Semaglutide and other GLP-1 medications like tirzepatide have taken the world by storm. While first approved for management of diabetes, their second indication for the treatment of obesity is truly what catapulted names like “Ozempic,” “Wegovy,” and “Monjaro” to common vernacular. By binding to GLP-1 receptors, these medications regulate appetite and blood sugar, which can result in significant weight reduction. While this is a game changer as a weight loss method, rapid weight loss can also lead to some unintended side effects, such as “Ozempic face.”
What is “Ozempic face”?
Rapid weight loss can lead to sagging skin or hollowness/gauntness of the face. This is because facial fat plays a huge role in the youthful appearance of the face (hence the term “baby fat”). The speed at which weight loss occurs can exacerbate this effect; weight loss tends to be much quicker with GLP-1 medications than without them. This can mean that muscle and other tissue is being broken down and lost in addition to fat. This extends beyond the face to the body as well, since there is no way to preferentially select areas to lose from first. Rapid loss of volume in the face can lead to sagging of the skin and contour changes that may contribute to a hollow or gaunt appearance.
How to prevent “Ozempic face”?
It is good practice to pair GLP-1 medications with higher protein intake and some form of strength training in order to maintain muscle mass and bone density for long-term health benefits. Protecting the skin from the sun (hats, UPF clothing, daily SPF) and moderating the rate of weight loss can also help preserve skin elasticity and volume. Changes in facial contours are almost inevitable after weight loss, but rapid weight loss can also lead to unwanted appearance changes in the face.
How to treat “Ozempic face”?
Adjunctive aesthetic treatments like dermal fillers can be considered for treatment of areas of volume loss. These would include treatments such as HA fillers, Sculptra, or Radiesse. Skin tightening or skin lifting treatments like RF microneedling, Thermage, HIFU, or Ultherapy can also be considered for skin quality and texture. Multi-modal treatments may offer better results than any single aesthetic treatment.
What options are there for maintaining muscle mass?
Skin tightening treatments can also be done on the body to address skin laxity and elasticity. Similarly to that of the face, skin of the body can change in texture and elasticity post-weight loss. Treatments like RF skin tightening or RF microneedling can be done on the body to treat some cases of skin laxity.
Muscle-building EMS (electrical muscle stimulation) treatments like Accufit or Emsculpt can help augment muscle tone and help maintain muscle mass. Building muscle helps lead to a leaner, more toned appearance all while improving functional strength. Think of a muscle-stimulating EMS treatment an exercise augmentation. Diet and caloric intake play a huge role in weight loss, while exercise and refining macronutrients in the diet helps with body recomposition and visible body shaping. Building muscle through a treatment like Accufit can help maintain or even build muscle mass despite weight loss.
To schedule your Accufit treatment in Los Angeles, give DSC a call! Our dedicated consultants and providers can help you determine a custom-made treatment plan to help you reach your body sculpting goals!
DSC Laser & Skin Care Center
www.dscbeauty.com
(626)285-0800
info@dscbeauty.com
889 S. San Gabriel Blvd, San Gabriel, CA 91776
