How Does Ozempic Weight Loss Affect Plastic Surgery? An Experienced West Palm Beach Plastic Surgeon Explains

A new phenomenon is capturing attention in plastic surgery. While requests for typical cosmetic procedures like an eyelid lift, facial plastic surgery, laser treatments, and other cosmetic procedures continue, there's an emerging trend among individuals who have experienced significant weight loss: they are seeking skin-tightening treatments in increasing numbers.

These patients are not achieving their transformation through traditional diets or bariatric surgery. Instead, they are turning to the power of medications like Ozempic, a breakthrough glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) drug making waves in the media and endorsed by celebrities and regular people.

In this blog from West Palm Beach plastic surgeon, Dr. Fredric M. Barr, M.D., F.A.C.S., you'll discover why the surge in skin-tightening procedures is captivating the public's attention and transforming lives after extreme Ozempic weight loss. Continue reading to learn more, then contact our plastic surgery office at (561) 833-4122 to schedule a consultation with our patient counselor.

At Palm Beach Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery, we’re committed to providing naturally beautiful results.

What are GLP-1 Medications?

A leading treatment for Type 2 Diabetes, Ozempic, has gained popularity for its ability to help patients lose weight. Using GLP-1 agonists, which mirror the body's natural hormone GLP-1, Ozempic regulates blood sugar and suppresses appetite.

When combined with a healthy diet and exercise routine, these remarkable medications amplify the body's insulin response, resulting in significant weight loss. These GLP-1 medications offer a multitude of benefits, according to the Mayo Clinic. Research reveals that some drugs in these groups may lower the risk of heart disease, such as heart failure, stroke, and kidney disease.

These medications are also known as:

• Dulaglutide (Trulicity)
• Exenatide (Byetta)
• Exenatide extended-release (Bydureon BCise)
• Liraglutide (Victoza, Saxenda)
• Lixisenatide (Adlyxin)
• Semaglutide (Ozempic)
• Semaglutide (Rybelsus)

Ozempic's Effect on Plastic Surgery

With an increasing number of patients achieving massive weight loss and experiencing the accompanying problem of excess skin, more people now seek plastic surgery and skin-tightening procedures after reaching their goal weight. Ozempic results in dramatic weight loss of up to 100 pounds, and loose skin can make many people self-conscious about their bodies, leading them to consult plastic surgeons to mold it to their new figures.

According to Islander News, over 70% of adults in the United States are obese, which has created a staggering demand for GLP-1 medications, outpacing manufacturers' ability to produce them. Expectations are set for increasing demands as more supplies and more effective drugs with more convenient delivery systems hit the market.

Groundbreaking clinical trials have shown that these drugs have successfully led to a substantial reduction in body weight, surpassing an impressive 20% in numerous patients. However, these significant weight loss outcomes inevitably result in noticeable changes in facial and body aesthetics. Consequently, there is a rising trend of patients seeking rejuvenation treatments after completing their successful weight loss journeys with these cutting-edge medications.

What is "Ozempic Face?"

Semaglutide is part of a class of medications called incretin mimetics. Their purpose is to ensure that the pancreas secretes enough insulin in response to elevated blood glucose levels. Ozempic also acts as a long-lasting and effective glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist. This groundbreaking medication helps you feel fuller and significantly slows down gastric emptying. The result? You'll naturally consume fewer calories, paving the way for effective weight management.

“Ozempic face” describes the common side effects experienced with semaglutide (the generic name for Ozempic), which can include sagging and aging of the facial skin. To address these concerns, a doctor might suggest lifestyle changes and the use of facial fillers, as well as facelifts as treatment options.

Although safe to ingest with a doctor's approval, Ozempic can instigate quick weight loss that is often more noticeable on the face.

Facial fat plays a pivotal role in protecting our face and maintaining its youthful appearance and flexibility. When we lose weight, significant changes can occur in our skin, causing it to stretch out, losing collagen and volume and show signs of dermatological changes. That’s because the fat that helps to cushion our skin is no longer present. Additionally, after experiencing rapid weight loss, the skin of our face may lose its ability to retract properly, due to the reduction in levels of elastin and collagen, which are vital for maintaining the structural integrity of the skin.

Consequently, some people who take Ozempic may report the following facial symptoms:

• Increased signs of aging, such as more lines and wrinkles
• Loss of fat, which can lead the skin to become loose and sag
• A hollowed-out appearance
• Lipodystrophy, a condition that affects how the body accumulates and stores fat

These patients should consider facial injectables and mini lifts with laser tratments to address their new concerns.

