The term “Ozempic face” refers to the noticeable changes in facial appearance, such as gauntness and increased wrinkling, that some individuals experience after significant weight loss from using drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy. These changes are due to the rapid loss of facial volume and fat. Similarly, “Ozempic butt” describes the sagging and loose skin around the buttocks resulting from the same rapid fat loss. These terms, popularized on social media, reflect the broader effects of weight loss with glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) agonists, which are not unique to Ozempic but common to rapid weight loss scenarios, including post-bariatric surgery.
These drugs, semaglutide-based and approved by the FDA for different purposes (Ozempic for type 2 diabetes and Wegovy for weight loss), are effective in reducing body weight when combined with lifestyle changes. Patients typically see an average loss of 15% of their body weight. However, rapid weight loss can lead to several unwanted effects, such as loss of muscle mass and the potential for increased inflammation and joint pressure reduction.
Weight loss generally involves the reduction of three types of body fat: visceral (around the organs), subcutaneous (under the skin), and muscle. The pattern of fat loss varies by individual due to genetic factors, and it’s impossible to target specific areas for weight reduction, known as “spot reduction.” The loss of muscle mass during rapid weight loss can result in weakness, fatigue, and sarcopenia—an age-related decline in muscle strength and mass. To counter these effects, maintaining sufficient protein intake and engaging in regular strength training are crucial during weight loss.