep patterns, stress factors, and emotional relationship with food. This information guides the development of a sustainable treatment plan.
Specialized Testing (if needed)
Sleep study to screen for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)
Resting metabolic rate (RMR) testing to personalize caloric goals
Hormonal panels in select patients with suspected endocrine causes
Personalized Care Planning
Based on your full evaluation, Dr. Scott creates a customized medical weight management plan, which may include dietary changes, physical activity, behavioral strategies, FDA-approved weight loss medications, and regular follow-up.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for obesity.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Personalized meal plans designed to support healthy weight loss and manage cravings
Exercise programs tailored to your fitness level and goals
Mindful-eating classes to help you build sustainable habits
Group support sessions for accountability and motivation
2. Medications
We follow the latest FDA guidelines for weight-loss drugs.
Options include FDA-approved therapies such as Wegovy and Saxenda.
Regular check-ins to monitor progress and manage any side effects.
Ongoing follow-up visits to adjust dosing and assess results.
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty to reduce stomach volume without surgery
Intragastric balloon devices to curb appetite and support portion control
Non-surgical interventions with a short recovery time in our Houston clinic
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes obesity?
Obesity can result from a combination of factors including genetics, poor diet, lack of physical activity, hormonal imbalances, medications, and chronic stress.
How is obesity diagnosed?
Dr. Scott uses body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and body composition measurements to assess obesity and its health impact.
What health risks are associated with obesity?
Obesity increases the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, fatty liver disease, sleep apnea, certain cancers, and joint problems.
Can obesity be reversed?
Yes. With proper medical support, personalized nutrition, exercise, and sometimes medication, many patients achieve lasting weight loss and improved health.
Do genetics play a role in obesity?
Yes. Some people are more genetically prone to weight gain, but lifestyle choices and medical treatment can still make a big difference.
What are FDA-approved weight loss medications?
Options include GLP-1 agonists, appetite suppressants, and fat absorption blockers. Dr. Scott will determine which is appropriate for you.
Is surgery the only option for severe obesity?
No. Surgery is one option, but many patients benefit from structured medical weight management without needing surgery.
Can obesity affect mental health?
Yes. Obesity can lead to depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Dr. Scott�s approach supports both physical and emotional well-being.
How long does it take to see results?
Many patients start to see results within weeks of beginning their plan. Progress varies based on individual factors and goals.
Does insurance cover obesity treatment?
Some insurance plans cover consultations, lab tests, medications, and nutritional counseling. Our team can help you check your benefits.
