Semaglutide medications completely revolutionized the medical weight loss landscape. The most well-known form of semaglutide — Ozempic, for type 2 diabetes — is now a household name. Semaglutide, branded as Wegovy, received FDA-approval for weight loss in 2021. Semaglutide, Ozempic, and Wegovy are all the same medication. Most people know this medication simply as Ozempic.
The cultural impact of Ozempic is undeniable. Mentions of the medication have skyrocketed on social media, and celebrities ranging from Oprah Winfrey and Kelly Clarkson to Sharon Osbourne and Amy Schumer have spoken about it.
You’ve likely become familiar with the new buzzy slang term: Ozempic face. If you are using or considering using a weight loss medication like semaglutide, you’re probably curious to know what exactly this means. Is Ozempic face real? Does it happen to everyone? Can Ozempic face be prevented?
What Is Ozempic?
Ozempic is a brand of semaglutide for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. While not originally intended for weight loss, many patients experience significant weight reduction as a side effect. This led to its popularity as an off-label weight loss treatment.
In 2021, semaglutide received FDA-approval for weight loss under the brand of the medication called Wegovy. So, Semaglutide is an FDA-approved weight-loss medication for individuals with obesity or excess weight with weight-related conditions. We offer semaglutide (Wegovy) as part of our medical weight loss programs. We also offer tirzepatide (marketed under the brand names Mounjaro and Zepbound). These medications have shown exceptional results in clinical settings, as well as among the many wonderful patients we’ve served
“I did the weight loss program and lost 40 lbs. I just can’t say enough about Dr. Bass and his team. Go see them for any of your needs. You will not be disappointed!” — Tina W.
What Is Ozempic Face?
Our faces contain fat pads that provide structure and support to our skin. Healthy fat pads help our faces appear youthful.
Those fad pads naturally and gradually diminish as we get older. But, when we lose a substantial amount of weight in a condensed period of time, the fat pads diminish rapidly.
Additionally, our skin may not have enough elasticity to adjust to these changes. We are left with a noticeable loss of volume, as well as sagging, loose, and wrinkled skin. This is what many people have started to call Ozempic face.
What Does Ozempic Face Look Like?
The combination of facial volume loss and increased skin laxity creates the characteristic look of Ozempic face:
- A more gaunt or hollow appearance
- Increased visibility of wrinkles and fine lines
- A sunken appearance around the eyes
- Sagging skin, particularly around the cheeks and jawline
These changes come together to create the impression that the face has aged, perhaps to a degree that exceeds the individual’s chronological age.
Why Does Ozempic Face Happen?
There is no scientific evidence that semaglutide weight loss medications specifically target fat in the face or have an effect on the skin.
What we do know, and have known for decades, is that facial fat loss and loss of skin elasticity are possibilities any time significant body weight is rapidly lost.
Studies show that people who experience massive weight loss by any means are more likely to look older in the face than those who don’t. It is a natural consequence of weight loss, not a specific side effect of Ozempic.
Can Ozempic Face Happen With Other Medications?
Facial changes are not unique to Ozempic use. Loose, sagging skin and wrinkles can occur with any weight loss medication, as well as bariatric surgery or lifestyle changes.
Can You Prevent the Facial Side Effects of Ozempic?
While it is challenging to prevent the facial changes associated with rapid weight loss, you can employ strategies to minimize the impact:
Lose Weight Gradually
If possible, use a Wegovy or Mounjaro dosage that promotes gradual weight loss. Aim for steady, sustainable progress to give your skin more time to adapt to the decrease in facial volume.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water helps maintain skin elasticity and promotes overall skin health. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water each day.
Focus On Nutrition
Eat a diet rich in proteins, vitamins and minerals that support skin elasticity and muscle tone. Consider incorporating foods high in vitamins C and E, which support collagen production.
Care For Your Skin
Maintain a consistent skincare routine with products that moisturize and support collagen production. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to shield your skin from UV damage that worsens fine lines and wrinkles.
Treatments for “Ozempic Face” in Knoxville and Oak Ridge
We understand that while you may be thrilled with your weight loss results, you might be less excited about changes to your face and skin. We offer a range of treatments at Shea Aesthetic Clinic to restore volume and improve skin quality so you feel as confident as you deserve to be.
Facial Fillers
Our expert providers use dermal fillers to restore lost volume in key areas of your face. We offer a variety of filler options, including the JUVÉDERM collection and the RHA Collection, to address different concerns and create natural-looking results.
PRP Injections
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatments work with your body’s own healing powers to rejuvenate your skin. This natural approach improves skin texture and tone while stimulating collagen production.
Microneedling (SkinPen)
Our FDA-approved SkinPen microneedling treatments help improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and stimulate collagen production for overall skin rejuvenation.
RF Microneedling (Morpheus8)
Morpheus8 combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy for more dramatic results. This treatment is particularly effective for addressing skin laxity and more pronounced wrinkles on the face and neck.
ellacor
ellacor is the first and only FDA-cleared treatment to nonsurgically remove excess skin. This micro-coring technology removes thousands of tiny columns of excess skin to improve appearance of moderate and severe wrinkles in the mid to lower face. Micro-coring with ellacor is the MOST effective treatment available for skin tightening.
From Weight Loss to Wow — Let’s Take the Next Step Together
If you’re concerned about facial changes after weight loss, schedule a consultation at Shea Aesthetic Clinic in East Tennessee. Our providers are aesthetic experts with over 75 years of combined experience and a reputation for grounding every patient relationship in integrity and kindness.
Book your appointment and discover how we can help you look and feel your best at every stage of your self-improvement journey.
