Celebrities like Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank are sounding the alarm on a growing trend in cosmetic surgery after weight loss, thanks to medications like Ozempic. This phenomenon has become so widespread that it’s earned its own name – “Ozempic face.” As Americans continue to lose weight with GLP-1 drugs, dermatologists and plastic surgeons are noticing an alarming increase in patients requiring facelifts, dermal fillers, and other cosmetic procedures.
Dr. Frank, a leading expert on the subject, says that as patients lose 10-plus pounds, they often experience a loss of facial volume, resulting in a deflated look. To combat this, his patients are turning to injectable dermal fillers, facelifts, and fat transfers. While some see these procedures as a necessity, others view them as an aesthetic imperative.
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) reports that 2 in 5 members’ GLP-1 patients are considering cosmetic surgery, while 1 in 5 have already undergone it. One patient, Kimberly Bongiorno, underwent a deep plane facelift and neck lift after losing weight with Ozempic, resulting in a significant improvement in her appearance.
However, the trend raises questions about the long-term effects of GLP-1 medications on cosmetic medicine. As patients lose weight rapidly, they may experience muscle loss and other side effects that can lead to further procedures. The ASPS notes that “Ozempic makeover” – a suite of procedures including tummy tucks, breast lifts, and arm, thigh, and buttock lifts – is becoming increasingly popular.
While some welcome the increased options for cosmetic surgery, others are concerned about the potential risks associated with GLP-1 medications. As one patient noted, “Skin is heavy and uncomfortable… It wasn’t something I did to go out there and be a supermodel. It was just to be comfortable.”
The long-term effect of GLP-1 medications on cosmetic medicine remains unclear, but experts agree that patients need comprehensive care – including lifestyle changes and regular check-ins with healthcare providers. As Dr. Steven Williams notes, “We don’t want these patients to be on these medications for a lifetime… We want it to be a temporary bridge to a healthier lifestyle.”
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/07/30/style/ozempic-face-cosmetic-surgery