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Experienced. Compassionate. Dedicated to Your Success.

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Science-Driven Care. Personalized for You.

We are Central New York’s leading experts in helping people achieve and maintain significant weight loss.

Led by Dr. Wendy Scinta, with over 20 years of experience as a board-certified physician specializing in weight loss, our team of medical and nutritional professionals has helped thousands of patients lose excess weight for good.

Every member of our team is passionate about helping people overcome obesity and reclaim their health; and we are committed to a practice where patients not only achieve their goals for weight loss, but also feel supported and cared for each step of the way.

With a full team of medical and nutritional experts behind you, you will finally understand why weight loss has been a never-ending struggle, and what you need to do differently to achieve real, lasting change. And you’ll have the support you need to finally reach your goal weight, and live your life on your own terms.

Our Mission

Our mission is to provide physician-directed weight loss, hormone therapy, and aesthetic medicine that improves health, restores balance, and builds lasting confidence — empowering our patients to live long, strong, and vibrant lives.

Meet Our Team

Dr. Wendy Scinta, MD, MS

Dr. Wendy Scinta, MD is a nationally recognized leader in the treatment of adult and childhood obesity and the founder of Medical Weight Loss of NY. Since opening her practice in 2004, she has helped thousands of patients achieve lasting weight loss through evidence-based, medically supervised care.

With more than two decades of specialized experience, Dr. Scinta is widely regarded as one of the most qualified and trusted weight loss physicians in Central New York. Her clinical expertise, personalized approach, and proven outcomes set her practice apart.

Dr. Scinta is frequently featured in national media, including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, CNN, PBS, The Steve Harvey Show, Oprah Magazine, Parenting Magazine, Bariatric Times, and WebMD. She is also a regular guest on Doctor Radio (SiriusXM).

She is a former President of the Obesity Medicine Association and is board certified by both the American Board of Family Medicine and the American Board of Obesity Medicine.

Dr. Scinta is the author of BOUNCE: A Weight Loss Doctor’s Plan for a Happier, Healthier, and Slimmer Child, a best-selling book in the field of childhood obesity. Her BOUNCE program has been adopted by schools, practices, and organizations across the United States and internationally.

Sam Keefe, Office Manager

With over 18 years of experience in the healthcare field, I began my career as a medical receptionist and quickly developed a passion for patient care and healthcare operations. After three years in the front office, I was promoted to Office Manager, where I have continued to grow and lead with a strong commitment to efficiency, patient experience, and team collaboration.

I hold an Associate’s degree in Medical Administration and a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Healthcare Management, which have provided a strong foundation for managing the operational, administrative, and patient service aspects of a medical practice. My journey from the front desk to management has given me a well-rounded understanding of both patient care and office operations. I strive to create a positive experience for patients while building a strong, supportive team environment for staff.

Martha Pascucci, RD

Nutritionist

Martha is a registered dietician with a Nutrition degree from Cornell University and certificates in Training in Adult Weight Management and Pediatric Weight Management from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Her practice specialty is weight management.

Martha joined Medical Weight Loss of NY in 2014 where she’s passionate about helping individuals across their lifespan achieve and maintain their weight goals through individually designed weight loss plans.

Julie Cannizzo, NP

Julie graduated from Le Moyne college in 1991 with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. She went on to Syracuse University to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 1996 and a Master of Science as an Adult Nurse Practitioner in 1998. She received a Post-Master’s FNP Certificate from SUNY Health Science Center and she is a member of the Obesity Medicine Association.

Prior to joining Medical Weight Loss of NY in 2014, her experience includes gynecological care and health education and counseling for diabetic and hyperlipidemic patients. She enjoys encouraging and helping patients improve their quality of life through weight loss.

Katie Lockett, NP

Now practicing at Medical Weight Loss of New York, Katie has found her passion in helping individuals achieve sustainable weight loss and restore hormonal balance so they can truly feel their best. She enjoys working closely with patients to create personalized treatment plans that support not only physical health, but also confidence, energy, and overall quality of life. Katie is committed to helping each person feel supported throughout their journey so they can live healthier, happier, and more confident lives.

