Cosmetic expert reveals how to spot the signs of ‘Ozempic face’ and avoid rapid aging signs

A cosmetic surgeon has revealed the telltale signs of ‘Ozempic face’ and shared practical ways to avoid premature aging while losing weight.

Dr. Ammar Mahmoud, board-certified cosmetic surgeon at NYC Alinea Lipo, said facial aging from rapid weight loss can strike anyone using GLP-1 medications. This issue affects patients who lose weight too rapidly when taking medications like Ozempic and Wegovy.

‘Ozempic face’ cases continue to rise as weight loss medication use grows. Most patients don’t anticipate these aging effects when starting treatment for weight management.

Sagging skin and loss of elasticity

“The most common sign is sagging skin, particularly around the cheeks and jawline,” Dr. Mahmoud said. “Without the fat that previously filled these areas, skin hangs loosely and creates an aged appearance that can add years to someone’s perceived age.”

Hollow cheeks and temples

“Fat loss in the cheeks and temples creates hollow areas that cast shadows on the face,” he noted. “This hollowing effect makes bone structure more prominent and ages the face significantly, giving that gaunt look many celebrities have experienced.”

More visible wrinkles and fine lines

Dr. Mahmoud pointed out that facial fat acts as natural filler. “When this fat diminishes rapidly, wrinkles and fine lines that were previously plumped up become more visible, especially around the eyes and mouth where expression lines form.”

Jowl formation and neck laxity

“The lower face often shows the most dramatic changes,” Dr. Mahmoud said. “Many patients notice jowl formation and loose skin under the chin and neck that wasn’t apparent before weight loss, creating an aged appearance that doesn’t match how they feel.”

The FDA approved medications like Zepbound (tirzepatide) in November 2023 for chronic weight management. Clinical trials showed participants lost an average of 18% of their body weight over 72 weeks.

The figures show that approximately 70% of American adults have obesity or are overweight. Weight loss benefits health greatly. Dr. Mahmoud stresses that the method matters just as much as the results.

“Rapid weight loss of more than 1-2 pounds per week doesn’t give skin enough time to adapt,” he explained. “Staying hydrated, consuming collagen-rich foods, and protecting skin from sun damage helps maintain facial volume during weight loss.”

Prevention strategies

Dr. Mahmoud recommended preventative approaches for those starting weight loss medications. “Prevention starts with gradual weight loss and a proper skincare routine with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and peptides,” he said. “Patients should aim for slower, sustained weight loss rather than rapid results.”

Treatment options

For those already experiencing Ozempic face, options range from non-invasive treatments to surgical interventions. “Non-surgical options include dermal fillers to restore lost volume, while more significant cases benefit from procedures that tighten loose skin,” Dr. Mahmoud added. “The key is addressing volume loss and skin laxity simultaneously.”

Facial aging related to weight loss medications affects patients of all ages. Cosmetic surgeons now regularly address these concerns in their practices as medication use grows.

“Weight loss should be celebrated, not feared,” Dr. Mahmoud said. “With the right approach to both losing weight and caring for your skin, you can achieve your health goals without premature aging.”