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Face Drooping After Ozempic? Causes and Treatments Explained
Ozempic has gained attention as an effective medication for weight loss and diabetes management. However, some individuals have noticed an unintended consequence – facial drooping. This phenomenon, often referred to as “Ozempic Face,” occurs when rapid weight loss leads to a loss of facial volume and skin elasticity. But is Ozempic facial drooping permanent? And how can it be prevented or treated? Let’s dive into the causes and solutions.
What is Facial Drooping?
Ozempic-induced facial drooping occurs when rapid weight loss leads to a reduction in the fat pads that support the skin’s structure. With less underlying support, the skin can appear loose, sagging, or sunken. Additionally, extreme weight fluctuations can weaken the connective tissues in the face, leading to a loss of skin elasticity. This combination of factors contributes to a more aged and gaunt appearance, particularly in those who lose significant amounts of weight in a short period.
“One of the biggest misconceptions about Ozempic-related facial changes is that they’re purely about fat loss,” said Dr. Rukmini Rednam, a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon and expert in aesthetic and reconstructive facial procedures.
“In reality, rapid weight loss can also affect collagen and elastin production, making the skin less resilient. This is why some patients not only see sagging but also notice that their skin feels thinner or more fragile over time.”
Signs You Are Experiencing Facial Drooping
- Deepening of nasolabial folds (lines from the nose to the mouth)
- Hollowed under-eye area and a more tired appearance
- Loss of facial fullness, particularly in the cheeks and temples
- Overall facial laxity and reduced skin elasticity
- Sagging jawline or jowls
How to Prevent Ozempic Facial Side Effects
While facial changes from Ozempic are largely due to weight loss, there are ways to minimize or slow down facial drooping:
- Gradual Weight Loss: Avoid extreme or rapid weight loss to allow your skin to adjust.
- Hydration & Nutrition: Maintain a diet rich in collagen-boosting foods, such as protein, healthy fats, and vitamin C.
- Skin Care Regimen: Use medical-grade skincare products with retinol, hyaluronic acid, and peptides to enhance skin elasticity.
- Non-Surgical Skin Tightening: Consider treatments like radiofrequency or ultrasound therapy to promote collagen production.
Ways to Restore Facial Volume After Taking Ozempic
If facial drooping has already occurred, there are several effective surgical and non-surgical treatment options to restore lost volume and improve skin tightness.
Non-Surgical Treatments for Facial Drooping
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers are injectable facial treatments that replenish lost volume in areas such as the cheeks, temples, and jawline. Hyaluronic acid-based fillers like Juvéderm® and Restylane® can smooth out wrinkles and provide a more youthful contour. The procedure is quick, with minimal downtime, and results can last several months to over a year.
Sculptra® Aesthetic
Sculptra® is a poly-L-lactic acid injectable that stimulates the body’s natural collagen production. It’s particularly effective for restoring facial volume and improving skin texture over time. Multiple sessions may be required, with results appearing gradually and lasting up to two years.
Profound® RF Skin Tightening
Profound® RF is a radiofrequency microneedling treatment that targets sagging skin by stimulating the production of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid. This procedure can significantly improve skin tightness and elasticity, offering a non-surgical solution to facial drooping. It’s effective for all skin types and has FDA clearance for treating both the face and body.
Botox® and Dysport®
Neuromodulators like Botox® and Dysport® are used to relax facial muscles that contribute to wrinkles and fine lines. While they don’t add volume, they can enhance the overall rejuvenation effect when combined with other treatments. These injections are quick, with minimal discomfort and no downtime.
Helix Laser Treatments by Cartessa
The Helix laser is our next-generation skin rejuvenation treatment, designed to improve skin texture, tone, and laxity with minimal downtime. Combining advanced resurfacing and collagen-stimulating technology, it smooths fine lines, refines pores, and restores a firmer, more youthful appearance.
“When facial drooping is more severe, relying solely on fillers can lead to an overfilled or unnatural look,” explained Dr. Rednam.
“In these cases, a strategic approach that combines structural lifting—such as a deep-plane facelift or fat grafting—with skin-tightening treatments will create results that look and feel more natural.”
Surgical Treatments for Facial Drooping
Facelift Surgery
Facelift surgery, or rhytidectomy, is designed to reduce sagging skin, deep creases, and jowls by tightening underlying tissues and removing excess skin. This procedure provides a more youthful and refreshed facial appearance.
Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
Blepharoplasty targets drooping upper or lower eyelids, as well as bags and puffiness under the eyes. By removing excess skin and fat, this surgery enhances the eye area’s appearance, making it look more alert and youthful. Learn more
Fat Transfer
Fat transfer involves moving fat from one part of the body to the face to restore lost volume and improve contour. This technique is beneficial for patients experiencing facial drooping due to volume loss, providing natural and long-lasting results.
Brow Lift
A brow lift elevates a sagging brow, reducing forehead wrinkles and improving frown lines. This procedure can correct a heavy or drooping brow that contributes to an aged or tired appearance.
Is Facial Drooping Permanent?
Ozempic facial drooping is not necessarily permanent. While some changes may improve over time, treatments like facial volume restoration and skin tightening can significantly reverse the effects. Consulting a plastic surgeon near me or a facelift surgeon can help determine the best approach based on your specific needs.
Take Action to Restore Your Youthful Appearance
My Houston Surgeons is home to a team of board-certified experts specializing in both surgical and non-surgical facial rejuvenation treatments. With years of experience and access to the most advanced techniques, they provide customized solutions tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
If you’re experiencing facial drooping after Ozempic, there are plenty of options to restore your facial contour. Whether you prefer non-surgical treatments for facial drooping or surgical treatments for facial drooping, a personalized approach can help you look and feel your best.
Schedule a virtual or in-person consultation today to explore your options for facial rejuvenation!
