Will Ozempic dissolve/metabolize the fat injections/dermal fillers in my face faster?

Question

In 5 weeks I will have some fat injections in my face. Mostly fat but probably also some dermal fillers, depending on what my surgeons suggests for wich area (cheeks, nasolabial, chin, corners of the jawline (not the jowel area)). I am on Ozempic for a while now and I would like to continue to use it after the procedure For 1-2 months. But I need to know if Ozempic will dissolve/metabolize the fat injections/dermal fillers faster or does it have no influence here?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Semaglutide (Ozempic) is a medication primarily used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, and one of its effects can be weight loss, as it slows gastric emptying and makes you feel full, leading to a reduction of caloric intake. However, its specific effect on fat cells, especially when injected as a filler, is not well-studied or documented.
It's important to understand that the metabolism of fat cells and dermal fillers can be influenced by various factors such as individual metabolic rate, the type of filler used, and the area of injection. Therefore, it's difficult to predict how Ozempic might specifically affect the longevity of your facial fillers.

Anna Petropoulos, MD, FRCS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question! Ozempic is primarily used for treating type 2 diabetes and as a weight loss aid. Significant weight loss can lead to a reduction in body fat, which may affect the appearance of fat-based fillers or fat grafts. For example, fat cells injected into the face or other areas could potentially shrink if the overall fat content in the body decreases due to weight loss. Dermal fillers, such as hyaluronic acid-based fillers (like Juvederm or Restylane), are generally not affected by systemic medications like Ozempic. These fillers naturally degrade over time, typically lasting 6 to 18 months. There is no evidence to suggest that Ozempic speeds up the breakdown of hyaluronic acid fillers. In our practice we pair our weight loss program with our aesthetic services in order to keep our patients looking their best while they lose weight. Hope this helps! Genie Alexander, RN BSN for Anna Petropoulos, MD FRCS at Center for Classic Beauty, Danvers & Boston, MA.

Brandon Richland, MD · Answer

Hello Lillyfee and thank you for your question. Ozempic/Wegovy can both help in the treatment of fat loss as one loses weight. Since we cannot determine where fat will be pulled from, it can come from anywhere. Although we wish we could spot reduce in certain areas with weight loss, it is just not possible. There is a chance you may lose some of your fat injections. With filler, this can work a little differently, but anytime there is rapid weight loss, there is also volume loss. In turn, this can mean facial volume looks much less which could require more filler to help balance. Everyone’s metabolism is different and that is difficult to determine if yours would metabolize fat and/or filler faster. I would recommend consulting with the provider placing your fat injections/dermal filler and discuss this with them.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Transferred fat cells behave the same as all other fat cells meaning they will grow or shrink with weight gain or loss.  If you lose significant weight it could potentially impact the transferred fat.  Weight loss will not have any impact on the fillers.  I encourage you to discuss your concerns with your surgeon.

Kevin Chang, MD · Answer

To our knowledge there is not currently significant data regarding Ozempic and the metabolism of fat injections or dermal fillers. That said, physiologically there should not be a direct link between Ozempic and dermal fillers.

Sharon Y. Giese, MD · Answer

When someone loses weight, by any method, all fat cells in the body will shrink. If weight is gained they get larger. The same goes for fat grafting to the face. I would recommend doing it when you are close to your target weight.

Erika Sato, MD, FACS · Answer

Ozempic or semiglutide will cause weight loss or fat volume loss. This can be fat anywhere body or face. So yes, if you get your fat from somewhere else on your body injected in to your face, it can go away when you lose weight naturally or with help of this medication.

Iman Bar, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

The only reason you would notice any change in volume is due to the fat cells around the area where the fillers got injected will decrease in size. I suggest you do your fillers after you have completed your weight loss goal. Then schedule your fillers treatment afterwards.

Will Ozempic dissolve/metabolize the fat injections/dermal fillers in my face faster?

Answers (8)

More Semaglutide Questions

How does Ozempic dosage work for weight loss?

How does Ozempic work for weight loss? What is the science behind it?

Will I gain weight back if I stop Ozempic?

Ozempic vs. Wegovy vs. Mounjaro vs. Rybelsus comparison - What's best?

What Ozempic / Wegovy alternatives are available?

Who is good candidate for Ozempic for weight loss?

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS