Ozempic Face
The revolutionary impact of Ozempic on weight loss has revealed an unexpected side effect that is gaining increasing attention in the UK: the so-called “Ozempic face.” With the growing popularity of GLP-1 medications across Europe, this phenomenon is becoming ever more relevant for patients in the UK who are considering using this treatment.
What exactly is “Ozempic face”?
“Ozempic face” refers to the distinctive changes in facial appearance that can occur after rapid weight loss from using semaglutide (Ozempic) and other GLP-1 receptor agonists. This rapid loss of facial fat may result in hollow cheeks and temples, making the facial bones more pronounced. The outcome is often a gaunt, aged look that can make people appear older than they actually are.
In the UK, more and more patients are turning to aesthetic clinics because of this unwanted side effect. The term arose because Ozempic is so effective at promoting weight loss that the facial changes are particularly noticeable.
The science behind Ozempic face
How Ozempic works
Ozempic is the brand name for semaglutide, a medication that belongs to the class of GLP-1 receptor agonists. It works by:
Mimicking the hormone GLP-1
Helping regulate blood sugar levels
Slowing down digestion
Promoting a feeling of fullness
These mechanisms make it highly effective for weight loss, but they can also cause unintended changes in the face. In the UK, Ozempic is prescribed by GPs and specialists primarily for type 2 diabetes, but it is increasingly being used off-label for weight management.
Why does this happen?
The face is one of the first areas where fat loss becomes visible. When the layer of subcutaneous fat beneath the skin decreases—particularly in key areas such as:
Cheeks (buccal fat pads)
Temples (temporal regions)
Under the eyes (periorbital area)
Jawline
…the skin loses some of the natural support that gives it volume and a youthful look. UK dermatologists and aesthetic doctors are reporting that they are seeing this phenomenon more frequently in their practices.
Search, compare and book
Compare on experience & price Make an appointment immediately
Recognising Ozempic face: key symptoms
Early signs
The first signs of Ozempic face are often subtle:
Slightly hollow cheeks: Early loss of volume in the cheek area
Reduced facial fullness: The face begins to look less plump
More visible cheekbones: Bones appear more defined due to fat loss
Advanced symptoms
As weight loss continues, the changes become more pronounced:
Deep hollow cheeks: Significant loss of volume in the buccal areas
Loose skin: Sagging caused by the reduction of supportive fat layers
Deepened wrinkles: Existing lines become more noticeable
Sunken temples: The temporal regions lose their natural roundness
Sharper facial contours: A more angular appearance caused by fat loss
Statistics and trends in the UK
Across Europe, the use of GLP-1 medications is rising rapidly. In the UK, Ozempic is available on prescription for type 2 diabetes, but it is not approved on the NHS for weight loss. This means that many people who use it for weight management pay privately, with monthly costs ranging from £150–£250.
According to leading UK aesthetic practitioners, there has been a marked increase in consultations for facial volume loss linked to rapid weight reduction. This highlights that the issue is becoming increasingly significant in the UK as well.
Preventive strategies: how to minimise Ozempic face
1. Gradual weight loss
The most effective way to reduce the risk of Ozempic face is by encouraging gradual weight loss:
Slow dose escalation: Begin with a lower dose and increase gradually
Realistic goals: Aim for a steady loss of 1–2 kg per week
Monitoring: Regular check-ins with your GP or specialist
2. Skin support
A proactive skincare routine can make a difference:
Hydration: Aim for at least 2 litres of water per day
Quality moisturisers: Use products containing hyaluronic acid
Facial exercises: Strengthen facial muscles with targeted movements
3. Nutritional supplements
Certain supplements may help support skin health:
Collagen: 10–20 grams daily
Vitamin C: To boost collagen production
Omega-3 fatty acids: For skin elasticity
Vitamin E: Antioxidant protection
4. Professional prevention
Consider professional treatments during weight loss:
Preventive fillers: Small amounts to help maintain facial volume
Skin-tightening treatments: Such as radiofrequency therapy
Regular consultations: With qualified aesthetic practitioners
Advanced treatment options for Ozempic face
Dermal fillers: the gold standard
Dermal fillers are one of the most effective solutions for treating Ozempic face. Modern hyaluronic acid-based fillers can restore volume and definition in targeted areas:
Examples include:
Juvéderm Voluma: For mid-face and cheek volume
Juvéderm Volift: For overall mid-face restoration
Restylane Lyft: For deeper volume correction
Common treatment areas:
Cheeks and cheekbones
Temples
Under the eyes
Jawline
Nasolabial folds
Non-invasive skin tightening
Morpheus8 treatment:
Combines microneedling with radiofrequency
Stimulates collagen production
Improves skin texture and firmness
Minimal downtime
Other options include:
Ultherapy: Ultrasound-based skin tightening
Thermage: Radiofrequency treatment
Fractional laser therapy
Surgical solutions
For more severe cases, surgical options may be considered with a qualified plastic surgeon:
Mini facelift: For significant skin laxity
Fat transfer: Using the patient’s own fat to restore lost volume
Thread lifts: Minimally invasive lifting procedures
Timing of treatment: when to intervene?
The ideal time to address facial volume loss is once weight loss goals have been achieved. UK specialists generally recommend waiting until:
Weight has stabilised
The Ozempic dose is consistent
No further significant weight loss is expected
Psychological impact and support
The psychological impact of Ozempic face should not be underestimated. Patients in the UK often report:
Reduced self-confidence: Due to unexpected facial changes
Social anxiety: Feeling less comfortable in social situations
Body image concerns: A conflict between the success of weight loss and changes in facial appearance
Support in the UK
Access to counselling or therapy through the NHS or private providers
Peer support through diabetes and weight management communities
Setting realistic expectations with your clinician or aesthetic practitioner
Practical tips for UK patients
Before treatment
Research practitioners: Choose qualified, experienced medical professionals
Set realistic expectations: Understand both the possibilities and limitations
Financial planning: Consider the total cost of treatment, including maintenance
During treatment
Open communication: Discuss goals and concerns honestly
Gradual approach: Opt for subtle, natural-looking results
Follow-up: Schedule regular review appointments
After treatment
Maintenance: Understand how often treatments may need repeating
Lifestyle: Maintain healthy habits to support long-term results
Monitoring: Keep track of any changes or side effects
Regulation and safety in the UK
In the UK, non-surgical cosmetic treatments are regulated differently than in the Netherlands. Key points include:
Only healthcare professionals with appropriate training should perform injectable treatments
The UK government has announced forthcoming licensing requirements for non-surgical cosmetic procedures to improve patient safety
Patients should always be provided with full information about risks, benefits, and alternatives before treatment
Conclusion: a balanced approach
Ozempic face is a real side effect of effective weight-loss medication, but it is both treatable and often preventable. For patients in the UK, the key lies in:
Early recognition of symptoms
Proactive prevention during weight loss
Professional treatment from qualified practitioners
Realistic expectations about results and costs
By following this comprehensive guide, patients can make informed decisions about their care and achieve the best possible outcomes. It is essential to work with experienced professionals who understand both weight-loss medication and aesthetic treatments.
Would you like to explore treatment options for Ozempic face? Consider booking a consultation with a specialist practitioner to create a personalised treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.
Search, compare and book
Compare on experience & price Make an appointment immediately