Aubryn Stelmashuck, NP

Aubryn is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner who completed her education at LeMoyne College in 2024.  She is passionate about weight management, natural and integrative medicine, as well as the prevention of chronic disease.  She believes in addressing the root cause of health concern and emphasizes sustainable lifestyle changes, nutrition and personalized treatment plans to help patients achieve long term wellness.

Shania Shuster, NP

Shania is a nurse practitioner and graduate of Le Moyne College who specializes in medical weight loss and metabolic health. She partners closely with her patients to create realistic, sustainable plans that fit their lifestyles and support long-term wellness.

Her approach combines clinical expertise with education and encouragement, helping patients build healthy habits while addressing the medical factors that can impact weight. Shania is committed to creating a judgment-free environment where patients feel supported every step of their journey.

“Find Your Form” is a tribute to every patient who has chosen to take a step toward better health. It celebrates the individuals — past, present, and future — who have made the decision to pursue a stronger, healthier version of themselves.

At MWL, we believe that choosing to improve your health takes courage, and we’re proud to support patients who are ready to make that commitment.

Every Journey Is Different

  • No two wellness journeys look exactly the same. For many patients, the motivation to begin comes from a moment that makes them realize it’s time for change.
  • Some people decide to take action after reaching a weight where they feel it’s time to regain control of their health.
  • Others begin their journey after receiving a diagnosis such as Type 2 diabetes, realizing that improving their lifestyle can make a meaningful difference.
  • For some, the inspiration is family — like becoming a grandparent and wanting the energy to stay active and involved in their grandchildren’s lives.
  • And sometimes, it’s the start of medications for conditions like high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea that encourages someone to focus more intentionally on their health.

Your Turning Point Matters

  • Whatever inspired your decision, the most important part is that you’re ready.
  • Ready to take the first step.
  • Ready to prioritize your health.
  • Ready to move forward and Find Your Form.
  • To us, “Find Your Form” is more than a phrase. It represents the moment you decide to take action and invest in your well-being.
  • Our team is honored to walk alongside you, offering guidance, encouragement, and support throughout your journey.

Let’s Find Your Form — Together

You don’t have to do this alone. At MWL, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Patient Stories

Check out our patients’ stories below and hear directly from patients about their experiences and success.

Sue

“The results for me were immediate, and I felt strong for the first time in over a year. I could articulate my thoughts without a struggle.”

When the hot flashes started, my plan was to just deal with them and let them run their course. However, I did not expect the fatigue or the brain fog. I was struggling through my workouts and struggling even more with finding words during presentations and meetings. I met with Dr. Scinta and discussed BHRT pellets as an option for me.

Honestly, I left the office not really sure this would help me and wasn’t convinced bioidentical hormones were what I needed. Until…I received the results of my blood work and found out my testosterone was down to an 8. I realized I needed to do something and scheduled an appointment for the insertion.

The results for me were immediate, and I felt strong for the first time in over a year. I also noticed my brain was not scrambling for words, and I could articulate my thoughts without a struggle. Who knew these symptoms were all interrelated?

I now know when I’m due for another insertion just by listening to my body. When I feel really tired for no obvious reason or the word struggle starts, I know it is time to call the office for a blood draw and schedule the next insertion.

I would recommend this therapy to anyone experiencing symptoms to see if hormone replacement is right for them. The staff at the office are wonderful and always take the time to answer all of your questions and concerns.

Ashley

Within a week of treatment, my energy returned, my mood lifted, and my body felt like my own again.

My 40s did not feel like the new 30. I was tired all the time, had no energy for my regular exercise, sleepless nights, muscle loss, brain fog, and my hair was falling out. Already struggling with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, experiencing all these symptoms—oh, and reduced sex drive—just seemed like a cruel joke. I felt trapped in a body I didn’t recognize or feel was my own. My emotions were all over the place, and I felt I was barely functioning most of the time.

