Ozempic Face
The revolutionary impact of Ozempic on weight loss has revealed an unexpected side effect that is gaining increasing attention in the UAE: the so-called “Ozempic face.” With the rising popularity of GLP-1 medications across the Middle East, this phenomenon is becoming increasingly relevant for patients in the UAE who are considering 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 UAE, 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 UAE, 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. UAE dermatologists and aesthetic doctors are reporting that they are seeing this phenomenon more frequently in their practices.
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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 UAE
The use of GLP-1 medications is growing rapidly across the UAE and the wider region. In the UAE, Ozempic is prescribed primarily for type 2 diabetes under the supervision of licensed endocrinologists, but it is increasingly sought after in private clinics for weight management. Because it is not officially approved for weight loss, patients often pay out-of-pocket, with costs varying depending on the clinic and dosage.
Aesthetic practitioners in the UAE report a noticeable rise in consultations related to facial volume loss following rapid weight reduction. This reflects a growing awareness of “Ozempic face” among both patients and healthcare professionals in the region.
Preventive strategies: how to minimise Ozempic face
1. Gradual weight loss
The most effective way to lower the risk of Ozempic face is by promoting gradual, sustainable weight loss:
Slow dose escalation: Start with a lower dose and increase gradually under medical supervision
Realistic goals: Aim for a steady loss of around 1–2 kg per week
Monitoring: Schedule regular check-ins with your doctor or specialist
2. Skin support
Maintaining a proactive skincare routine can help protect facial volume and elasticity:
Hydration: Aim for at least 2 litres of water per day in the UAE’s warm climate
Quality moisturisers: Use products enriched with hyaluronic acid
Facial exercises: Targeted movements to strengthen facial muscles
3. Nutritional supplements
Certain supplements can support skin health during weight loss:
Collagen: 10–20 grams daily
Vitamin C: Essential for collagen production
Omega-3 fatty acids: Promote skin elasticity
Vitamin E: Provides antioxidant protection
4. Professional prevention
Specialist treatments can help minimise visible changes:
Preventive fillers: Small amounts to maintain natural facial volume
Skin-tightening treatments: Options such as radiofrequency therapy or ultrasound
Regular consultations: With DHA-, DOH-, or MOHAP-licensed aesthetic practitioners to ensure safe, tailored care
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. UAE 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 UAE often report:
Reduced self-confidence: Due to unexpected facial changes
Social anxiety: Feeling less comfortable in social or professional settings
Body image concerns: A conflict between the success of weight loss and changes in facial appearance
Support in the UAE
Access to counselling or therapy through private clinics, hospitals, or licensed psychologists
Peer support through diabetes associations, weight management programmes, and online communities
Setting realistic expectations with your endocrinologist or aesthetic practitioner
Practical tips for UAE patients
Before treatment
Research practitioners: Choose DHA-, DOH-, or MOHAP-licensed professionals with proven expertise
Set realistic expectations: Understand both the possibilities and limitations of treatments
Financial planning: Consider the full cost of treatment, including ongoing maintenance
During treatment
Open communication: Discuss goals and concerns clearly with your practitioner
Gradual approach: Aim for subtle, natural-looking results rather than dramatic changes
Follow-up: Schedule regular reviews to assess progress and adjust the plan if needed
After treatment
Maintenance: Be aware of how often treatments may need repeating
Lifestyle: Support results with healthy habits such as balanced nutrition and hydration
Monitoring: Watch for any side effects or changes and seek professional advice promptly
Regulation and safety in the UAE
Non-surgical cosmetic treatments are strictly regulated in the UAE. Important considerations include:
Only licensed doctors and practitioners are permitted to perform injectable treatments
Clinics and practitioners must be registered with the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DOH), or Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP)
Patients should always receive full information about risks, benefits, alternatives, and expected outcomes 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 UAE, 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 choices about their care and achieve the best possible outcomes. It is essential to work with DHA-, DOH-, or MOHAP-licensed professionals who have expertise in 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.
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