Ozempic vs. bariatric surgery in cosmetic impact
Obesity is a global health issue and the need for effective weight loss interventions has never been higher. However, there have been significant advancements in weight loss in recent years. Both bariatric surgery and GLP-1 agonist (semaglutide) medications like Ozempic or Wegovy have shown promising results for weight loss.
When choosing between bariatric surgery and GLP-1 agonists, individual factors and preferences should be considered. In broad terms, bariatric surgery offers high efficacy but carries a greater risk of complications, while semaglutide provides significant weight reduction benefits with a lower risk profile.
In terms of the aesthetic impact, both can lead to excess skin, but patients losing weight with Ozempic may have better skin quality than those who’ve had massive weight loss from bariatric surgery, potentially making them better candidates for cosmetic procedures like body contouring.
Unlike the rapid, massive weight loss after bariatric surgery, semaglutide-induced weight loss is more gradual. This can affect skin quality: slower loss sometimes allows better skin retraction, reducing the need for major procedures like body lifts. However, for others—particularly older patients or those with pre-existing excess skin—surgery remains essential.
You need to remember that any intense weight loss (including patients who experience very rapid weight loss through bariatric surgery or drastic diet) very often results in noticeable physical changes, and the face is no exception. It’s not specific to GLP-1s. It’s a result of rapid weight loss, something that can happen with any significant reduction in body fat. Fat loss while taking weight loss drugs like Ozempic happens across the body, not just in one area like the face and it’s not possible to only reduce fat in specific areas of the body.
A more gradual approach to weight loss may help – by losing weight more slowly, the skin has more time to adjust and may retain more of its elasticity, reducing the severity of any facial changes. Additionally, maintaining a skincare routine that includes moisturising, sunscreen, and products that promote collagen production can help keep your skin elastic and healthy as you lose weight.
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