The rapid weight loss facilitated by glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) medications, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, is leading to a rise in cosmetic complaints among patients, according to plastic surgeons. These concerns range from changes in earlobe appearance to sagging breasts and flatter buttocks.
Facial plastic surgeon Sachin S. Parikh noted that the loss of fat across the body, including the small fat pads in the earlobes, can cause them to appear thinner, longer, or more sagging. He clarified that these medications do not damage ear tissue or affect hearing, making any intervention purely cosmetic. Potential treatments for these so-called "Ozempic earlobes" include dermal fillers, fat transfer, laser treatments, or surgical reduction.
Other surgeons have observed an increase in body contouring procedures due to GLP-1-triggered weight loss. Dr. Mohammed Asif reported a significant surge in procedures like panniculectomies (skin removal surgery), abdominoplasties (tummy tucks), breast lifts, arm lifts, and thigh lifts. He stated that the recovery from these procedures is generally less complicated than after bariatric surgery, owing to the more gradual weight loss achieved with GLP-1 medications.
"Ozempic breast" is another common issue, according to Dr. Michael Omidi. He explained that rapid fat loss can cause breasts, which are composed of fat, glandular tissue, and skin, to lose volume. The skin and supporting ligaments may not retract as quickly as the weight is lost, leading to breasts that appear saggy and deflated. This phenomenon is being observed in women in their 30s and 40s who may not have previously required procedures like breast lifts.
Dr. Samuel Golpanian highlighted the emergence of "Ozempic butt," where significant and rapid weight loss results in a flatter, saggier appearance. He explained that the buttocks contain a large amount of fat, and when this volume disappears quickly, the skin may not tighten sufficiently to maintain the previous shape.
Surgeons affiliated with the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) have also confirmed an uptick in patients seeking skin-tightening procedures after losing substantial weight with GLP-1s. These patients can lose as much as 100 pounds, leading to excess skin.
The ASPS identifies several common body-contouring procedures performed after significant weight loss, including:
Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) to remove excess abdominal skin and fat. Lower body lift (belt lipectomy) to address the abdomen, buttocks, hips, and thighs. Arm lift (brachioplasty) to remove hanging upper-arm skin. Thigh lift to tighten excess skin of the inner thighs. Breast lift (mastopexy) for sagging breasts. Facelift/neck lift to address facial volume loss and skin laxity.
To mitigate some of these cosmetic concerns, experts recommend adequate protein intake and resistance training. Golpanian stressed the importance of consuming at least 110 grams of protein daily, even with a suppressed appetite, and engaging in strength training to help preserve muscle mass and prevent atrophy, particularly in the glutes.