Others may opt for a more complete alternative and undergo a full face and neck lift surgery. Statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) revealed a 22% increase in non-surgical skin-tightening procedures in 2022 and an 8% increase in facelift surgeries.

How Does Plastic Surgery Help Ozempic Patients?

Due to significant weight loss of up to one hundred pounds or more, many patients turn to plastic surgery to address loose skin on their abdomen, thighs, and other areas that create self-consciousness and embarrassment. While thrilled to have achieved their weight loss goals, many feel frustrated that flabby skin is an unwanted consequence. Plastic surgery can finish their transformation with skin-tightening procedures.

Liposuction

Liposuction can correct a myriad of problems. This widely used procedure eliminates stubborn fat deposits in the abdomen, thighs and helps create a more aesthetically pleasing physique by targeting these trouble areas. For individuals who have achieved their weight loss goals through Ozempic, liposuction can further refine their results and give them their desired body shape.

Tummy Tuck

The tummy tuck procedure begins with a precise incision from hip to hip, just above the pubic hair. The length of the incision will be adjusted according to the amount of excess skin and fat to be removed.

During the procedure, a cosmetic surgeon carefully lifts the skin and soft tissue off the abdominal muscles, extending up to the ribs. Next, they skillfully cut the skin around the belly button and maintain its attachment to the underlying muscles. Stitches tighten and reshape the abdominal muscles, resulting in a narrower waist and a flatter stomach.

Afterward, the skin is stretched back down and any excess tissue is meticulously removed. Lastly, a new opening is created for the belly button. In cases where there isn't sufficient skin above the belly button, a small vertical incision will be made just above the pubic hair where the belly button used to be.

Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)

An arm lift is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the upper arms, resulting in a more contoured and youthful appearance.

During an arm lift, Palm Beach plastic surgeons make incisions along the inside or back of the upper arm, strategically placing them to minimize visible scarring. He then removes the excess skin and fat, tightens the underlying tissues, and sutures the incisions for optimal results. The procedure can be performed under local anesthesia, and the recovery period typically involves minimal discomfort and downtime.

Dr. Barr's expertise and attention to detail ensure that each arm lift procedure is tailored to the patient's specific needs and desired outcome. By utilizing advanced surgical techniques, he strives to achieve natural-looking results and help patients regain confidence in the appearance of their arms.

Am I A Good Candidate for Plastic Surgery If I've Taken Ozempic?

Timing is crucial when considering plastic surgery after using GLP-1 agonists. For optimal results, wait a minimum of six months after beginning GLP-1 agonist therapy before proceeding with any elective surgeries. This waiting period allows for an evaluation of the medication's effectiveness and ensures that your weight loss has stabilized before you undergo additional procedures. 

We recommend stopping the use of these medications, at least one month prior to any surgery.

What Is The Recovery Time for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery?

The recovery period depends on many variables, including the number of procedures required to restore natural beauty and the patient’s health. While scarring may occur, plastic surgeons strive to minimize visible incisions. It’s best to ask your plastic surgery team what to expect after you have had a consultation and a full evaluation from a Board-certified plastic surgeon.

What Does the Future Hold for Plastic Surgery Because of Ozempic?

The landscape of plastic surgery is evolving with the rise in popularity of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic for weight management. Plastic surgeons have noticed this shift and now shape the outcomes these medications facilitate.

As GLP-1 medications continue to revolutionize weight loss, plastic surgery continues to adapt. The demand for board-certified plastic surgeons who can enhance and refine the weight loss journey, initiated by prescribed medications like Ozempic, will continue to increase.

Palm Beach Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Provides Remarkable Patient Care and Exceptional Results for Ozempic Patients

Have you achieved and maintained your weight loss goals with Ozempic for at least six months? Are you seeking body contouring to complete your transformation? If you have been searching for the "best plastic surgeons in Palm Beach County," look no further than Palm Beach Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery. Our fellowship-trained plastic surgeon, Dr. Fredric M. Barr, M.D., F.A.C.S., is a leader in cosmetic surgery and reconstructive surgery, known as "the Physician that other Physicians consult." He's an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery and the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Dr. Barr takes great pride in his work and his artistic capabilities. He prioritizes patient safety, always putting patient  health first. His ability to listen and provide personalized care has guided him in his over three decades of practice in the Palm Beaches.

Our plastic surgery support staff in West Palm Beach includes a patient counselor who will listen to your concerns during a consultation to help you choose the right procedures for your body to obtain the exquisite results you desire. To schedule a consultation with our patient counselor, call (561) 833-4122 or complete our online form.