Results can vary from person to person, but our medical weight loss patients typically notice improvements around 2 months after starting treatment.
Slimmer Appearance for Enhanced Wellness
We know that excess weight can have a direct effect on your overall health. That’s why Brightside Aesthetics by Ducharme Dermatology is a premier medical weight loss clinic in Des Moines. With our treatments, you can mitigate potentially damaging conditions associated with being overweight and live the amazing life you deserve.
The Brightside Process
Detailed Consultation
Your weight loss journey with us begins with an initial 15-minute complimentary consultation. This is where we learn about your medical history, discuss your previous struggles with weight, and determine if you are a suitable candidate for medical weight loss.
Choosing Your Method
We offer 2 different options for medical weight loss in Des Moines: semaglutide and tirzepatide. Unsure which you should choose? No worries. We work with you to determine which treatment is best for you.
Maintaining Results
Initial results from medical weight loss typically appear around 2 months after beginning treatment. Your specific maintenance plan depends on the goals you want to reach and which treatment you choose.
Look on the Brightside
Use our treatment planning tool to discover the perfect service to meet your aesthetic and wellness needs.
Hear From Our Patients
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The treatments are so quick and easy! Only 28 minutes each and I’m done and ready to continue my day! No downtime or side effects. I love this device!
The treatments are so quick and easy! Only 28 minutes each and I’m done and ready to continue my day! No downtime or side effects. I love this device!
- KB
- KB
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She is marvelous. Very knowledgeable and helpful. I recommend her highly.
She is marvelous. Very knowledgeable and helpful. I recommend her highly.
- Richard N
- Richard N
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Erin Ducharme and her staff have been wonderful and proactive on my behalf when diagnosed with a rare immune-suppressing disease with the potential for underlying malignancy. She is caring and thorough and compassionate, as are her patient assistants. I would...
Erin Ducharme and her staff have been wonderful and proactive on my behalf when diagnosed with a rare immune-suppressing disease with the potential for underlying malignancy. She is caring and thorough and compassionate, as are her patient assistants. I would never go anywhere else for dermatology concerns, and give her my highest recommendations
- Kimberly K
- Kimberly K
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The absolute best skin doctor in the Des Moines Metropolitan area~ Dr. Ducharme is attentive, knowledgeable and caring!
The absolute best skin doctor in the Des Moines Metropolitan area~ Dr. Ducharme is attentive, knowledgeable and caring!
- Brent C
- Brent C
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Each staff member was courteous and professional. Starting at checking in, the appointment with Dr. Ducharme, interacting with the nurse and treatment, each phase was prompt and pleasant. This is my first experience with a dermatologist and I could not...
Each staff member was courteous and professional. Starting at checking in, the appointment with Dr. Ducharme, interacting with the nurse and treatment, each phase was prompt and pleasant. This is my first experience with a dermatologist and I could not be more pleased.
- Kevin M
- Kevin M
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Dr Ducharme and the entire staff were very professional and caring with me. They cared about what happened to me and explained my procedures to me very clearly. I am very thankful that I was refereed to them and will...
Dr Ducharme and the entire staff were very professional and caring with me. They cared about what happened to me and explained my procedures to me very clearly. I am very thankful that I was refereed to them and will continue to go back to them. I would recommend Dr Ducharme to anyone in need of a Dermatologist.
- Jay M
- Jay M
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I've been a patient of Dr. Ducharme for three years. I'm a senior with far too much sun exposure on a bald head. She is very skilled, caring, and her office runs efficiently. I highly recommend this provider!
I've been a patient of Dr. Ducharme for three years. I'm a senior with far too much sun exposure on a bald head. She is very skilled, caring, and her office runs efficiently. I highly recommend this provider!
- Roger R
- Roger R
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You can expect kindness and compassion from scheduling until the end of your appointment. Every single staff member is friendly, communicative, and caring. Dr. Ducharme is simply fantastic! She listens, addresses concerns and follows with a solid treatment plan. I...
You can expect kindness and compassion from scheduling until the end of your appointment. Every single staff member is friendly, communicative, and caring. Dr. Ducharme is simply fantastic! She listens, addresses concerns and follows with a solid treatment plan. I cannot recommend this office highly enough!