After the free initial consultation, I met with Dr. Scinta and instantly felt a connection and hope! She explained the advantages of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy and gave me confidence that she could help. Her knowledge about hormones and their relationship to my hypothyroidism was what my primary medical care had missed for years. Deciding on Bioidentical Hormone Therapy was easy.

Within a week of my first treatment, my energy returned, my mood and emotions improved, and my body started to feel less foreign. After a few weeks, I felt like myself again—more vibrant than I had in a long time. My skin and complexion looked more youthful, exercise felt good again, I regained muscle, and my libido was back. My body felt like my own again. Dr. Scinta and her team are so caring and supportive and continue to be an integral part of my health journey. I am forever grateful to have found Dr. Scinta and the Medical Weight Loss team!

Billiejo

My recovery from workouts is as fast as in my 20s. My anxiety has tremendously improved, my focus is back, and hello libido!

Everyone warned me about turning 40 as a woman, but I honestly didn’t believe them. Then came 41 and 42, along with weight gain, insomnia, increased anxiety, decreased concentration, and their friend – zero libido.

I tried to lose weight with a nutrition coach. I started Adderall because I thought I had adult ADD, and I was chewing melatonin like candy and praying for a good night’s sleep. None of it worked.

It never occurred to me that it could ALL be my hormones until my husband found an article about the importance of testosterone replacement in women. I immediately scheduled an appointment with Dr. Scinta, and she was a breath of fresh air. For the first time in I don’t know how long, I felt seen and understood. She explained the whole process, answered all of my questions, and was just a delight to work with.

I have been on BHRT for over a year now, and I’m never going back. My recovery from workouts is as fast as in my 20s. My anxiety has tremendously improved, my focus and concentration are back, and hello libido! I tell everyone and anyone who will listen about the benefits of BHRT (including my other healthcare providers) because not enough women are talking about this! I finally feel human again, and I am so grateful.

If you’re pondering whether or not BHRT is for you, just do it. You won’t regret it.

Chris

Within weeks of my first insertion, ALL of my symptoms were gone!

All I can say is that BHRT is life-changing!

I had been struggling with menopause for 4 years. I checked off all the symptom boxes, with some so severe that I was becoming desperate and depressed. A friend told me about BHRT pellets and how much it helped her, but I couldn’t find anyone in my area that offered it.

I finally found Dr. Scinta, and since September 2022, I drive 5 hours each way from Massachusetts to New York every 3 months to get my pellet insertion. I do this because within weeks of my first insertion, ALL of my symptoms were gone! Dr. Scinta and her team have been amazing with my care, answering all of my questions and always providing clear explanations. I couldn’t recommend BHRT and Dr. Scinta more. The only request I have is that she will open another office in Massachusetts!

Shelly

I can’t imagine my life without hormone therapy—I feel 25 again, with renewed energy and health.

I feel like my young self again! I began experiencing all the classic symptoms of decreased hormone levels—fatigue, trouble sleeping, unexplained weight gain, brain fog, low libido—and was miserable. I started receiving Bioidentical Hormone Replacement pellets, and it changed my life. I can’t imagine going through the rest of my life without them. I literally feel 25 again, and over the first year of receiving the pellets, I lost 20 pounds! The staff at Dr. Scinta’s office is friendly, accommodating, and professional.

I’m committed to growing old gracefully, and continued hormone replacement will forever be part of my routine. There’s absolutely no reason to suffer from the symptoms of decreased hormone levels. Get a consultation today!

Laurie E.

BHRT has been a game changer for me! I have my life back. The majority of my aches and pains are gone.

I work out at the gym regularly and it used to take me several days to recuperate… not any more! I barely get sore now. My energy has increased significantly. My memory and focus have improved.  Literally the best thing I ever did for myself.  I am mentally and physically better off, and I wish I did it a long time ago.

Craig

BHRT has been a game-changer in my life, reducing brain fog and boosting my energy and focus.

I recently underwent BHRT treatment with MWL, and the positive impact it has had on my well-being is truly remarkable. From the moment I walked through the door, the team at MWL exuded professionalism and genuine care. Their expertise and commitment to providing personalized healthcare were evident throughout the entire process.

