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What is “Ozempic Face”?

Understanding ‘Ozempic Face’: Causes, Effects, and Solutions

In recent years, medications like Ozempic (semaglutide) have gained popularity for their effectiveness in promoting rapid weight loss. However, a notable side effect has emerged, termed “Ozempic face.” This phenomenon refers to the facial changes—such as sunken cheeks, sagging skin, and a hollowed appearance—that are accompanied by significant weight loss.

What Causes ‘Ozempic Face’?

The primary culprit behind “Ozempic face” is the rapid loss of subcutaneous fat in the face. Subcutaneous fat provides volume and youthful contours to the face. When this fat diminishes quickly, the skin may not have adequate time to adjust, leading to:

  • Hollowed cheeks and temples
  • Sagging skin around the jawline and neck
  • Increased visibility of wrinkles and fine lines
  • A generally aged or gaunt appearance

These changes are not exclusive to Ozempic users; they can occur with any rapid weight loss, whether through medication, surgery, or extreme dieting.

Addressing Facial Volume Loss

To combat the hollowed and sunken appearance resulting from fat loss, several treatments can help restore facial volume:

1. Sculptra

Sculptra is an injectable treatment that stimulates collagen production. Unlike traditional fillers that provide immediate volume, Sculptra works gradually, leading to a more natural and long-lasting restoration of facial fullness. It’s particularly effective for larger areas of volume loss, such as the cheeks and temples.

2. Hyper-Dilute Radiesse

Radiesse, when diluted, acts both as a filler and a biostimulant. This treatment not only restores volume but also improves skin texture and elasticity by stimulating collagen production. It’s suitable for areas requiring subtle volume enhancement and skin tightening. 

Tackling Skin Laxity and Sagging

In addition to volume loss, rapid weight loss can lead to skin laxity and sagging. The following treatments can help tighten and rejuvenate the skin:

1. Radiofrequency (RF) Microneedling

This procedure combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen and elastin production. It effectively tightens and lifts the skin, reduces wrinkles, and improves overall skin texture and tone.

2. PCL Thread Lift

A minimally invasive procedure, the PCL (polycaprolactone) thread lift involves inserting biodegradable threads under the skin to lift and support sagging areas. Over time, these threads stimulate collagen production, enhancing skin firmness and elasticity.

3. Tixel Treatment

Tixel is a skin resurfacing treatment that uses controlled thermal energy to stimulate collagen production. It improves skin texture, reduces fine lines, and tightens sagging skin, offering a rejuvenated appearance with minimal downtime.

Treating Lines and Wrinkles

1. Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
 
For immediate improvement, we can inject hyaluronic acid fillers directly into lines and wrinkles to diminish their appearance.
2. Micro-Needling with Exosomes or PRF
 
Microneedling is an effective treatment for softening fine lines and improving overall skin texture. By creating controlled micro-injuries with tiny needles, it stimulates collagen production and boosts skin rejuvenation. It also opens up your pores, making your skin more receptive to topical products. Pairing microneedling with PRF or Exosomes can significantly enhance your results, promoting deeper healing and longer-lasting improvements.
Preventative Measures

While treatments are available, prevention is always preferable. To minimize the risk of developing “Ozempic face”:

  • Aim for gradual weight loss: Losing weight at a slower pace allows the skin to adjust more effectively.
  • Maintain a balanced diet: Ensure adequate intake of proteins, healthy fats, and essential nutrients to support skin health.
  • Stay hydrated: Proper hydration helps maintain skin elasticity.
  • Incorporate strength training: Building muscle mass can provide better support to the skin, reducing the appearance of sagging.

We always recommend using skincare as a preventative measure and a treatment! Skincare products like Retinol, Hyaluronic Acid, Protexidine, Vitamin C., and more are great and necessary products for anti-aging! 

Conclusion

“Ozempic face” shows the importance of understanding the potential aesthetic implications of rapid weight loss. By being informed and proactive, individuals can take steps to preserve their facial aesthetics while achieving their weight loss goals. Consulting with healthcare professionals and aesthetic specialists can provide personalized strategies to address and prevent these changes.

If you’re considering or currently undergoing a weight loss journey and are concerned about its impact on your facial appearance, don’t hesitate to reach out to our clinic. Our team is dedicated to helping you achieve your health and aesthetic goals harmoniously.