GLP-1 drugs are FDA approved medications that are prescribed for both diabetes and weight loss. People who have had difficulty losing weight have achieved amazing results with a GLP-1 drug. While these people may be happy with the inches they’ve lost in various places on the body, one unexpected side effect may be the noticeable loss of facial fullness.
The loss of facial fat can leave hollowing around the eyes, sunken cheeks, loose skin along the jawline, wrinkled foreheads, thinning lips, and deep nasolabial folds from the corners of the nose to the mouth. People tend to appear older and more tired. Although Ozempic® is not the only GLP-1 medication, the term “Ozempic face” has become synonymous with the after effects of rapid weight loss. However, the same facial changes can occur with any type of rapid weight loss, including bariatric surgery.
Will I need a facelift after GLP-1 weight loss?
The answer is maybe, if facial changes are significant. These three facial changes are typical after rapid weight loss.
- Decreased facial fat – Facial fat adds fullness to the features, helping us to look young and healthy.
- Increased signs of aging – Losing facial fat leads to visible signs of aging by hollowing the features and making us appear gaunt and older.
- Loss of skin elasticity – Weight loss causes a loss of collagen and elastin, proteins that give the skin structure and support. This leads to wrinkles and sagginess.
Can these negative facial effects be reversed?
Some minimally invasive procedures may be helpful. Facial fillers can restore some of the lost volume. Facial fat grafting may also be helpful in restoring fullness. Skin tightening procedures, such as Ultherapy®, use ultrasound technology to lift, tone, and tighten loose skin along the face, neck, and chest. These cosmetic procedures may help people with mild to moderate loss of facial volume or laxity.
Should I consider surgery?
Those who have lost substantial weight in their face and neck will generally achieve the best results with a facelift. Sagging skin, deep creases, jowls, and other visible signs of aging are addressed during facelift surgery. Facial muscles are repositioned, if necessary, and excess skin is removed. The face will be restored to a more youthful appearance.
Boca Raton Plastic Surgery Center
Dr. Cristina Keusch is a highly skilled plastic surgeon who tailors facelift procedures to the unique needs of each patient. Each surgery is highly customized to achieve natural-looking results that restore confidence and help you realize your aesthetic goals. Contact us to schedule a consultation.