Among weight-loss drugs, Ozempic is widely known, though alternatives like Wegovy and Mounjaro exist. Ozempic is not approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for weight loss; it is only approved for treating type 2 diabetes. However, its active ingredient semaglutide is approved for weight loss under the brand name Wegovy.
While Ozempic receives praise, it is also associated with embarrassing side effects, leading to terms like 'Ozempic face' and 'Ozempic mouth'. Dr Carolina Goncalves noted that 'Ozempic face' describes a hollow facial appearance after drug use, though it is rare. Dr Mary Branch added that weight loss cannot be targeted to specific body parts.
Speaking to The Sun, Dr Ed Robinson explained that rapid weight loss can cause aesthetic side effects. He described 'Ozempic mouth' as hollowing and skin laxity around the mouth due to fat loss from the lower face. This can lead to deeper nasolabial folds, more prominent marionette lines, and downturned mouth corners.
Dr Robinson stated the difference can be 'quite stark', especially in those who lose significant weight quickly, as skin struggles to adapt to changing facial structure. He clarified that the changes occur around the mouth, not the mouth itself, potentially causing sunken cheeks, saggy jowls, and deeper lines, making a person appear older. Nonetheless, the health benefits of weight loss likely outweigh these cosmetic changes.
