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The recent rise in use of weight loss injections like Ozempic, a popular medication among those with Type 2 diabetes, has seen an uptick in patients exploring cosmetic procedures to counteract certain undesirable side effects, a phenomenon referred to as “Ozempic face.”
Ozempic is a brand version of the diabetes drug semaglutide, also known as Wegovy. It has grabbed the spotlight in Hollywood for its influence on satiety and ensuing weight loss.
Upon taking Ozempic, Jeniffer Brown managed to shed 40 lbs. in a span of a year without any change in diet or exercise. While meeting her weight goal and moving away from being prediabetic, she faced the unintended consequence of rapid weight loss – loose skin and hollowed cheeks, or “Ozempic face.” This is a direct result of fat loss, leading to a gaunt appearance.
According to Dr. Oren Tepper, a noted plastic surgeon based in New York, such weight reduction can cause aging of facial features. In reality, facial fat is often a protective component against aging, he stated.
In Brown’s words, her face resembled a “melted candle” post-weight loss. Addressing this issue, she sought the help of a plastic surgeon and opted for dermal fillers targeting her cheeks, jowls, and jawline. The experience, according to Brown, was akin to managing a dream weight while investing heavily in maintaining this new look – around $25,000 on plastic surgery and regular filler appointments.
Medical practitioners often resort to non-invasive yet costly procedures to restore facial volume. This could involve injecting substances such as Radiesse, hyaluronic acid-based fillers, or Sculptra, which helps stimulate collagen production. Other options include fat transfers from other parts of the body or a facelift.
Dr. John Diaz, another renowned plastic surgeon in Los Angeles, stated that many of his clients use Ozempic or similar weight loss shots. He emphasized that these patients are already conscious about their appearance and are more inclined to seek cosmetic solutions.
Patients dealing with the visible changes from weight loss drugs and seeking remedial measures is a daily occurrence, as per Dr. Alan Matarasso, another New York-based plastic surgeon. Ozempic has, according to him, created a new category of prospective plastic surgery patients looking to correct not only facial changes, but changes to the breasts, abdomen, and thighs as well.
