Gina Nichols, MD, joined the Columbus Medical Association as a new member in January 2026. Dr. Nichols is a board-certified family physician and founder of Ideal Weight Loss Cosmetic Center.

What inspired you to pursue a career in medicine?
While it may sound familiar, my motivation was deeply personal. I lost my mother to breast cancer when she was just 31 years old. That experience shaped my decision to pursue medicine, initially with the goal of contributing to the search for a cure. Years later, I completed my residency in the very same hospital where she passed—a full-circle moment that reinforced my commitment to patient care, prevention, and doing everything possible to help others avoid similar loss. 

What are your areas of clinical/professional interest?
Overall wellness-longevity. Advancing longer, healthier, and more beautiful lives.  

What’s one thing you’d like your colleagues to know about you or your work?
I’ve successfully integrated weight loss with post-loss body contouring and aesthetics, recognizing early that patients don’t stop at the scale — they want to look how they feel.  

What’s your favorite restaurant in Columbus? 
Without a doubt, 3rd & Hollywood. I still miss their French toast—but now it’s the Hollywood Salad for me.  

When you’re not working, how do you like to spend your free time?
Travel is my favorite pastime—whether for food, business, or family. I make time for it whenever I can.  

What’s a fun fact about you that people might not know? 
I’m an empty nester, soon-to-be ‘Gigi,’ and my kids now live coast to coast—so travel is my new normal.