Impact of Ozempic and Similar Medications on Facial Appearance

What is it about?

This article discusses the effects of medications like Ozempic, which contain semaglutide and are used for weight loss and diabetes management, on facial appearance. Semaglutide-based drugs belong to the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist class and work by regulating appetite and promoting weight loss. Clinical trials have demonstrated their effectiveness in reducing body weight and improving metabolic parameters. While Ozempic is FDA-approved for diabetes, it is also used off-label for weight loss alone. However, one significant concern is the rapid weight and fat loss associated with these medications, leading to what's known as the "Ozempic face." This phenomenon results in facial volume and fat depletion, causing wrinkles and sagging skin. These changes in facial appearance, including alterations in the lips, cheeks, and chin, are often distressing to patients. Providers prescribing Ozempic and similar medications rarely counsel patients about these potential facial changes. This poses a challenge for the plastic surgery community, as individuals using these medications may seek treatments to mitigate the effects on facial appearance. Dermal fillers, skin tightening techniques, and surgical interventions can help restore facial volume and address excess skin. Additionally, patients considering surgery should be aware of potential complications, nutritional considerations, and the timing of surgical interventions in their weight loss journey.

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Photo by Sam Moghadam Khamseh on Unsplash

Photo by Sam Moghadam Khamseh on Unsplash

Why is it important?

The growing global concern of obesity and its related health issues, including diabetes, has led to the emergence of semaglutide-based medications like Ozempic as potential solutions. These drugs have gained attention for their effectiveness in promoting weight loss and improving metabolic parameters. The "Ozempic face" phenomenon, characterized by rapid fat loss in the face, raises concerns about the impact of these medications on facial appearance. Patients who experience significant weight loss may appear older due to facial aging. This poses a unique challenge for plastic surgeons, as patients may seek treatments to address these unwanted facial changes. Plastic surgery procedures, such as dermal fillers, skin tightening techniques, and even surgery, can help restore facial volume and mitigate the effects of rapid weight loss. However, surgical interventions must be carefully considered, taking into account nutritional deficiencies and wound healing issues associated with weight loss. Patients need comprehensive information about potential complications and costs when discussing treatment options. As the popularity of weight loss medications like Ozempic grows, plastic surgeons must be knowledgeable about both the perioperative considerations and the potential impact on facial appearance. Providing patients with appropriate guidance and treatment options can help improve their self-esteem and overall satisfaction. KEY TAKEAWAY: Medications like Ozempic, containing semaglutide, are effective for weight loss and diabetes management. However, they can lead to rapid facial fat loss, known as the "Ozempic face." This poses challenges for the plastic surgery community, as patients may seek interventions to address these changes. Treatments such as dermal fillers, skin tightening techniques, and surgery can help restore facial volume. Surgical procedures should be timed carefully, considering nutritional needs and wound healing. It's crucial to inform patients about potential complications and costs associated with these treatments. As the popularity of such medications grows, plastic surgeons must be prepared to manage both the perioperative aspects and their impact on facial appearance.