The BHRT treatment, specifically tailored to my needs, has been a game-changer in my life. The most noticeable improvements have been the reduction in brain fog and increased energy levels and focus. Dr. Scinta thoroughly explains the treatment process, potential side effects, and expected benefits.

I highly recommend their services to anyone seeking a holistic approach. My experience with MWL has not only improved my physical health but has also positively impacted my mental well-being, providing me with a renewed sense of vitality and happiness.

Nate
At 40 and 41, I’ve never felt better in my life—my energy, mood, and sex drive are like they were in my early 20s, thanks to BHRT.

My name is Nate, and I have been doing BHRT for 18 months now. I have always been into health and wellness, and I have tried every single thing under the sun to give myself that little extra edge in the gym and in life. My job is very physical, my hobbies are all physical, and I generally lead an extremely active lifestyle.

Once I got into my mid-30s, I started to notice a dramatic shift in my energy level and mood. I noticed that my body was getting a little softer in spite of always hitting it hard at the gym. It came on slowly at first, but once I got into my late-30s, I felt horrible all the time. Exhausted from sun up to sun down, I went to doctor after doctor, and they kept telling me that I was fine and I just needed to slow down. For three full years, I felt hopeless.

I was diagnosed with mild sleep apnea and was put on a CPAP machine. Then a friend told me about BHRT and Dr. Scinta. I immediately set up a consultation and found out that my testosterone levels were only 270! As an active, fit man in my late-30s, this was astonishing to me. I am someone who eats healthy and works hard. I have competed in two bodybuilding shows and multiple other athletic competitions.

After my first treatment, I expected some type of placebo effect and figured I wouldn’t really notice the difference. I can honestly say, at 40 and 41 years old, I have never felt better in my entire life. My mood, my energy, my sex drive, and my appetite for life are all like they were in my early 20s. It sounds too good to be true, but it’s not. I cannot recommend BHRT enough. I tell every single person I know about it.

Steve M.

Skeptical? That’s not my nature; however, I was regarding BHRT Therapy. At age 62 I thought I was doing just fine.

I did all the exercise programs with no progress. I was always tired around 2 pm. That truly changed after my first round of BHRT, not right away but after a few weeks. I noticed my exercise was more steadfast with the time going faster for results. After 18 months I am down almost thirty pounds because of increased vigor! My mood is noticeably better, and I feel like I did at 50. I highly recommend the BHRT and Dr.Scinta and the staff at MWL are just a joy to be around. They all want you to be healthier.

Michael

After three years of hormone pellet therapy, my bone density increased, and I gained more energy and better moods. It’s been a life-changing experience.

My journey to hormone therapy has been a long one with several failures. Many years of serious illness had drained my testosterone and my ability to replace much of it. My bone density was going in the wrong direction for over 15 years.

When I was 55, my wife convinced me to see Dr. Scinta and get educated on hormone pellet therapy. That decision changed everything for me. I’ve been on it for five years now, and I can’t imagine not ‘getting my pellets.’

I’ve experienced all the benefits we heard about, such as increased energy and better moods. The most shocking thing is that after three years of pellet therapy, my bone density increased! The thought of that happening never crossed my mind. The doctor who tracks my bone density was just as surprised as I was.

Dr. Scinta’s hormone replacement team makes this as easy as possible and pain-free. A simple blood test, and you’ll be on your way to getting off the couch. Typically, I feel the pellets start working in a week or two, and I’ve found that one treatment lasts approximately five months. I strongly encourage all men out there who need help with low T to give this a try. You won’t regret it, I’m positive. It’s a guarantee your wife will be happy too!

Hannah S.

After doing BHRT for a year and a half I felt so much better, but kept contemplating the weight loss treatment.

What makes this even more meaningful is that I did it while enrolled full-time in graduate school, finishing my MBA.

For years, I was afraid to take the first step. Between 2020 and 2024, while earning my bachelor’s degree, I gained nearly 100 pounds due to poor eating habits and a lack of exercise. My academics, sorority leadership, and extracurriculars always came first, while my health fell to the bottom of the list. That imbalance eventually caught up to me.

