At MD Optimal Health & Aesthetics, we offer the physician-designed Optavia program to help patients build sustainable weight loss habits and achieve life-changing results. Our Columbia, MD, clinic provides in-person and virtual options, making it easier than ever to access the tools, support, and nutrition you need to succeed.
Founded by Melissa Donelson, a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with over 25 years of medical experience and a personal success story of over 100 pounds of weight loss, MD Optimal Health & Aesthetics brings clinical expertise and real-world empathy to every program we offer.
What Is the Optavia Program?
Optavia is a structured, medically informed weight loss system rooted in behavioral science. It helps patients lose weight quickly and safely while learning long-term strategies to maintain it. The program focuses on building healthy eating habits, increasing physical activity, and creating a supportive environment for sustainable success.
How It Works: Meal Replacements and Coaching
Participants replace most of their current meals with nutritionally complete Optavia options, making daily food decisions simple and effective. These convenient replacements help maintain a proper balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates while reducing calorie intake. The program includes the following:
- Prepared meals, shakes, soups, and nutrition bars: Designed to maintain nutritional balance while promoting fat loss.
- Daily lean and green meal: Each day, participants prepare one meal using lean protein and vegetables.
- One-on-one coaching: Clients are matched with a certified coach for personalized support.
- App-based tracking: Monitor meals, progress, and motivation from your phone.
- Access to community: Join other clients on the same journey for added accountability and support.
The program costs typically range from $350 to $400 per month, including meal replacements and coaching.
Why Choose MD Optimal Health & Aesthetics for Optavia?
At MD Optimal Health & Aesthetics, we combine clinical expertise, structured support, and real-world insight to guide your weight loss journey with the Optavia program. We don’t just provide weight loss solutions — we offer a supportive environment where patients feel seen, understood, and empowered. From your initial consultation to your long-term success, our team is dedicated to helping you make real, lasting changes.
What sets our practice apart:
- Integrated Medical Expertise: Every program is based on a foundation of clinical training, personalized coaching, and ongoing evaluation, ensuring safe and effective progress.
- Deep Experience: Melissa Donelson holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Georgetown University (MSN, ACNP-BC, CRNP) and is board certified through the ANCC. She draws from a background in critical care, internal medicine, palliative care, and medical aesthetics.
- Specialized Weight Loss Coaching: As a certified health coach, Melissa has helped over 350 clients reach their goals, including those who needed to meet pre-surgical weight requirements or manage complex health conditions.
- Professional Recognition: Our practice maintains active membership in leading organizations, including the Obesity Medicine Association (OMA), AANP, ANA, and NPAM.
- Accessible, Compassionate Care: We offer both in-person and virtual appointments to ensure convenience and consistency for busy individuals and families.
With structured programs like Optavia and a team deeply invested in your success, MD Optimal Health & Aesthetics is more than a med spa — it’s a trusted partner in your long-term wellness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Optavia is ideal for adults seeking structured support for weight loss, including those with busy lifestyles, medical concerns, or pre-surgical weight loss requirements.
Meal replacements reduce decision fatigue, simplify nutrition, and help maintain caloric control without compromising essential nutrients.
Yes, we can help you adjust your Optavia plan based on allergies, food preferences, or health concerns. A consultation will determine the best path forward.
Optavia’s later phases teach self-management, meal planning, and mindful eating for long-term success.
Calorie intake varies by plan but generally ranges from 800 to 1,200 calories during the initial weight loss phase.
We do not recommend Optavia for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals without direct approval and supervision by a healthcare provider.
Yes, light to moderate exercise is encouraged. We'll help you determine a safe activity level based on your current health.
Optavia combines personalized coaching, medical guidance, behavioral change, and structured nutrition, making it more than a diet.
Contact our team to ask about payment plans, seasonal specials, or membership savings.
Yes. Subscriptions are flexible and can be adjusted to your needs at any time.
Take Control with a Personalized Optavia Plan
Whether you’re starting your weight loss journey or looking for a sustainable long-term solution, Optavia at MD Optimal Health & Aesthetics can help you reach your goals. Contact us at 240-444-5957 to schedule your consultation in Columbia, MD.
