BMI verification for your weight loss treatment
As part of your weight loss treatment request with ZAVA, we ask you to take a few photos to help our doctors confirm your BMI and make sure your treatment is safe and right for you.
We understand that taking and sharing photos may feel unfamiliar or uncomfortable. We hope that by explaining the process in detail, including which photos you’ll need to take, how it works, and how we protect your information, we can help you feel more comfortable and confident before getting started.
When and how to complete your BMI verification
If you're starting weight loss treatment with ZAVA for the first time, or switching to us from another provider, you’ll need to complete a BMI verification before your treatment can be prescribed.
After submitting your treatment request, you’ll have two options to complete this step:
- Start straight away: You’ll receive a link in your order confirmation email that takes you directly to the BMI verification process.
- Wait for your doctor’s request: If you prefer, you can wait for your doctor to review your questionnaire first. If BMI verification is needed, we’ll send you a request.
To help us review your request as quickly as possible, we recommend completing your BMI verification as soon as you can.
Why we need to verify your BMI
If we can’t confirm patients are the BMI they are reporting they are, it means we can’t guarantee we’re prescribing safely. We really appreciate your help in making our service as safe as possible by submitting photos for verification." Dr. Zenon Andreou, Chief Medical Officer at ZAVA
What photos you’ll be asked to take
For each photo we ask for, we’ll make sure to give detailed guidance so you’ll know exactly how to take your photos correctly.
You’ll also have the chance to retake photos as many times as you need to in order to get them right, so there’s no need to worry about messing up.
Only the final photos you submit to us will be stored, so any you retake are automatically deleted.
Can I have a friend take my photos?
Yes, if it’s easier for you and you’re comfortable with it, you can have someone else take your photos. Simply have them hold the phone for you when taking your timed pictures.
What to wear and how to prepare the space
During the guided process, we’ll show you exactly how to prepare, from choosing the right clothing to setting up your phone or asking someone to help. You don’t need to memorise anything now; we’ll guide you through each step once you start.
Here’s a quick overview so you know what to expect:
What to wear
- Wear a fitted top that shows the shape of your body
- If your top covers your stomach, pull it up so your stomach is clearly visible
- Wear fitted leggings, trousers, or shorts
- If you feel comfortable, you can wear underwear instead
Where to take your photos
- Choose a room with good lighting
- Make sure there’s enough space to raise your arms and take a few steps to either side and behind you
- Clear any obstacles so you have a full view in the camera
How to set up your phone (or get help)
- Place your phone on a surface around waist height, like a desk or table
- Lean your phone securely against something sturdy, like a pile of books
- If someone is helping you, make sure they take the photos from around waist height by sitting, kneeling, or crouching
How the process works
You’ll be guided through the entire process step-by-step, with clear instructions for each photo. There’s no need to rush; you’ll have the chance to review and retake each photo before submitting.
Here’s how it works:
- Use your phone or laptop, no app download needed.
- Follow the instructions to take each of the 3 required photos.
- Review your photos and retake them if needed.
- When you're happy, submit your photos securely for our doctors to review.
Important: Photos must be taken live using the tool. You won’t be able to upload photos saved on your device.
Photo 1 - feet on scales
- Stand on your scales, ensuring that both your feet and the weight reading are clearly visible on your phone screen.
- After taking the photo, check if it’s suitable. If not, feel free to retake it. If it looks good, you can move on to the next step.
Photo 2 - full body from the front
- Position your phone on a waist-height surface and prop it up to face you, or ask someone to hold it at the correct height.
- Make sure your entire body is fully visible in the camera frame.
- Stand with your arms and legs slightly apart, similar to a body scan at airport security.
- Ensure part of your stomach is uncovered so that the skin is visible.
Photo 3 - full body from the side
- Position your phone on a waist-height surface and prop it up to face you, or ask someone to hold it at the correct height.
- Make sure your entire body fits within the frame when taking the photo.
- Stand sideways and hold your arms straight out in front of you, so your belly and lower back are not covered.
- Ensure part of your stomach is uncovered so the skin is clearly visible.>
Reviewing and submitting
Once you’ve submitted your photos, they will be made available for your doctor to review and decide whether your treatment request can be approved.
How does ZAVA store your photos?
Your photos are securely stored in ZAVA’s medical system, in line with strict confidentiality standards and UK data protection laws.
Our systems are ISO 27001 certified, an internationally recognised standard for information security and risk management. This ensures your personal data is handled with care and protection.
Here’s how we keep your photos secure:
- Only the photos you submit at the end of the process are saved as part of your secure medical record
- Any photos you retake during the process, or if you restart the process, are not saved
- If you use the guided live photo capture tool, your photos are transmitted securely without being saved on your device
- All submitted photos are encrypted and securely stored within our protected medical systems
- Your photos are kept in line with legal and regulatory requirements for healthcare providers
We are committed to protecting your personal data and keeping your information private. You can find more information about how we handle and protect your data in our Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is our Photo Tool different from uploading photos?
Our Photo Tool allows you to take and submit photos there and then. This means you don’t need to take photos separately and submit them. This allows for a smoother photo submission journey and avoids the need for timestamps to be included in your photos.
Do I need to download an app?
No, this journey will work in your normal browser so there is no need to download an additional app to complete it. If you have any problems completing the journey in your browser, please contact us and we will try and help you resolve the issue.
What will happen to the photos I take?
Only the final photos you submitted are saved and any that you choose to retake are deleted. Photos won’t be stored on your phone and are instead stored securely on our servers. These photos are only stored and used for BMI verification and will not be shared or used for any other purpose.
What if I don’t have a set of scales?
Don’t worry; you can still complete your BMI verification even if you don’t have scales at home.
You can take your photos somewhere you can access a set of scales, such as a pharmacy, gym, or a friend’s house. If you do this, you’ll need to take all 3 photos at the same time, so it's a good idea to plan ahead before you start.
Alternatively, you can use our Upload tool.
This allows you to take your photos separately. For example, you can take your scale photo while you’re out and your full-body photos later at home and then upload them together once you have all 3 ready.
We’ll guide you through whichever option works best for you.
Feeling ready to submit your photos?
Submit photos