During the winter months of my junior and senior years, I reached my highest weight, which severely worsened my asthma. I was hospitalized with pneumonia two winters in a row, needed steroids to recover, and was constantly switching inhalers just to manage daily breathing. After another asthma exacerbation in December 2024, I realized I couldn’t wait any longer; I needed to make a change.

A few days after recovering, I scheduled my consultation. At first, I worried about balancing my weight loss journey with the demands of graduate school. But I also knew this was the best time in my life to take control and finally prioritize my health. By creating a more structured routine, I was able to fit in exercise four to five times a week; and in the process, I discovered a genuine love for weightlifting and staying active. I also learned how to make smarter food choices, finding healthier meals and snacks in my everyday places, and practicing intuitive eating while maintaining a calorie deficit.

Most importantly, I learned that losing weight while in college is possible. You don’t have to choose between academic success and your health; you can achieve both. All it takes is courage and a strong support system to keep you moving forward. For me, that support came from my parents and the incredible staff at Medical Weight Loss CNY.

Hayley S.

By my early forties, I realized the weight wasn’t coming off as easily as it used to—and I was exhausted and unmotivated.

The biggest wake-up call came from my bloodwork. My cholesterol was the highest it had ever been, and my glucose levels showed signs of pre-diabetes. From my very first appointment to my bi-weekly check-ins, the staff has been nothing but welcoming and encouraging. Since July 2024, I’m down over 40 pounds—and now I’m aiming for the last 15 by Thanksgiving. Without the check-ins, I know I wouldn’t be achieving my goals. You deserve to feel comfortable and confident in your own body.

Laurie

I have always had an issue with my weight. I began dieting as a teenager, and continued on the weight-loss/weight-gain roller coaster my entire adult life.

Food became my comfort, my drug, and my escape—and yet it only left me feeling worse. By last summer, my health was at its lowest point. I could barely walk, I was using a cane and a walker in my own home, and I feared that a wheelchair would soon be my only option.

I have been attending weekly appointments for 11 ½ months now, and I have lost 124 pounds during that time. I feel like I have my life back! I have so much energy every day, and I feel so good about myself and all of the progress I’ve made.

It’s a relief to know that I no longer have to deal with my food issues on my own. I have support, inspiration, and accountability at any time. Thank you to the wonderful Dr. Scinta and everyone who is part of Medical Weight Loss of NY!

Jane A.

As I begin my story, I first have to say: “Dr. Wendy Scinta has saved my life.” Not only physically, but also mentally and emotionally!

I have always been an active person. I taught Pilates and Zumba for 5 hours a week. But after Covid, I had no energy, I was exhausted and gaining weight! My whole outlook on life was not good.

I had an appointment with my endocrinologist to find out why I was feeling this way. I wondered if my hypothyroidism wasn’t working properly. All my numbers were great, but the doctor couldn’t explain the tiredness and weight gain. She recommended I see Dr. Wendy Scinta at MEDICAL WEIGHT LOSS OF NY.

From there, my whole life totally improved. When I started seeing Dr. Scinta, she ordered extensive testing so we could figure out what was wrong. We discovered I had very low testosterone and very high estrogen. After discussing my options, I decided to try the BHRT method instead of oral medication, which is a chemical that goes through the liver. The natural hormone goes directly into the bloodstream. I’m so happy I chose it. I can’t believe the difference in how I feel and the clarity of my mind.

My energy has returned – I feel like I did when I was younger. Dr. Scinta also told me I was low in B vitamins. I asked what I should do, and she introduced me to LIPOTROPIC, which is a vitamin injection. It has added to my energy and helped with weight loss as well.

I then met with the nutritionist, Martha, who helped me see that I wasn’t eating enough protein and was eating too many carbs. I learned that the more protein I ate, the less hungry I would feel. By eating more protein, I wouldn’t lose muscle mass. Instead, I lost stored fat. I reached my goal in 5 months, and I’m on maintenance now and still succeeding.

When I believed all was lost, Dr. Scinta and her very knowledgeable staff turned my life around. There need to be more doctors like Dr. Wendy Scinta in this world.

