Semaglutide, often sold under the brand name Ozempic, is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, originally developed for the management of type 2 diabetes. However, extensive research has demonstrated its effectiveness in promoting weight loss. This medication works by mimicking the action of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) in the body. GLP-1 plays a crucial role in appetite control, blood sugar regulation, and overall metabolic function.
Healthy weight loss is an incredible achievement for anyone. However, after a person has lost weight, they may have to deal with stubborn and uncomfortable excess skin and tissue left over. This is particularly notable with semaglutide. So-called “Post-Ozempic Butt” and “Ozempic Body” can occur, leaving patients with sagging skin and contours that lack an aesthetically pleasing appearance. Post-weight-loss body contouring like liposuction, tummy tuck, and Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) procedures can help patients gain a smoother silhouette after achieving their goal weight.
Achieving your desired appearance is a vital step in any weight-loss journey. And by contacting Denver Liposuction Specialty Clinic at (720) 372-2155, you can receive expert help from our compassionate team. They are ready to assist you in scheduling a consultation at our Englewood location.
Contents
What is a GLP-1 Receptor Agonist?
GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide are medications used in the treatment of various conditions, including weight loss and type 2 diabetes. These medications mimic the effects of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which is naturally produced in the body. (1) They are specifically designed to target and activate GLP-1 receptors. By doing so, they stimulate the release of insulin from the pancreas, which helps lower blood sugar levels. Additionally, they reduce the production of glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar levels, and slow down the emptying of the stomach, leading to increased feelings of fullness and reduced appetite.
Pros and Cons of Semaglutide
Semaglutide offers a comprehensive range of benefits for individuals seeking effective weight loss. It has the ability to:
- Promote significant and sustained weight loss
- Reduce the risk of chronic diseases
- Enhance metabolic health
- Increase energy levels
- Improve sleep patterns
- Enhance psychological well-being
It is a powerful tool for achieving long-term health and a better quality of life. However, there are some drawbacks. It is essential to note that it may have gastrointestinal side effects. These can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. (2) These side effects are usually mild and tend to improve over time as the body adjusts to the medication. For some patients, the real problem lies in the areas of their bodies where they have seen rapid weight loss.
What is “Ozempic Butt”?
“Post-Ozempic butt”, “Ozempic body” and even “Ozempic face” are terms coined for the negative aesthetic effects semaglutide can have on the body. Common complaints include:
- Sagging excess skin in the midsection
- Increased skin wrinkling
- Poorly-defined buttocks
- Loss of facial fat pad volume
- A hollowed, gaunt appearance
These effects occur due to rapid weight loss and the skin’s inability to contract enough for contours to be smooth and defined. However, there are ways to address these issues with body contouring procedures.
Post-Ozempic Body Contouring
Body contouring procedures offer effective solutions for specific concerns following significant weight loss. By utilizing advanced techniques such as VASER liposuction, tummy tuck, and BBL we can help reshape and tone your body, giving you the confidence you deserve.
VASER Liposuction
Following semaglutide use, it is not uncommon for people to experience stubborn pockets of fat that will not go away. VASER liposuction is an advanced body contouring procedure offered at Denver Liposuction Specialty Clinic, performed by our experienced surgeons. This innovative technique utilizes ultrasonic energy to effectively target and remove unwanted fat cells, providing patients with precise and transformative results.
During the VASER liposuction procedure, a specialized device emits ultrasound energy that penetrates the targeted areas of the body. These ultrasonic waves specifically target the fat cells, causing them to undergo a process known as emulsification. (3) This process essentially liquefies the fat, making it easier to suction out using a thin cannula.
One of the key advantages of VASER liposuction is its ability to selectively target fat cells while leaving surrounding tissues largely unaffected. This precision allows for smoother and more even results, minimizing the risk of contour irregularities or damage to nearby blood vessels and nerves.
Tummy Tuck
It is common for individuals to experience loose, sagging skin around their abdomen following a weight loss journey. This excess skin can hinder their ability to fully enjoy their new physique and may even cause discomfort or self-consciousness. A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is designed to remove this excess skin and tighten the underlying muscles, resulting in a smoother, firmer abdominal area.