- Jenn C
- Jenn C
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Dr Erin Ducharme and her staff are second to none. I have had multiple skin cancer issues, and without a doubt, I have received the best care possible! From walking into the office, being greeted by the ladies at the...
Dr Erin Ducharme and her staff are second to none. I have had multiple skin cancer issues, and without a doubt, I have received the best care possible! From walking into the office, being greeted by the ladies at the front desk, to being diagnosed, I know I am being treated by professionals that care. Dr Ducharme is very thorough, and will take the time to discuss and answer any questions you may have. I have recommended Dr Ducharme to family and friends without hesitation. Dr. Ducharme and her staff are the best!
- Chris J
- Chris J
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The majority of women with incontinence issues have dealt with it for many years. The lack of treatment options and the overall sense of embarrassment prevent women from seeking treatment. I have been completely impressed with Emsella as a non-invasive...
The majority of women with incontinence issues have dealt with it for many years. The lack of treatment options and the overall sense of embarrassment prevent women from seeking treatment. I have been completely impressed with Emsella as a non-invasive option. The benefits and results are “life changing”. My confidence and bladder control improved with each treatment. Don’t shy away from the cost, it’s worth the investment
- LD
- LD
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I have only had 2 treatments done and it has already helped so much! I don’t feel the urgency in the morning when I wake up like I did before. Definitely worth the money!
I have only had 2 treatments done and it has already helped so much! I don’t feel the urgency in the morning when I wake up like I did before. Definitely worth the money!
- KB
- KB
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Great visit & care once again. Dr. Ducharme & staff truly care & provide excellent service for their patients. Thank You!
Great visit & care once again. Dr. Ducharme & staff truly care & provide excellent service for their patients. Thank You!
- John D
- John D
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Emsella, the most wonderful product ever created. I had a very bad case of incontinence; I went into this hoping to be 50% better when my treatments were finished. I saw improvement following my first treatment. I didn’t think I...
Emsella, the most wonderful product ever created. I had a very bad case of incontinence; I went into this hoping to be 50% better when my treatments were finished. I saw improvement following my first treatment. I didn’t think I could possibly get any better result, yet I am here to tell you that I am 98% better. Every now and then, I have a little leakage but I never dreamed I could have this result without surgery. Sitting in a chair for 28 minutes, the best 28 minutes ever spent!! Even though this treatment is FDA approved it was not covered by my insurance and I want you to know that it is worth every penny.
- TW
- TW
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I feel so much stronger not only throughout my core but also in my hamstrings! So impressed with the Emsculpt NEO and Emsella!
I feel so much stronger not only throughout my core but also in my hamstrings! So impressed with the Emsculpt NEO and Emsella!
- KB
- KB
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I would like to share my experience with the Emsculpt NEO program. Before purchasing the sessions, I had fallen into a slump of overeating and lack of motivation. After a few of the sessions I could feel my abs and...
I would like to share my experience with the Emsculpt NEO program. Before purchasing the sessions, I had fallen into a slump of overeating and lack of motivation. After a few of the sessions I could feel my abs and felt like my waistband was loosening. My husband commented that is was looking like I had lost some weight. This inspired me to start watching my food intake and get back into a regular workout routine. I have dropped down a clothing size, both top and bottom and wanting to continue with periodic maintenance sessions. I am in my 60's and glad I tried the Emsculpt NEO program, it has turned into a positive, healthy feeling for me mentally and physically!
- KJ
- KJ
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I am very pleased with the appearance of my skin after just one treatment of the HydraFacial. It looks much brighter, healthier, and firmer. I am planning to have another one after seeing the great results of my first facial....
I am very pleased with the appearance of my skin after just one treatment of the HydraFacial. It looks much brighter, healthier, and firmer. I am planning to have another one after seeing the great results of my first facial. I am looking forward to another treatment before too long!
- TC
- TC
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I struggled with acne most of my adolescent years and had the scars to prove it. About a year ago, as the breakouts stopped, I knew I wanted to do something more permanent about the scarring. In just three treatments...
I struggled with acne most of my adolescent years and had the scars to prove it. About a year ago, as the breakouts stopped, I knew I wanted to do something more permanent about the scarring. In just three treatments my face is smoother, healthier and most importantly (to me) less scarred! I am about three months past my final treatment and hope to see even more improvement over the next couple of months as my skin continues to regrow and heal! Worth every penny!!
