If you have been on social media or following health news, you might have heard the term Ozempic Face. As a weight loss specialist, I have provided care to people on all GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide(Wegovy and Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Yurpeak). 

Today, I would like to address something many of my patients ask about. This phenomenon has received significant media attention, and as someone who sees these changes firsthand in my clinical practice, I want to share what the science tells us and what my patients experience when using these medications. 

First off, Ozempic, also known by its generic name semaglutide, is a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It is approved for type 2 diabetes. Wegovy (semaglutide) is approved for weight management. 

So, what exactly is Ozempic face?

Patients on GLP-1-like medications (Mounjaro, Wegovy and Ozempic) often notice facial changes about 3-4 months into their treatment. People experience accelerated facial fat loss combined with changes in skin elasticity. These changes often include facial volume loss and a change in facial appearance, often with reduced fullness and skin laxity. This differs from person to person based on their rate of weight loss.

What exactly happens?

Mounjaro, Wegovy, and Ozempic-like medications change how your body processes hunger signals. These medications target receptors in your brain’s hypothalamus, specifically reducing hunger hormone signalling while enhancing satiety pathways. 

I have observed that patients typically reduce their caloric intake by 20-30% without the intense hunger previously experienced. This leads to consistent weight loss of about 1-2% of body weight monthly in most responders. 

Now, this isn’t unique to Ozempic. It is a well-known phenomenon in the medical world called facial lipoatrophy, which is a natural result of fat loss.

What is the medical reason for the Ozempic face?

 As we lose weight, especially rapidly, subcutaneous fat, which gives our face its youthful contour and softness, diminishes. And since the face is one of the first areas where fat loss is noticeable, the effect can appear more dramatic. 

I explain to my patients that the facial fat exists in distinct parts, including the buccal fat pad, the malar fat pads, and the temporal regions. When we lose this fat rapidly, the skin may not adapt quickly enough to the structural change, leading to what we call Ozempic Face. 

There is also a loss of collagen and elastin with ageing, and when rapid weight loss is layered on top of that, it may accentuate visible changes in skin texture or firmness.  

So, to be clear, Ozempic face is not a side effect of the drug itself, but rather a natural consequence of significant fat loss, especially in the face. 

How can we prevent Ozempic face?

• Have regular reviews with your doctor and dietitian. 
• Aim for slow and steady weight loss of about 0.5-1 kg or 1-2 pounds per week. This approach allows the skin to adjust more naturally, reducing the risk of sagging and other facial changes. 
• Drink adequate water daily to maintain skin elasticity. 
• Consume a protein-rich diet to support collagen production and muscle mass.  
• Ensure sufficient intake of vitamins and minerals that support skin health, such as vitamin C and E. 
• Always consult with your doctor before starting any supplements or medications. 
  
  

Remember that these medications offer significant health benefits. I have seen patients reverse type 2 diabetes, improve sleep apnoea, and reduce cardiovascular risk factors. 

If you do notice changes in your face, seek urgent medical help from your doctor.