The Rise of “Ozempic Face” and Its Impact on Cosmetic Procedures
The phenomenon known as “Ozempic face” has become a significant concern for cosmetic surgeons across the United States. This term refers to the sagging skin and hollowed-out appearance that some individuals experience after losing weight through medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. These drugs, which are primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes, have gained popularity for their off-label use in weight management. As more people turn to these medications, the demand for cosmetic procedures to address the side effects has surged.
Understanding the Mechanism Behind Weight Loss Medications
GLP-1 medications such as semaglutide work by stimulating the pancreas to produce insulin, which helps curb appetite and promote feelings of fullness. While these drugs have been effective in helping individuals lose weight, they can also lead to unintended consequences. Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank, a celebrity cosmetic dermatologist, has observed a dramatic increase in patients experiencing unwanted side effects. He noted that the loss of facial volume can make individuals look older, leading to a “deflated” appearance.
The Surge in Cosmetic Procedures
As more people use GLP-1 medications, the number of cosmetic procedures being sought has increased significantly. According to data from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), 2 in 5 of its members’ GLP-1 patients are considering undergoing cosmetic surgery, and 1 in 5 have already had procedures. Common treatments include injectable dermal fillers, facelifts, and fat transfers. Dr. Frank emphasized that while some patients may require surgical intervention, others find that increasing the dosage of their volume replacement is sufficient.
Real-Life Experiences of Patients
Kimberly Bongiorno, a 55-year-old land use administrator from Mount Arlington, New Jersey, shared her experience with the effects of Wegovy. After losing weight through gastric sleeve surgery and then regaining 40 pounds during the pandemic, she was prescribed Wegovy. While the drug helped her lose weight, it also led to a noticeable change in her appearance. She described her face as looking “melted” and felt disheartened by the changes. After consulting with Dr. Anthony Berlet, she underwent a deep plane facelift and neck lift, which significantly improved her appearance.
The Growing Demand for Facelifts and Fillers
The number of facelifts performed in the US has increased by 8% between 2022 and 2023, according to ASPS data. Additionally, the use of hyaluronic acid fillers has doubled from 2.6 million Americans in 2017 to over 5.2 million in 2023. While these upticks cannot be solely attributed to GLP-1 use, the impact of these medications on aesthetic surgery is evident. Dr. Steven Williams, former president of ASPS, noted that GLP-1s have had a global effect on aesthetic surgery, providing a new tool for weight loss without substantial drawbacks compared to invasive procedures.
The Role of Age in Facial Changes
Age plays a crucial role in how patients’ faces react to weight loss. Younger individuals, particularly those in their 20s and 30s, are less likely to experience the appearance of aging due to GLP-1 use. This is because they have better skin elasticity, allowing their skin to rebound more effectively. However, both hyaluronic acid filler use and facelift procedures among younger patients are on the rise.
Gabriela Vasquez, a 29-year-old employee at Tri Valley Plastic Surgery, is among the younger patients using GLP-1 to undergo cosmetic procedures after rapid weight loss. She has dropped around 50 pounds since starting Ozempic and has sought preventative Botox injections and microneedling to address concerns about her jowls and skin texture.
The Broader Implications of Weight Loss Medications
Beyond facial changes, weight loss medications can also lead to muscle loss, particularly when weight is lost at a rate of more than one to two pounds per week. This can result in a range of issues, including loose skin and muscle tone. The ASPS has noted the emergence of the term “Ozempic makeover,” which includes procedures such as tummy tucks, breast lifts, and arm, thigh, and buttock lifts.
Bongiorno, who has undergone several procedures, estimates that she will have spent about $80,000 on cosmetic procedures. She emphasized that her goal was not to become a supermodel but to feel comfortable and confident in her own skin.
Ongoing Questions and Future Considerations
The long-term effects of GLP-1 medications on cosmetic medicine remain to be fully understood. While some assumptions about reduced demand for liposuction have not materialized, the procedure remains popular. Additionally, the impact of “Ozempic rebound,” where patients regain weight after stopping the drugs, on those who have undergone cosmetic procedures is still unclear.
Dr. Williams stressed the importance of taking responsibility for patients’ entire journey, not just their cosmetic procedures. He emphasized the need to discuss lifestyle changes, diet, and exercise to ensure long-term health and well-being.