- MD
- MD
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My skin and face have never looked better since I started going to Brightside. When I met Amanda she did a thorough intake and asked what my goals were and took pictures so we could look at the condition of...
My skin and face have never looked better since I started going to Brightside. When I met Amanda she did a thorough intake and asked what my goals were and took pictures so we could look at the condition of my skin from multiple points of view. I appreciate her knowledge and friendly demeanor. At every appointment she asks how my skin was after the treatment and in between. I get dermaplaning and she introduced me to the benefits of salt facials. Adding salt facials to my routine has made the biggest difference. I now get so many compliments on my skin. My skincare routine works so much better and my skin is so healthy. I highly recommend Brightside and Amanda.
- Christie W
- Christie W
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This was my first time getting a Salt Facial and it was an incredible experience, thanks to Sydney. She did a great job educating me and performing the treatment. My skin looks so bright and smooth. Highly recommend!
This was my first time getting a Salt Facial and it was an incredible experience, thanks to Sydney. She did a great job educating me and performing the treatment. My skin looks so bright and smooth. Highly recommend!
- Caroline N
- Caroline N
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I have been going to Brightside Aesthetics ever since they started and the staff are so nice and very accommodating. I love seeing Sydney! She explains everything she will do and follows up on how you’re doing after the service!...
I have been going to Brightside Aesthetics ever since they started and the staff are so nice and very accommodating. I love seeing Sydney! She explains everything she will do and follows up on how you’re doing after the service! Going here has helped a lot with my acne. I recommend their SaltFacials and spa facials! Plus the smell of the place is divineee. Very pleased!
- Geisha C
- Geisha C
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Brightside Aesthetics the atmosphere is very professional and welcoming! The staff are very friendly. Amanda is my Aesthetician She is super professional, absolutely amazing, She is patient and knowledgeable. My time with Amanda is outstanding, She is truly one of...
Brightside Aesthetics the atmosphere is very professional and welcoming! The staff are very friendly. Amanda is my Aesthetician She is super professional, absolutely amazing, She is patient and knowledgeable. My time with Amanda is outstanding, She is truly one of a kind. Blessed to get such a wonderful service, She’s a “gem”.
- Marivic A
- Marivic A
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My daughter and I had a wonderful experience with Dr Ducharme. She has wonderful bedside manner, she was clear, confident, and yet was willing to handle things the way we preferred. I would highly recommend her!
My daughter and I had a wonderful experience with Dr Ducharme. She has wonderful bedside manner, she was clear, confident, and yet was willing to handle things the way we preferred. I would highly recommend her!
- Luree J
- Luree J
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My appointment with Dr. Ducharme was to learn more about some moles I have. The experience from start to finish was seamless. Staff that helped me get checked in were super kind and helpful, and the same can be said...
My appointment with Dr. Ducharme was to learn more about some moles I have. The experience from start to finish was seamless. Staff that helped me get checked in were super kind and helpful, and the same can be said for the nurse that took me back and explained what would be happening during the visit. I'd recommend this office for any and all dermatology needs!
- Hannah B
- Hannah B
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I love Ducharme Dermatology! Great people and care! I see Amy for my yearly check-ups and she is very thorough and answers all my questions. I feel I’m in very good hands and I’m very happy with my choice of...
I love Ducharme Dermatology! Great people and care! I see Amy for my yearly check-ups and she is very thorough and answers all my questions. I feel I’m in very good hands and I’m very happy with my choice of Ducharme Dermatology!
- Beth M
- Beth M
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Ducharme Dermatology is 2nd to none! From the professional staff, nurses, and Dr. Ducharme, you will not find a better Dermatology Clinic. Dr. Erin Ducharme is very thorough, honest, and professional, to take care of your dermatology needs.
Ducharme Dermatology is 2nd to none! From the professional staff, nurses, and Dr. Ducharme, you will not find a better Dermatology Clinic. Dr. Erin Ducharme is very thorough, honest, and professional, to take care of your dermatology needs.
- Chris J
- Chris J
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Dr Ducharme and staff are wonderful. I highly recommend the office for all your dermatology needs.
