THE RISE OF ‘OZEMPIC FACE’

Editorial assistant Michelle Duffield investigates the side-effects of the trending weight-loss treatment

Weight-loss peptides such as Ozempic, primarily prescribed for the management of type 2 diabetes, have recently gained widespread attention, not only for their usage in controlling blood sugar levels, but also for their weight loss side effects. One of the most talked-about phenomena associated with its use is ‘Ozempic face’, a term coined to describe the noticeable facial changes some users experience. As weight loss peptides’ popularity rises, so does the search for effective treatments to counteract this side effect. So, we asked the experts to delve into the science behind Ozempic face, explore its impact on users, and discuss insights on the best approaches to mitigate its effects.

Mr Naveen Cavale, consultant plastic surgeon, provides a medical overview of the medication. “Ozempic is primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes and works by mimicking the effects of the naturally occurring hormone, GLP-1,” he explains. “The medication enhances insulin secretion in response to meals, helping to lower blood sugar levels and is typically administered as a weekly injection.”

Aesthetic doctor and founder of Dr Emma Clinics, Dr Emma Cunningham expands on its effects as the “increase in insulin production when blood sugar levels are high decreases the amount of sugar produced by the liver and slows down the rate at which food leaves the stomach, helping to control ones’ appetite, thus resulting in weight loss.”

With such successful weight loss stories, we have seen the drug skyrocket in popularity. “Its effectiveness has taken the media spotlight as users experience significant slimming results,” explains Kate Ross, founder, clinic director, and lead aesthetic nurse of The Clinic by La Ross. “However, this rapid loss of fat often results in a gaunt look.”

“People need to realise that, as we are ageing, we are losing fat and bone density,” adds Dr Amy Law, clinical director of Dr Amy Law Cosmetic Clinic and co-founder of Infinity Aesthetic Training. “It’s the fat in our faces that keep us looking young and youthful.”

Sinead McCann, nurse practitioner and non-medical prescriber at Sinead McCann Aesthetics, describes this look as showing “more pronounced under eye hollows and overall, more rapid ageing of the face”. “The jowl and jawline can really take the hit from the drastic and rapid weight loss,” she adds.

Ross elaborates on how the fat pads in the face act like scaffolding: “They come together like a jigsaw puzzle, supporting facial structures. When these fat pads diminish too quickly, the skin struggles to keep up, resulting in a hollowed, skeletal appearance. Rapid fat loss can also lead to muscle loss, exacerbating the issue.”

“While this may be a boost in body confidence for some, it comes with a price of dissatisfaction with one’s facial appearance” says McCann.

“This is something we should consider when counselling patients about weight loss treatments. Aesthetically, we can treat this loss in facial volume and laxity with treatments like dermal fillers, biostimulators, skin boosters, polynucleotides, and energy-based devices. These treatments may come with additional costs, time, and extra treatment implications, but for the right patient, they can be life changing. With a holistic approach, we can make sure it’s for all the right reasons.”

As weight-loss peptides continue to play a critical role in the management of type 2 diabetes, understanding and addressing their side effects becomes increasingly important. With expert guidance and a range of available treatments, patients can navigate these challenges and maintain both their health and appearance.