I highly recommend Dr. Wendy Scinta at MEDICAL WEIGHT LOSS OF NY! They are all willing to help you, whether you want to lose 5 lbs or 300 lbs. They are there to help you reach your goals!

Thank you, Dr. Wendy Scinta, for truly listening to me and saving my life!

Johanna N.

After doing BHRT for a year and a half I felt so much better, but kept contemplating the weight loss treatment.

26 pounds down in 7 months!

After doing BHRT for a year and a half I felt so much better, but kept contemplating the weight loss treatment. My hormones were under control, but I was still struggling to get the pounds off. In my mind I was doing everything right. Working out 5 days a week, high protein diet, cliff bars, chicken, eggs, etc. I didn’t want to spend the money because I thought I knew how to do it. I finally took the plunge and got on the website to schedule a weight loss consultation.

This was the best thing I could have done for myself!!! When they say weight loss is a science that is spot on!! You can’t lose weight unless you are in a calorie deficit and while on the right track, I was doing everything wrong! I never knew a calorimetry test existed! I was amazed at the technology to test your metabolic rate making you aware of just how many calories you should consume to lose weight! Nutritionist Martha sat with me for an hour and we came up with a plan. This plan has changed my life. It’s not just a diet, I wanted a lifestyle change and I now have it. I didn’t want to just eat protein bars and drink shakes forever because that isn’t sustainable for my lifestyle. You can eat food! You may just need some guidance! Without MWLNY and Martha I wouldn’t have figured it all out.

After 7 months I am down 26 pounds and feel amazing!! I will continue working to achieve my goal, and maintain my new lifestyle. Make the call, invest in yourself! YOU are worth it!!

Bill R. (B. Reed)

I was extremely skeptical about using GLP-1s at first, but I honestly wish I had found Dr. Scinta, and the Medical Weight Loss team much earlier.

I’ve struggled with my weight since my early 20s, riding the same frustrating up-and-down roller coaster for years. I tried different approaches, had short-term success, then gained it back, over and over again. After our second daughter was born, I even had gastric sleeve surgery. While I did lose weight initially, it wasn’t accompanied by the lifestyle changes, education, or ongoing support I truly needed. Over time, the weight came back, and so did the discouragement and disappointment. Fast forward to now, just five months into this program, I’m down 50 pounds, and my life looks completely different. Before starting, I was pre-diabetic, my lab results were concerning, and I felt like I was headed down a dead-end road with no clear way out. Today, I feel healthier, more confident, and genuinely back in control of my life. What makes this experience different is the support and accountability. The biweekly check-ins and ongoing dialogue with Katie (NP) have been a game changer. This isn’t just about losing weight, it’s about changing my relationship with food, learning sustainable habits, and finally breaking the cycle I’ve lived in for decades. I’m sleeping better, my energy is up, my mindset has shifted, my marriage is the best it’s ever been, and for the first time in years, I feel hopeful instead of fearful about my future. My wife recently told me that she’s never seen me so confident and proud of myself, and that honestly means everything to me. I do feel proud – not just of the weight I’ve lost, but of the work I’m doing to truly take my health back. My wife and I, as well as our girls, are so incredibly grateful for this journey

William

In just 7 months, I’ve lost nearly 115 pounds, reduced my medications, and my asthma is virtually gone. This program has completely transformed my life, and I couldn’t be more grateful!

Starting my weight loss journey with Medical Weight Loss CNY, on my sister’s recommendation (even though I live almost 3 hours away), has been life-changing. Using New Direction shakes and bars, I’ve lost nearly 115 pounds in just 7 months—and I’m still aiming to lose another 50.

The visible transformation is amazing, but what really blows me away is how much my health has improved. I’m almost completely off my blood pressure medications, and my asthma is practically non-existent now. This program hasn’t just helped me lose weight—it’s dramatically improved my overall well-being. I’m incredibly grateful for the support and guidance I’ve received throughout this journey.

Update:

William came in two months later for his maintenance visit and has now lost 150 lb!