Dr Ducharme and staff are wonderful. I highly recommend the office for all your dermatology needs.
- Valerie U
- Valerie U
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I feel very fortunate to have found a professional caring group. Just another level of excellence!
I feel very fortunate to have found a professional caring group. Just another level of excellence!
- Ella K
- Ella K
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Dr. Ducharme was very thoughtful and clearly interested in helping me resolve my issue. She listened carefully to my concerns and took action. Her staff (Carmen) was helpful and kind. They both made me feel comfortable unlike my experience at...
Dr. Ducharme was very thoughtful and clearly interested in helping me resolve my issue. She listened carefully to my concerns and took action. Her staff (Carmen) was helpful and kind. They both made me feel comfortable unlike my experience at another Dermatology.
- Frank D
- Frank D
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Excellent credentials, very thorough, good follow-up & all staff knowledgeable and proficient!
Excellent credentials, very thorough, good follow-up & all staff knowledgeable and proficient!
- Graham S
- Graham S
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Dr. Ducharme is very thorough and extremely knowledgeable. I love how she makes me feel so comfortable.
Dr. Ducharme is very thorough and extremely knowledgeable. I love how she makes me feel so comfortable.
- Amber B
- Amber B
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They got me in immediately after I explained the severity of the issue. They validated my urgency and were super kind. They provided me with several ideas on how to help my daughter’s eczema and scheduled a follow up to...
They got me in immediately after I explained the severity of the issue. They validated my urgency and were super kind. They provided me with several ideas on how to help my daughter’s eczema and scheduled a follow up to check in on her progress.
- Tess R
- Tess R
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Amy is so thorough looking at my skin. Amy listens & answers to my concerns. She is very knowledgeable & friendly.
Amy is so thorough looking at my skin. Amy listens & answers to my concerns. She is very knowledgeable & friendly.
- Gayle ME
- Gayle ME
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Doctor is great! No long waiting time. They truly listen and are a bunch of nice people. I love how they remind by calling and texting for the pending payment. It was so easy to pay on the phone. They...
Doctor is great! No long waiting time. They truly listen and are a bunch of nice people. I love how they remind by calling and texting for the pending payment. It was so easy to pay on the phone. They squeeze you in for an emergency. Highly recommend!
- Aarthi T
- Aarthi T
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I needed to get into see Doc Ducharme on extremely short notice due to a problem related to losing 28 lymph nodes in my upper shoulder area. They made an opening for me the very next morning and were able...
I needed to get into see Doc Ducharme on extremely short notice due to a problem related to losing 28 lymph nodes in my upper shoulder area. They made an opening for me the very next morning and were able to help me out. I am truly grateful!
- Bill S
- Bill S
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Dr. Ducharme and her staff do a great job explaining everything and making sure all your dermatological questions are answered. Excellent care!
Dr. Ducharme and her staff do a great job explaining everything and making sure all your dermatological questions are answered. Excellent care!
- Julie S
- Julie S
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I think Ducharme Dermatology is a five star practice. Dr Ducharme and her staff are very thorough, explain what they are doing and very pleasant to work with. I highly recommend them.
I think Ducharme Dermatology is a five star practice. Dr Ducharme and her staff are very thorough, explain what they are doing and very pleasant to work with. I highly recommend them.
- Rick N
- Rick N
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Great visit. Dr. Ducharme was warm, personable, and efficient. The office staff were equally great. Nothing felt rushed, but also wasn't running slowly. I specifically chose Dr. Ducharme for my 4 year old because I had heard she had a...
Great visit. Dr. Ducharme was warm, personable, and efficient. The office staff were equally great. Nothing felt rushed, but also wasn't running slowly. I specifically chose Dr. Ducharme for my 4 year old because I had heard she had a great bedside manner and I'm so glad we did. Both my daughter and I were able to get in quickly and both were at ease with the whole visit.
- Ramie G
- Ramie G
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I was quite nervous, the word Cancer is extremely scary! The entire experience was 1st rate. From how the appointment was scheduled, the proactive communication, reception and nurse were more than I expected! Dr. Ducharme is the most competent, amazing...
