Ozempic face explained: What it is and how to address it

So, you've heard the whispers (or perhaps seen the headlines): “Ozempic face” is having a moment. From red carpet speculation to Reddit rabbit holes, this term has sparked curiosity and concern in equal measure. But what is Ozempic face, really? And more importantly, should you be worried about it?

Spoiler alert: if you’re losing weight quickly, your face might just be the first to RSVP to the slimming party.

While Juniper doesn’t prescribe Ozempic specifically, we do offer Wegovy, a similar GLP-1 weight loss medication that includes the same active ingredient, semaglutide, and it can come with comparable changes in facial appearance.

But before you start Googling “facial fillers near me” or stockpiling collagen supplements, let’s unpack what’s really going on behind this buzzword, how it relates to rapid weight loss, and how you can soften its effects while still reaping the rewards of your weight loss journey.

How does Ozempic lead to weight loss?

Ozempic (semaglutide) is part of a class of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists. In plain English, this means it mimics a naturally occurring hormone that helps regulate appetite and blood sugar levels.

Originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, this medication works by stimulating insulin production (when glucose is present), reducing glucagon secretion, and slowing down gastric emptying [1].

The result? You feel fuller, sooner, and for longer, which means fewer snack runs, smaller portions, and, over time, losing weight without feeling like you're in a constant hunger spiral.

Unlike crash diets that leave you hangry and Googling “how to stay full on lettuce,” Ozempic works behind the scenes to support sustainable weight loss. By reducing food intake and promoting a calorie deficit, the medication leads to a significant reduction in body weight, particularly in people with a higher body mass index (BMI) or weight-related medical conditions like insulin resistance [2].

In short: Ozempic helps your brain and gut play nicely, making it easier to stick to a healthy lifestyle without wrestling with constant cravings. That said, losing weight quickly with medications like these can have some cosmetic side effects. Among them are changes in how your face looks.

What does Ozempic do to the face?

Let’s cut to the chase: “Ozempic face” refers to changes in facial appearance that can occur after rapid weight loss, particularly the loss of facial fat.

As the number on the scale drops, so too can the volume in your cheeks, temples, and jawline [3]. The result? A slightly more gaunt appearance, sometimes marked by sagging skin, increased wrinkling, and an overall aged appearance (hence the term’s dramatic reputation) [4].

While this might sound a bit alarming, it’s not exclusive to Ozempic. Any significant weight loss, whether from calorie restriction, bariatric surgery, or other weight loss medications, can lead to facial fat loss.

The face, being one of the first places where subcutaneous fat tends to disappear, often shows the effects faster than the rest of the body. So, if you're experiencing a more hollow or tired look while taking Ozempic for weight loss, know that it’s not just you, and yes, there are ways to address it.

How is Ozempic face commonly treated?

Experiencing a more gaunt or aged appearance due to rapid weight loss can be concerning. Fortunately, there are several medical interventions available to restore facial volume and rejuvenate your appearance.

Facial fillers

One non-surgical option involves the use of dermal fillers, which are injectable substances designed to add volume beneath the skin. These fillers can effectively address areas of facial fat loss, such as the cheeks and under-eye regions, leading to a more youthful and plump appearance [4].

The procedure is minimally invasive, with results that can last several months to a couple of years, depending on the type of filler used. It's essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate filler and treatment plan for your specific needs. ​

Fat transfer

For a more permanent solution, some individuals opt for fat transfer procedures. This process involves harvesting fat from another part of your body (commonly the abdomen or thighs) through liposuction [4].

The extracted fat is then purified and meticulously injected into areas of the face that have experienced volume loss. Since this technique uses your body's own tissue, the risk of allergic reactions is minimised, and the results can be long-lasting. However, as with any surgical procedure, it's crucial to discuss potential risks and benefits with a board-certified surgeon.

How does Ozempic impact other parts of the body?

While the term Ozempic face tends to steal the spotlight, the effects of rapid weight loss from GLP-1 medications like Ozempic can also take a supporting role across the rest of the body.

