Ozempic is a medication primarily used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. The active ingredient in Ozempic is semaglutide, which belongs to a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 agonists).
Ozempic is administered once a week as an injection under the skin (subcutaneous injection). The medication helps lower blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes, thereby improving glycemic control.
By controlling blood sugar levels, Ozempic can help reduce the risk of long-term complications associated with diabetes, such as cardiovascular disease, kidney problems, and nerve damage. It is often prescribed as an adjunct to diet and exercise when lifestyle modifications alone are insufficient to achieve adequate blood sugar control.
Ozempic for Weight Loss
In addition to its primary use for diabetes management, Ozempic has also shown some potential benefits in weight management. Semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic, has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a prescription medication for chronic weight management.
Studies have shown that Ozempic and Wegovy, another injectable prescription medication for adults with obesity, can lead to significant weight loss when used in combination with lifestyle modifications. The medication helps reduce appetite and food cravings, leading to decreased caloric intake and improved weight control.
Ozempic and Wegovy are prescription medications and should only be used under the guidance and supervision of a healthcare professional. They are not intended for use in individuals with type 1 diabetes or for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis.
Ozempic Face
As with any medication, Ozempic has potential side effects, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and decreased appetite. One of these side effects include a phenomenon called “Ozempic face.”
Ozempic can cause rapid weight loss that is often more pronounced on the face. A loss of volume in the face can make facial features appear more pronounced and can reduce elasticity. People taking Ozempic may experience facial symptoms such as increased wrinkles and facial lines, a gaunt-like appearance, and loose skin.
How to Reduce Ozempic Face Side Effects
Treatment for “Ozempic face” will be dependent on the individual patient and their desired results, ranging anywhere from subtle enhancement to surgical interventions.
Collagen boosting, Sculptra, and skin procedures can help increase elasticity in the face. For patients who want a longer-lasting remedy, fat transfer and facelift surgery could be options. From a surgical standpoint, the deep plane facelift is the most effective with patients who have experienced major weight loss.
If you have any concerns about the effects of Ozempic on your skin or any other aspect of your health, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized guidance and address your specific questions or concerns.
Am I a Candidate for Facelift Surgery if I’m Taking Ozempic?
Being on Ozempic does not preclude patients from having fat grafting surgery or facelift surgery, but patients should wait about six months for their weight to stabilize before seeking something surgical.
What is a Deep Plane Facelift?
A deep plane facelift is a facial surgery where the SMAS, a layer of connective tissue underneath the facial skin, is lifted to tighten the cheekbones, jawline, and neck.
A deep plane facelift achieves tighter skin, defines facial features, and reduces elasticity in the neck. The deep plane facelift is the most effective type of facelift – yielding results that make patients look 12-15 years younger.
It also restores the cheek area back to its original position and improves the hollowness in the lower eyelid.