Every question is answered here in a clear and accessible way, making this FAQ an essential resource for better understanding obesity medicine, our weight loss solutions and the CoAttitude clinic's unique global approach.

- Clinic services and practical details

What services does Clinique Co-Attitude offer for the management of obesity?

We offer a comprehensive, personalized approach that includes medical consultations, specialized programs and modern tools such as Allurion® gastric balloons, as well as psychological support techniques such as neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) and Ericksonian hypnosis. Some of our programs also include coaching and support from intuitive eating coach Caroline Leclerc.

How can I make an appointment with Dr. Séverine Mazur?

You can book your first appointment online directly on our website. The initial payment must be made online at the same time, after which you will have access to Dr. Mazur's schedule to choose the time that suits you best. Several options are available to you.

Dr. Séverine Mazur studied medicine in Europe. Is she a member of the Ordre des médecins du Québec?

YesDr. Séverine Mazur is a member in good standing of the Collège des médecins du Québec. Although she did her medical studies in Europe, at the Université Jules Verne d'Amiens in France, she has obtained all the necessary accreditations to practice as a physician in Quebec.

Her international training combined with her local experience enables her to offer high-quality care tailored to the needs of Quebec patients.

Do you offer remote consultations?

Yes, most consultations can ideally be carried out by videoconference, offering flexibility to our patients wherever they may be.

Can I pay for consultations online?

Yes, once you've selected your appointment option, you pay for it online.

Can the Quebec public health insurance plan (RAMQ) reimburse the claimed expenses, or can my private health insurance do so?

The services offered by Clinique CO-ATTITUDE, including the placement of the Allurion® balloon, ARE NOT COVERED by the Quebec public health insurance plan (RAMQ), as this is a private medical service.

However, some private health insurances, particularly those offered by employers, may be able to cover part of the cost, depending on the terms of your contract. We recommend that you contact your insurance company to check whether your coverage includes this type of treatment.

We can also provide you with a detailed receipt that you can submit to your private insurance company for possible reimbursement.

Can I pay for my program in instalments?

Yes, Stripe will offer you the option of paying for your program in simple, secure instalments.

When you register, we'll explain the payment options available, including the possibility of spreading the cost over several installments. Please do not hesitate to contact us to discuss the options that suit you best.

How does the first appointment work?

The first appointment with Dr Séverine Mazur is a medical consultation via teleconsultation. This allows us to assess your health status and determine the best course of treatment for you. Depending on your needs, face-to-face appointments can also be arranged in Montreal.

What if I need to cancel or reschedule an appointment?

If you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment, please give us at least 72 hours' notice to avoid cancellation charges. You can manage your appointments directly online or contact us for assistance.

What is your appointment cancellation policy?

Appointments must be cancelled at least 72 hours in advance to avoid charges. Payments for initial consultations are non-refundable in the event of late cancellation or no-show.

- Understanding obesity

What are the co-morbidities associated with obesity?

Comorbidities are diseases or disorders that accompany obesity, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, depression, binge eating, emotional eating or cardiovascular disease. Managing these co-morbidities is important for improving patients' overall health.

- Allurion® gastric balloon

What is the role of the Allurion® gastric balloon in the treatment of obesity?

The Allurion® gastric balloon is a non-medicated solution designed to aid weight loss. It is placed in the stomach and inflated with water, creating a faster feeling of satiety. This makes it possible to reduce daily calorie intake without surgery.

How do I know if I'm eligible for the Allurion® program?

Eligibility for the Allurion® program depends on your BMI (Body Mass Index) and your general state of health. If your BMI is between 27 and 30 with comorbidities, or if your BMI is above 30, you may be a good candidate.

To confirm your eligibility, make an appointment with Dr. Séverine Mazur for a full assessment of your situation.

How long does the Allurion® balloon program last?

