For many, achieving a significant weight loss of 30 pounds is a triumph, a testament to dedication and hard work. However, this accomplishment can sometimes bring unexpected changes to the face. This article explores the reasons behind these changes, particularly focusing on the phenomenon dubbed "Ozempic Face," and offers strategies to manage and address them.
The "Ozempic Face" Phenomenon
The term "Ozempic Face" was coined by NY dermatologist Dr. Paul Frank, who observed his patients on weight-loss medications complaining about their gaunt, sagging faces. While the phrase is linked to Ozempic, a drug developed to treat diabetes, the real cause is significant weight loss, especially when it occurs rapidly. It's a misnomer to attribute these changes solely to Ozempic, as similar facial changes can occur with any method of rapid or substantial weight loss.
The Science Behind Facial Changes
Weight loss affects the entire body, including the face. Fat pads in the face provide structure and volume, contributing to a youthful appearance. When weight loss occurs, these fat pads shrink, leading to:
- Loss of Volume: Hollowness around the eyes, cheeks, and temples becomes more pronounced.
- Increased Sagging: The skin loses its underlying support, resulting in sagging and a more aged appearance.
- More Defined Facial Traits: As you shed pounds, the fat stored in facial areas decreases, revealing more defined facial traits.
These changes are not unique to medication-induced weight loss; they occur with normal aging as well, as facial fat pads naturally migrate or move down causing hollowing along the cheeks, deep under-eye hollows, and the formation of the “jowls.” There are three main factors that contribute to facial aging: facial fat loss, bone resorption, and changes in skin.
Factors Influencing Facial Changes
Several factors can influence the extent of facial changes after weight loss:
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- Age: Older individuals tend to have less skin elasticity due to decreased collagen production. As we age, we stop producing as much collagen as we did in our youth. Collagen is a naturally occurring protein that keeps our skin firm and elastic. The less we have, the more we sag, with or without weight loss.
- Amount of Weight Loss: Losing a significant amount of weight, such as 30 pounds or more, is more likely to cause noticeable facial changes compared to losing a smaller amount.
- Speed of Weight Loss: Rapid weight loss doesn't give the skin enough time to adjust, potentially leading to sagging.
- Lifestyle Factors: Sun damage and smoking can reduce skin elasticity, making facial changes more prominent.
- Genetics: Genetics also influence how fat is distributed, impacting facial appearance.
Strategies to Mitigate Facial Changes
While some facial changes may be inevitable, several strategies can help minimize their impact:
- Gradual Weight Loss: Aim for a slow and steady weight loss of 1-2 pounds per week to give the skin more time to adjust.
- Adequate Nutrition: Work with a healthcare provider to ensure adequate nutrition, including a multivitamin with iron and Vitamin D. Increase protein intake to help maintain lean body mass.
- Skin Hydration: Use medical-grade skincare products to promote collagen production, improve skin elasticity, and reduce wrinkles. Moisturizers with hyaluronic acid and retinoids can be beneficial.
- Facial Exercises and Massage: Like everywhere else on your body, the muscles of your face weaken as you age, which affects the appearance of your skin. However, facial exercises-especially for your cheeks and jawline-and facial massage can improve these muscles and help you regain some firmness in your face, jowls, and neck.
- Supplements: Supplements that improve sagging skin are hyaluronic acid, vitamin A/retinol, vitamins C, D, and E, and resveratrol.
- Skincare: Skincare includes removing makeup and washing your face, using a gentle toner, keeping your skin moisturized, and wearing sunscreen.
Medical and Cosmetic Interventions
For more pronounced facial volume loss, consider these options:
- Dermal Fillers: Dermal fillers replace lost volume and create a fuller, more youthful face. Several FDA-approved fillers can be injected into areas like the cheeks, chin, temples, and under-eye area. The ideal time to address facial volume loss is when the patient has achieved their weight loss target.
- Skin-Tightening Treatments: Procedures like laser treatments or microchanneling can stimulate collagen and elastin production, leading to firmer skin.
- Cosmetic Surgery: In some cases, a surgical facelift may be necessary to remove excess skin and restore a more youthful appearance. A surgical facelift procedure will bring your facial muscles and fat pads back to their original spot while removing excess loose skin. This is the best and most effective option for people who have lost more than 100 pounds or are older.
The Role of Weight Loss Medications
The rise of prescription drugs such as GLP-1 agonists (Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus, Trulicity, Victoza, and Saxenda; semaglutide, dulaglutide, liraglutide) and combination GIP/GLP-1 agonists (Mounjaro and Zepbound; tirzepatide) has significantly affected the diet industry and revolutionized the treatment of obesity and diabetes. Originally designed as a treatment for diabetes, Ozempic works by mimicking the action of the GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) hormone, which regulates blood sugar levels and slows down digestion, leading to reduced appetite and, ultimately, weight loss. GLP-1 (incretin hormone) is produced by the gut and increases insulin production from the pancreas only when blood sugar levels are elevated. Ozempic is one of several drugs that have gained immense popularity for their off-label use in weight loss. FDA approved for weight loss: Wegovy (weekly injection semaglutide) and Saxenda (daily injection liraglutide) are the only GLP-1 medications FDA approved for weight loss.
These medications can be incredibly effective for weight loss, but it's important to be aware of potential side effects, including facial changes. Providers prescribing these medications should counsel patients on managing their weight loss and addressing any concerns.
Benefits of Weight Loss
Despite the potential for facial changes, it's crucial to remember the numerous health benefits of weight loss. Shedding just 5% of your body weight, as advised by the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention), can decrease your risk for chronic diseases and lead to better overall health.
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According to a study by Obesity Reviews, people try to lose weight for the following reasons:
- To look better
- For better health and less diseases
- To have a better wellbeing
- To stay fit and gain the ability to train more
- For higher self-esteem with a fit body
- Because they were advised by a professional to lose weight
- To satisfy their partner
- For a better social life with no bullying
- Because a fit body checks on professional requirements
- Due to the insistence of their families
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