Recently, a new term has taken the internet by storm: “Ozempic face”. The phrase has gained its reputation due to the rapid weight loss seen with the injectable medication Ozempic, licensed for the management of type 2 diabetes. However, the treatment has become extremely popular in the US due to its effective weight loss results for obesity. It has been cited in the media as having a myriad of other unexpected medical benefits in relation to PCOS and addiction. However, as with any prescription medication, caution should be exercised, as there are some unwelcome side effects to consider before using the treatment. One unwanted side effect of fat loss injections, which has come to the attention of clinicians practising Aesthetic Medicine, has been the dramatic loss of facial fat and sagging skin in some people who experience rapid weight loss.

Ozempic is not alone, as other fat-loss treatments and injections also carry their own set of risks when the patient experiences excessive or rapid weight loss. In this blog, we will delve into what “Ozempic face” exactly is, explore fat-loss injections and the treatment plans offered at ASC to help you look and feel your best.

What is “Ozempic Face”?

As we mentioned, Ozempic is a medication primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes and aid weight loss. It works by mimicking a hormone that helps regulate both blood sugar and appetite, leading to tangible results.

This is just one of several side effects the medication has, as it can also cause nausea, intestinal issues, and vomiting, in addition to more serious consequences. That’s why health professionals agree that while Ozempic has great efficacy when it comes to weight loss and managing diabetes, users must use it with extreme caution. Narrowing our focus on the “Ozempic face” specifically, let’s delve into it.  Patients more prone to having this problem are those who are obese and older patients with less skin elasticity.

• Loss of facial volume, which can result in hollowed cheeks and temples, making the face appear older and more tired.
• Sagging skin, caused by the skin not being able to bounce back quickly enough after substantial weight loss.
• Changes in skin texture, such as increased wrinkles or a rougher appearance.

Essentially, as people lose weight rapidly, the fat that once gave their faces youthful fullness decreases, leading to a gaunter or simply more aged look. These effects can be quite concerning for those who have successfully lost weight but now experience an unexpected and unwanted change in their facial looks. This may cause distress, insecurity, and disappointment.

Aside from the aesthetic aspect, we would like to emphasise that the benefits of Ozempic must be carefully weighed against its potential side effects; healthcare professionals should constantly and closely monitor patients to ensure their well-being, favour a more holistic approach, and mitigate risks to avoid aesthetic and health issues altogether.

The Downside of Other Fat-Loss Injections

Despite Ozempic being the most recognisable fat-loss injection in the aesthetic community and on social media, it’s not the only one that is drawing attention. Other types of injections are also making waves online and offline, gaining quick traction by promising fast weight loss; however, their potential side effects and downsides are not discussed enough. One prime example is lipotropic injections and HCG shots; both treatments are claimed to deliver exceptional results but don’t touch upon the possible health complications and unplanned aesthetic consequences they can lead to.

Lipotropic injections are designed to speed up the body’s fat-burning processes. However, imbalances in the body’s natural metabolic processes can cause adverse effects, such as nausea, digestive issues, and even nutrient deficiencies.

HCG shots, which use the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin, have been promoted for suppressing appetite and encouraging fat loss. Despite its benefits, improper use may result in issues ranging from hormonal imbalances to mood swings and unexpected changes in different body parts, including the face.

It’s then incredibly important that you find reliable information and professional opinions that will help you make informed decisions before committing to one of these treatments.

Aesthetic Solutions to Mitigate the Ozempic Face

If you find yourself facing the challenge of “Ozempic face” or similar unwanted side effects from fat-loss injections, you’ll be pleased to know that several solutions are available. These include a number of non-invasive treatments we offer, which we’ll explore later in more detail. In general, non-surgical treatments like our dermal fillers in Guernsey and Jersey and skin tightening procedures can improve the above-described symptoms of the Ozempic face.

• Dermal fillers are particularly useful for restoring lost volume in the cheeks and temples. By smoothing out wrinkles and fine lines, they provide a more youthful, fresher, and fuller appearance.
• Skin tightening procedures, such as radiofrequency treatments or ultrasound therapy, can also improve the elasticity of your skin, reducing sagging and promoting a firmer texture.

These options are extremely popular in the aesthetics world because they typically involve minimal downtime and can produce noticeable results rapidly enough. Of course, those seeking more dramatic changes can pursue surgical treatments for long-lasting solutions to mitigate the effects of face weight loss.

From Facelift to Fat Loss: Our Best Treatments

As professionals, we completely understand the complexities of dealing with changes in facial appearance due to weight loss. That’s why we offer several non-surgical treatments aimed at improving your skin’s appearance and the side effects of the Ozempic face, as well as valid solutions to lose weight without potentially dangerous fat-loss injections.

Non-Surgical Facelift Solutions

Our non-surgical facelift in Jersey and Guernsey has become an increasingly popular choice for those looking to rejuvenate their skin without surgery. Thanks to advanced techniques, we effectively treat sagging skin and volume loss using innovative procedures like Ultracel HIFU and volumising dermal fillers such as Lanluma. Ultracel tightens the skin using the latest HIFU technology, while Laluma adds volume to areas such as the cheeks and temples. This effective combination reverses shadows and restores youthful light reflection on the face.

Our range of treatments also includes the 8 Point Lift and Thermage FLX, targeting eight key areas to enhance facial features and tighten skin subtly. Each treatment plan is entirely tailored to your individual needs following a thorough consultation, so you benefit from personalised care and optimal results.

Fat Loss Treatments

Those who wish to lose weight effectively but don’t want to resort to fat-loss injections, which, as we learned, may cause unwanted side effects, trust us for exceptional solutions that will deliver excellent results.

Cristal Cryolipolysis, or fat freezing, is an advanced medical technology that cools targeted body fat to very low temperatures without harming surrounding tissue. Using eight control sensors, this treatment safely and effectively contours the body by triggering the natural death of fat cells. Our Cristal Cryolipolysis in Guernsey is perfect for those who wish to reduce localised fat pockets. With no surgery, anaesthesia, or impacting downtime, this non-invasive procedure offers long-lasting body sculpting benefits.

We also offer Lipocel Body Contouring HIFU System, a groundbreaking treatment that combines advanced contact cooling technology with high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) to break down fat cells effectively. The contact cooling feature reduces pain in the epidermal and nerve areas, allowing for higher energy delivery to the targeted areas without discomfort. With treatments completed in just 30 minutes and no need for anaesthesia, Lipocel is absolutely perfect for addressing diet-resistant fat in areas like the tummy, flanks, underarms, back, thighs, and knees.

Combat the Ozempic Face Effects with The Aesthetic Skin Clinic

If you’re concerned about sagging skin from weight loss or want to lose weight effectively and safely, book a consultation at our cosmetic clinic in Guernsey and Jersey. Our team of highly skilled medical professionals is here to plan and tailor the best treatments for your needs so that, together, we can achieve the best results. Contact us to discuss your options and start your journey towards a rejuvenated, confident you.