I was quite nervous, the word Cancer is extremely scary! The entire experience was 1st rate. From how the appointment was scheduled, the proactive communication, reception and nurse were more than I expected! Dr. Ducharme is the most competent, amazing communicator in the medical professional I have experienced in my 50+ years! I am 100% at ease with the team that is supporting me! Thank you!
- Bryan A
- Bryan A
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I had my 6 months check up at Ducharme Dermatology with Amy Eschweiler, I never have to wait, my appointments are always right on schedule. Amy is a fantastic dermatologist, she is always kind and knowledgeable, I am in good...
I had my 6 months check up at Ducharme Dermatology with Amy Eschweiler, I never have to wait, my appointments are always right on schedule. Amy is a fantastic dermatologist, she is always kind and knowledgeable, I am in good hands with her as my doctor. She catches suspicious looking skin lesions before they can turn into bigger problem. I would highly recommend this office, thank you again for your care.
- Dianna P
- Dianna P
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I would recommend Ducharme to anybody! They are very thorough and kind!
I would recommend Ducharme to anybody! They are very thorough and kind!
- Karen K
- Karen K
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Dr. Erin Ducharme is an absolutely amazing provider. Besides being highly qualified as a Board Certified dermatologist, she also is a kind and caring human. She always partners with us in our care plan. Our whole family goes to her...
Dr. Erin Ducharme is an absolutely amazing provider. Besides being highly qualified as a Board Certified dermatologist, she also is a kind and caring human. She always partners with us in our care plan. Our whole family goes to her with any skin issues and she never pushes any unwanted treatments or prescriptions. She takes a holistic approach in her treatment thought process. If I could give her practice 10 stars I would. We love her and cannot imagine going anywhere else. We have also always had an amazing front office experience. A big shout out to Breanna for always calling when there is a cancellation to accommodate our schedule.
- Desi C
- Desi C
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Always get excellent care from Dr. Ducharme and her team. Timely efficient and knowledgeable. Highly recommend!
Always get excellent care from Dr. Ducharme and her team. Timely efficient and knowledgeable. Highly recommend!
- Ann W
- Ann W
Frequently Asked Questions
The treatment itself can give you impactful results, but it is best paired with certain lifestyle changes, such as a balanced diet. We can provide guidance regarding nutrition and dietary regimens during your consultation and follow-up appointments.
After your initial 5-month treatment course, you will likely need to stay on a monthly maintenance dosage. However, people often use the injections to help them reach their goals and develop sustainable lifestyle choices. If you develop these habits, it may not be necessary to continue treatment. It is important, however, that you continue implementing these beneficial practices even after discontinuing treatment.
It is not ideal to miss a dose of your medical weight loss treatment, but we understand that life can get busy. If you accidentally skip an injection, contact us immediately so we can discuss your next steps.
How Medical Weight Loss Works
Our medical weight loss treatments combine medical intervention with personalized care to help you achieve your weight management goals. We offer 2 options: semaglutide and tirzepatide.
They each work to reduce your appetite, making it much easier to lose weight. They work best when accompanied by lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, to enhance their overall effectiveness.
Semaglutide:
Mimics your GLP-1 hormone to enhance feelings of fullness, slow stomach emptying, and reduce hunger. It also helps with blood sugar control by regulating your appetite and improving insulin sensitivity.
Tirzepatide:
Mimics the GLP-1 and GIP hormones to control your hunger and improve your blood sugar levels. Because it targets both hormone receptors, it can support weight loss and glucose management simultaneously.
Experience Effective Treatment
Medical weight loss treatments are effective for most of our patients. They even work well for people who feel like their goals have been impossible to reach in the past. Getting treatment for medical weight loss in Des Moines supports and accelerates your weight loss efforts so achieving your goals doesn’t seem like such a daunting task.
How to Promote Lasting Success
At Brightside Aesthetics, we want to help you lose weight but also support you in maintaining your long-term health. This involves developing good habits and implementing the proper lifestyle changes.
We also recommend regular follow-up appointments. This way, we can monitor your progress and adjust your plan if needed.
Our Goal
Our team is committed to successfully leading our patients toward their weight loss goals, always using a comprehensive, personalized approach. No matter the reasoning behind your interest in medical weight loss, we are here to support you on your journey toward a healthier, more confident you.