Obesity and excess weight affect billions of people worldwide, contributing to serious conditions and impacting self-confidence. For many, shedding some extra pounds is a journey toward better well-being. Thanks to advancements in medicine and technology, weight loss techniques and drugs have become more effective and accessible. However, weight loss can bring unexpected changes; one of the most talked-about is the “Ozempic face.” What exactly is it, and why does it happen?
Ozempic Face Explained
“Ozempic face” is not a medical term but rather a phrase used to describe certain changes in facial appearance that can occur after weight loss. While the name suggests a direct link to Ozempic, the phenomenon is not exclusive to those taking the drug.
Ozempic (semaglutide) is a prescription medication for managing type 2 diabetes that has also gained widespread attention for its weight loss benefits. It regulates blood sugar levels and suppresses appetite, which people with diabetes and obesity often struggle with. Now, rapid weight loss, in general — whether from Ozempic, other weight loss drugs, or even diet and exercise — can lead to changes in the face.
Fat loss occurs all over the body, including the face, which can result in noticeable differences in facial structure. Facial fat provides cushioning, maintains skin elasticity, and contributes to overall facial aesthetics. When you lose fat, your face may look thinner or sagging. You also reduce the levels of elastin and collagen in the skin, hindering its ability to retract and adapt to the new contours of the face.
Signs You Might Have Ozempic Face
An Ozempic face, though misleading as a phrase, collectively refers to the following facial changes:
- More wrinkles
- Sunken eyes
- Sagging skin around the jaw and neck
- Smaller or bigger lips, cheeks, and chin
- Abnormal distribution of facial fat
- A general hollowed-out appearance
The above effects of weight loss can be discouraging, and the term further stigmatizes people grappling with weight and health issues.
How To Prevent Ozempic Face: Tips and Tricks
Having “Ozempic face” should not diminish the pride and joy of achieving a healthy weight. It is possible to prioritize your well-being without sacrificing your facial aesthetics. If you are on Ozempic or any other weight loss methods, the facial side effects are not preventable, but you can manage them through the following practices.
Hydrate
Water helps keep the skin plump, reducing sagging or the emergence of fine lines that can become more visible after fat loss. Additionally, staying hydrated supports collagen production, which works on skin firmness. Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day, and incorporate hydrating foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges into your diet.
Consume Adequate Calories
While Ozempic and similar medications may reduce appetite, you must still get enough calories for muscle mass. Extreme caloric restriction can result in muscle loss and skin laxity, making facial changes more prominent. Focus on a diet with healthy fats, proteins, and complex carbohydrates to give your body the nutrients it needs.
Improve Protein Intake
When losing weight, consuming enough protein can control fat loss in the face while promoting collagen and elastin production — two key components for firm and youthful-looking skin. Good protein sources include eggs, lean meats, fish, dairy, legumes, tofu, quinoa, and other plant-based proteins.
Exercise
Regular exercise, particularly strength training, helps preserve muscle tone and definition. While you cannot directly target facial fat, resistance training and full-body workouts support overall muscle retention. You can also try facial exercises to stimulate your facial muscles and boost circulation.
Adjust or Change Medication
If applicable, speak with your healthcare provider about adjusting your dosage. A lower dose may slow down weight loss, allowing your skin to adapt more gradually. In some cases, switching to medicines with a milder effect on appetite suppression may be an option.
Can Ozempic Face Be Reversed? Understanding Your Options
Gaining weight can bring back some facial volume and definition. However, it is not the only way to reverse Ozempic face. Restoring facial volume naturally requires a commitment to a balanced diet, a proper skincare routine, and healthy sleeping habits. Avoiding smoking is also crucial, as it accelerates skin aging.
For those seeking additional solutions to Ozempic face, several non-invasive cosmetic treatments can help.
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers like hyaluronic acid-based injections can restore volume in your cheeks, temples, and other areas affected by weight loss. These fillers provide immediate results, giving the face a plumper appearance. Depending on the type of filler used, the effects typically last between six months and five years.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Facial
A PRP facial, sometimes called a “vampire facial,” uses your own blood’s platelets to stimulate collagen production and skin regeneration. This treatment can improve skin elasticity and achieve a full look over time. Since PRP enhances the body’s natural healing process, results develop gradually over a few weeks.
Microneedling
Microneedling is a skin-rejuvenation procedure that involves creating micro-injuries in the skin using tiny needles. It encourages collagen and elastin production, helping tighten the skin. It can also refine skin texture, reduce fine lines, and restore a youthful glow. Many combine microneedling with PRP for better results.
Learn More From RAREV
Losing weight has many benefits but can bring about changes, such as the Ozempic face. This phenomenon is a natural result of fat loss, and there are ways to manage its effects. Stay hydrated, adopt a healthy lifestyle, and consider exploring cosmetic treatments. At RAREV, an award-winning medical spa in Las Vegas, we specialize in treatments that support you in looking and feeling your best.
Our expert team welcomes everyone, from those struggling to embrace their new form after weight loss to those who simply want to enrich their natural beauty. We offer complimentary consultations to talk about your concerns and recommend the best services for your unique needs. Call (702) 560-7777 or contact us online. Let RAREV help you achieve the confidence and radiance you work hard for.
