Rise in cosmetic surgery linked to Ozempic use

Cosmetic surgeons report more patients seeking procedures due to weight loss from Ozempic and similar drugs.

Ozempic use leads to increase in cosmetic surgery demand

Recent trends show a rise in cosmetic surgery requests linked to weight loss from medications like Ozempic. Dermatologist Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank noted an increase in patients experiencing sagging skin and facial hollowing after significant weight loss. This phenomenon, dubbed 'Ozempic face,' has become common among individuals using GLP-1 drugs for weight management. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reported that a significant number of its members’ patients were considering cosmetic procedures, with many already undergoing treatments. With the weight loss drugs becoming popular, the demand for facelifts and fillers has surged, as patients increasingly seek ways to regain their facial volume and appearance, especially after rapid weight loss.

The rise of Ozempic and similar medications has had a profound impact on aesthetic surgery, introducing a new demographic of patients. This trend raises questions about the long-term implications of quick weight loss through medication. While many patients find themselves happier with their weight, the side effects like sagging skin have turned them to cosmetic solutions. As Dr. Frank suggests, the nature of beauty standards is shifting. It's no longer just about achieving a desired number on the scale; it’s about maintenance of appearance post-weight loss. The potential for a cycle of reliance on cosmetic surgery as an afterthought to medical weight loss could transform the field significantly, impacting how healthcare providers approach weight management and aesthetic concerns.

Highlights

As the landscape of weight management evolves, so too does the conversation around beauty and self-image.