These changes aren’t necessarily dangerous, but they can feel like a surprise twist in your weight loss journey. As your body fat decreases, you may notice shifts in areas like your chest, arms, thighs, and even hands. Even your favourite rings might start feeling a bit roomier.

Fat loss can lead to visible reductions in volume, a bit like removing the stuffing from a well-loved cushion. And just like a cushion, the skin may not bounce back straight away, especially if the weight loss happens quickly.

This can result in looser or sagging skin, particularly in areas like the upper arms (hello, bingo wings), inner thighs, and the abdominal region. While these cosmetic changes are purely superficial, they can have a psychological impact, affecting how you feel in your skin, quite literally.

For some, these visible shifts in body composition can also include increased wrinkling, dry skin, or a change in texture due to reduced collagen and elastin production [3].

Hydration and nutrition play major roles here (and more on that below), but it’s worth remembering that these side effects are not universal, and they may settle as your body finds its new normal. If in doubt, always consult a qualified healthcare provider who can assess your concerns and suggest skin-supportive strategies.

What do Ozempic breasts look like?

Significant weight loss can lead to a reduction in breast volume, resulting in sagging or a less firm appearance. This occurs because the breasts are composed largely of fatty tissue, which diminishes as overall body fat decreases [5].

To address these changes, individuals may consider strength training exercises to build the underlying chest muscles, providing better support and potentially improving the appearance of the breasts.

In some cases, surgical options like breast lifts or augmentation may be explored, but these should be discussed thoroughly with a qualified healthcare provider.

Ozempic's effects on bum and thighs

Another common area where volume loss is noticed during significant weight loss is the buttocks and thighs. While Ozempic face gets all the buzz, Ozempic bum (yes, it’s a thing) is often whispered about in the background.

As fat is lost from these areas, some people experience a flatter or less lifted appearance, especially if the weight comes off rapidly [5]. Incorporating lower-body strength training can help maintain shape and tone, supporting muscle mass and keeping those curves in check while the kilos drop.

How to avoid Ozempic face

Preventing or minimising the effects of "Ozempic face" involves a combination of lifestyle strategies and proactive skincare. Here are some recommendations:​

• Gradual weight loss: Aim for a slow and steady weight loss to allow your skin time to adjust and maintain its elasticity. ​
• Stay hydrated: Proper hydration supports skin elasticity and overall health. Drinking adequate water helps maintain skin plumpness and reduces the appearance of sagging. ​
• Protein-rich diet: Consuming sufficient protein is essential for collagen production, which maintains skin firmness. Incorporate lean meats, legumes, and dairy products into your meals to support skin structure.
• Skincare regimen: Utilise products containing collagen-boosting ingredients like vitamin C and retinol to enhance skin firmness. Regular use of moisturisers and sunscreens can also protect the skin from environmental damage.
• Consult professionals: Regular check-ins with dermatologists or skincare specialists can help tailor a regimen suited to your skin's needs, potentially incorporating treatments like skin-tightening procedures if appropriate.​

Does Ozempic face go away?

The persistence of "Ozempic face" varies among individuals and depends on factors like age, skin elasticity, and overall health.

In some cases, if weight is maintained post-medication, the skin may gradually adapt and retract to some extent. However, this process can be slow and may not fully restore previous facial fullness.

For those seeking more immediate or pronounced improvements, medical interventions such as dermal fillers or fat transfer procedures can offer effective solutions. It's important to have realistic expectations and consult with qualified healthcare professionals to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.

A weight loss plan that has your back (and face)

At Juniper, we understand that the journey to weight loss isn’t always smooth sailing, especially when cosmetic concerns like Ozempic face pop up along the way.

While Juniper doesn’t prescribe Ozempic specifically, our Weight Reset Programme offers Wegovy, a medication from the same GLP-1 family and just as effective at promoting sustainable weight loss.

The difference? You’re not doing it alone. With personalised support from healthcare professionals who understand your unique needs, Juniper helps you lose weight safely and confidently. From medication guidance to expert-led coaching, we’re here to help you feel like yourself again (just a little lighter).