The tummy tuck procedure involves making an incision along the lower abdomen, allowing access to remove the excess skin and fat. The underlying muscles are then tightened and repositioned, creating a toned and sculpted appearance. Finally, the remaining skin is meticulously closed, resulting in a smoother, more contoured midsection. Our plastic surgeon utilizes advanced techniques and technologies to minimize scarring and optimize recovery.
BBL
After significant weight loss, the buttocks often lose volume and appear flat or deflated. This can be disheartening for those who have worked hard to shed the pounds and improve their overall health. The BBL addresses this concern by utilizing a combination of liposuction and fat transfer techniques to reshape and enhance the buttocks.
During the procedure, the surgeon harvests fat from areas of the body with excess deposits, such as the abdomen, thighs, or flanks. This not only helps to sculpt these areas but also provides the necessary fat for augmentation. The harvested fat is then carefully processed and purified before being strategically injected into the buttocks to create a lifted, fuller, and more rounded appearance.
What is EMSCULPT NEO?
EMSCULPT NEO is a non-surgical treatment that combines electromagnetic energy and radiofrequency technology to provide targeted fat reduction and muscle toning in a dual-layer treatment. One of its key advantages is that it is a completely non-invasive procedure. This means that there are no incisions, no anesthesia, and no downtime required. Patients can undergo this treatment without the need for surgery or recovery time.
The technology behind EMSCULPT NEO utilizes electromagnetic energy to induce “supramaximal” contractions in the muscles. These powerful contractions are not achievable through voluntary muscle activity alone. (4) By stimulating these deep muscle contractions, EMSCULPT NEO effectively builds and strengthens muscle fibers, resulting in enhanced muscle tone and definition.
In addition to muscle building, EMSCULPT NEO also addresses stubborn pockets of fat. The radiofrequency technology heats the fat cells, causing them to undergo apoptosis, or cell death. Over time, the body naturally eliminates these damaged fat cells, leading to a reduction in fat volume and improved body contour.
Personal Consultation
A personal consultation with one of our patient coordinators is an important first step towards understanding and exploring the transformative benefits of body sculpting after semaglutide weight loss. With our team of experienced professionals,, we are committed to providing an engaging, detailed, and comprehensive experience tailored to your specific needs.
During your personal consultation, our experts will take the time to thoroughly assess your individual medical history, cosmetic goals, and concerns. This allows us to gain a comprehensive understanding of your unique situation and determine which treatment is the right option for you.
Cost of Body Contouring After Massive Weight Loss in Denver
As each treatment plan is unique to the individual it was designed for, we will give you an estimate after your personal consultation has established a plan. For further information about post-semaglutide body contouring at Denver Liposuction Specialty Clinic, call (720) 372-2155 or contact us via our simple web form.
For the latest information about liposuction and body contouring, read the Denver Liposuction Specialty Clinic blog.
FAQ
Does semaglutide cause skin sagging?
Significant weight loss, which can occur as a result of semaglutide therapy, can lead to skin laxity due to the reduction in underlying fat tissue. The skin may not fully rebound or tighten after weight loss, resulting in sagging.
What can I do if I have sagging skin after taking semaglutide?
There are a number of treatments to resolve body contour incongruencies following semaglutide therapy. These include liposuction, to remove stubborn areas of fat, tummy tucks, to smooth the abdomen, and BBLs to improve a deflated “Ozempic butt”.
Can I get liposuction after taking semaglutide?
Absolutely! Liposuction is a less invasive, convenient, straightforward recovery way to address areas of fat that have seen little-to-no change following semaglutide therapy.
References
- Collins L, Costello RA. Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists. PubMed. Published 2020. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551568/
- Shu Y, He X, Wu P, Liu Y, Ding Y, Zhang Q. Gastrointestinal adverse events associated with semaglutide: A pharmacovigilance study based on FDA adverse event reporting system. Frontiers in Public Health. 2022;10. doi:https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2022.996179
- Ruff PG, Garcia O, Nykiel M, Galanis CJ. Consensus-based Recommendations for Vibration Amplification of Sound Energy at Resonance Ultrasound-assisted Liposuction. Plastic and reconstructive surgery Global open. 2023;11(7):e5110-e5110. doi:https://doi.org/10.1097/gox.0000000000005110
- Swanson E. A Systematic Review of Electromagnetic Treatments for Body Contouring. Annals of Plastic Surgery. 2022;90(2):180-188. doi:https://doi.org/10.1097/sap.0000000000003387