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Ozempic Face & Weight Loss: Causes, Prevention & Treatment Options

Ozempic Face From Weight Loss? Causes, Prevention & Treatment

By New Jersey Bariatric Center Staff | January 29, 2025

"Ozempic face" has become a popular term in New Jersey and beyond as more people use medications like OzempicĀ® and WegovyĀ® for weight management. It describes facial changes some patients experience during rapid weight loss from weight loss medications. The popular term now associated with weight loss can be misleading, as OzempicĀ® is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes, not weight loss.Ā  However, its active ingredient semaglutide is also used in WegovyĀ®, which is FDA-approved for weight loss. No matter which weight loss medication our patients at New Jersey Bariatric CenterĀ® use for weight management, they want to understand why weight loss causes ozempic face and how to handle it.

What Causes "Ozempic Face" from Weight Loss

Ozempic Face is caused by the rapid rate of weight loss that can occur while taking prescription weight loss medications such as WegovyĀ®, which make you feel full longer and slow down digestion causing you to eat less. Given the effectiveness of these medications, weight loss often happens quickly throughout the body, including the face. The loss of facial fat, combined with changes in skin proteins like collagen and elastin, leads to sagging skin and ozempic face.

Some patients with rapid weight loss from prescription weight loss medication may notice increased fine lines and wrinkles. Additional changes can include loss of facial volume and sunken, flattened facial features or changes in facial tissue distribution.  

RELATED: WegovyĀ®, SaxendaĀ® or QsymiaĀ®: Which Prescription Weight Loss Medication is Best for Me?

Minimizing Facial Changes While Losing Weight

While facial changes from weight loss medications can occur, there are several ways to minimize their impact. At New Jersey Bariatric CenterĀ® we take a proactive approach by monitoring your weight loss rate and adjusting your medication dosage. Aiming for a loss of 1-2 pounds per week can allow your skin to adjust more gradually. Further, our team of registered dietitians helps our patients maintain proper hydration (at least 64 oz of water daily) and nutrition, with emphasis on protein-rich foods. Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats can promote skin health. Regular check-ins with your doctor allow us to adjust your treatment plan based on your response and concerns.

Treatment Options for "Ozempic Face"

If you're already experiencing facial sagging and loss of volume, several treatment options are available. Our weight loss team can help optimize your weight loss rate and nutrition plan to prevent further changes. For aesthetic concerns, we recommend speaking with a dermatologist or plastic surgeon who offers specialized facial treatments.

When to Seek Help

Schedule a consultation if you:

  • Notice significant facial volume loss
  • Experience accelerated aging signs - fine lines and wrinkles
  • Feel concerned about facial changes
  • Want to proactively prevent issues

Frequently Asked Questions

1: How quickly can facial changes like "Ozempic Face" develop after starting weight loss medications?

A: Some patients may notice facial changes between 8-12 weeks after starting treatment on medications such as OzempicĀ® for diabetes and WegovyĀ® for weight loss, correlating with significant weight loss.

2: Is "Ozempic Face" permanent?

A: By proactively addressing changes with your doctor and exploring restorative options, you may be able to minimize the impact and find treatment that can restore facial volume. 

3: Does everyone on OzempicĀ® and WegovyĀ® experience facial changes?

A: Some patients report noticeable facial changes while others experience no changes. Factors like age, starting weight, and genetics play significant roles in determining whether facial changes like ozempic face may occur.

4: Can I prevent "Ozempic Face" entirely?

A: While complete prevention of ozempic face may not be possible, early intervention and proper planning may significantly minimize effects.

For questions, call 908-481-1270

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