Dermatologic Consequences of Ozempic-Induced Weight Loss: A Review of Facial Aging, Aesthetic Implications, and Treatment

Background/Objectives: Semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA), originally developed for Type II Diabetes, has become popular for weight loss due to its ability to suppress appetite and promote fat loss. Although semaglutide’s metabolic benefits are well established, many patients have also reported unintended facial changes including facial fat atrophy, skin laxity, and an aged appearance, collectively known as “Ozempic face.” Methods: To better understand these dermatological effects, a narrative review was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar to identify relevant peer-reviewed literature published between 2010 and 2025. Search terms included “semaglutide,” “GLP-1 receptor agonists,” “Ozempic face,” and “facial fat loss.” Peer-reviewed clinical studies, reviews, and relevant commentary were included; articles not written in English or unrelated to weight-loss aesthetic outcomes were excluded. Results: Weight loss induced by semaglutide is distinctly characterized by rapid, disproportionate depletion of sensitive facial fat compartments such as the malar, temporal, and buccal regions. Preliminary findings also suggest that GLP-1RAs may impact dermal white adipose tissue, affecting collagen production and elastin structure. Findings highlight both the biological mechanisms underlying facial aging in semaglutide users and the current lack of research-based strategies to prevent or treat these changes. Conclusions: Although aesthetic interventions such as dermal fillers and energy-based treatments may help restore volume and contour, more research is needed to characterize long-term effects and develop objective clinical guidelines. Increased counseling and awareness regarding GLP-1RA-induced facial changes should be integrated into patient care, especially as these agents continue to expand in popularity.