In recent years, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, such as Ozempic (semaglutide), have become widely discussed in relation to weight management. These medications were originally developed for type 2 diabetes, but have gained attention for their role in significant weight loss in some patients under the care of their general practitioner or endocrinologist.
As plastic surgeons, we do not prescribe or manage weight loss medications. Decisions regarding the use of GLP-1 drugs should be made in consultation with a general practitioner or appropriate medical specialist. However, we are seeing more patients presenting with questions or concerns about the physical changes that can arise after rapid weight loss with medications like Ozempic. This rapid weight loss has led to unforeseen consequences, particularly in the realm of cosmetic surgery.
Common Concerns After GLP-1 Use
- Changes in Facial Appearance: Rapid weight loss may lead to loss of facial fat volume, sometimes referred to in the media as “Ozempic face.” This refers to the loss of facial fat, resulting in an unexpectedly thin or prematurely aged appearance. Unlike the gradual facial changes associated with natural aging, “Ozempic face” manifests more abruptly, often prompting individuals to seek advice about facial rejuvenation options.
- Skin Redundancy and Laxity: When weight loss occurs quickly, the skin does not always retract fully. This can leave excess skin in areas such as the arms, abdomen, or thighs. Patients may request information about procedures like abdominoplasty or body lifts to address these changes.
- Broader Aesthetic Preferences: Weight loss can alter body proportions, and some patients seek assessment regarding balance, contour, or volume redistribution. Importantly, suitability for any procedure requires an in-person consultation, careful examination, and a discussion of risks and limitations.
Patient Safety and Surgical Planning
For patients who have used GLP-1 medications and are considering surgery, there are additional medical considerations:
- Anaesthetic safety: GLP-1 medications can delay gastric emptying, which may increase anaesthetic risks such as aspiration. Anaesthetists usually recommend pausing these medications for a specified period before surgery to improve safety.
- Timing: It is advisable to reach a stable weight before undergoing major cosmetic or reconstructive procedures. This helps ensure more predictable outcomes and may reduce the need for revisional surgery.
- Expectations: Results vary. Some patients may require more than one procedure to address skin or contour changes, while others may achieve their goals with non-surgical options.
The Role of Your GP
If you are considering, or already using, a medication such as Ozempic for weight management, your GP is the best person to advise you on suitability, dosing, and monitoring. Plastic surgeons do not prescribe these medications but can provide advice on how associated physical changes may be addressed from a surgical perspective.
Final Thoughts
The increasing use of GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic highlights the connection between weight management and aesthetic concerns. While these medications may play an important role in medical care, they can also create physical changes that lead individuals to seek advice from plastic surgeons.
Our role is to provide balanced information, discuss potential surgical and non-surgical options, and ensure patients understand both the benefits and risks of any procedure. Decisions about weight loss medications, however, must always remain under the guidance of a GP or relevant specialist. The “Ozempic effect” encapsulates the complex interplay between pharmaceutical weight loss and the rates of certain cosmetic surgery procedures in Australia. While GLP-1 medications offer effective solutions for weight management, they also present new challenges in maintaining volume in areas that patients prefer. By staying informed and adopting a holistic approach, Australians can navigate this evolving landscape, achieving both their health and aesthetic goals.