The Allurion® balloon remains in the stomach for approximately 16 weeks. During this period, you are monitored regularly by Dr. Mazur. If necessary, a second balloon can be inserted after a break of 3 to 7 months to maximize weight loss.

Is the Allurion® balloon a safe solution with no risk of side effects for my health?

The Allurion® balloon is a recognized and safe solution for the treatment of obesity, approved and used in many countries around the world. As with any medical intervention, there are potential risks and side effects. The most common side effects include nausea, abdominal cramps or vomiting, especially in the first few days following balloon placement. These symptoms usually disappear over time and can be managed with appropriate treatments.

Prior to any procedure, Dr. Mazur will perform a comprehensive medical evaluation to ensure that the Allurion® balloon is an appropriate option for you, and will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.

What are the contraindications to using an Allurion® balloon?

As with any medical treatment or medication, the Allurion® gastric balloon is not suitable for everyone. Certain medical conditions may contraindicate its use. These include

History of major gastrointestinal surgery, history of bariatric surgery or gastric banding
Inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn's disease
Severe hiatal hernia or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Active gastric or duodenal ulcers
Severe coagulation disorders
Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Non-stabilized psychiatric disorders
Known allergy to one of the balloon's components

A complete medical check-up is always performed by Dr. Mazur to ensure that the Allurion® balloon is suitable for your health condition and realistic goals.

How likely is it that I will achieve my weight loss goal with the Allurion® balloon?

The Allurion® balloon has shown significant results in weight loss for many patients. On average, patients lose between 10 % and 15 % of their total weight with a single balloon, and this loss can reach between 22.8 % and 40.9 % with a program of two consecutive balloons. Results may vary depending on several factors, such as program adherence, changes in eating habits and physical activity.

Your personal commitment to following medical, nutritional and behavioral recommendations plays a key role in achieving your weight loss goals. Dr. Séverine Mazur will be by your side every step of the way, offering you the support you need.

Who is the company behind the design and manufacture of Allurion® gastric balloons, and how are doctors trained to place them?

Allurion® gastric balloons are designed and manufactured by Allurion Technologiesan innovative company founded in 2009 by Dr Shantanu Gaur and Dr Ram Chuttani. Based in the United States, Allurion Technologies specializes in the development of non-invasive solutions for weight management. Their flagship product, the Allurion® gastric balloon, was launched in 2016 and is now used in over 50 countries.

The company's mission is to offer effective, safe and accessible solutions for the treatment of obesity, with a particular focus on technology and comprehensive medical support. Allurion Technologies is recognized for its evidence-based approach, with numerous clinical studies demonstrating the efficacy and safety of its devices.

Finally, the doctors who place Allurion® balloons receive specific training to ensure safe and effective placement. This training covers the technical aspects of the procedure, as well as the management of medical follow-ups throughout the program. Dr Séverine Mazur, for example, is certified to place Allurion® balloons, and has extensive experience in the treatment of obesity. This certification guarantees that the balloon is placed in compliance with the strict standards set by Allurion Technologies.

- Optifast® program

What is the Optifast® program and how does it work?

Optifast® is a medically supervised, Health Canada-approved program that combines meal replacements for 3 months with specialized support over six months. The program includes an intensive weight-loss phase (3 months) followed by dietary re-education for lasting results.

- Complementary approaches (hypnosis, NLP, intuitive nutrition)

What are the benefits of Ericksonian hypnosis for weight management?

Ericksonian hypnosis can help boost motivation, improve stress management and encourage healthier eating habits. As a complementary treatment, it fits perfectly into a weight-loss program under medical supervision.

What is intuitive eating and how can it help with weight management?

Intuitive eating is an approach that aims to re-establish a healthy relationship with food by listening to your body's natural hunger and satiety signals. It moves away from restrictive diets by emphasizing the pleasure of eating and self-regulation. At Clinique CoAttitude, we integrate certain principles of intuitive eating into our overall approach to help patients adopt sustainable eating habits, without guilt or excess.