Weight Loss
Ozempic, Mounjaro, and the Plastic Surgery Conversation
In recent years, medications like Ozempic (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) have transformed the weight loss landscape. Originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, these GLP-1 receptor agonists have become widely used for their potent appetite-suppressing and weight-reducing effects. Many patients are now experiencing significant, medically assisted weight loss. Some patients are reporting losing 15–25% of their total body weight without the need for bariatric surgery. As a result, an increasing number of individuals are turning to plastic surgery to address the aesthetic and functional changes that come with rapid, medically driven weight loss.
Trying Mounjaro or Ozempic
These GLP-1 receptor agonists work by regulating appetite, slowing gastric emptying, and promoting a feeling of fullness, leading to reduced caloric intake and steady, often significant, weight loss over time. For individuals who have struggled with traditional weight loss methods, these medications offer a medically supervised alternative that can jumpstart their journey toward better health and improved body composition. We can help you determine if these medications are right for you.
Weight Loss and Its Aftereffects
While weight loss from Ozempic and Mounjaro can be life-changing, it often leaves behind excess or sagging skin, particularly in the abdomen, arms, thighs, breasts, and face. These physical changes can affect a patient’s confidence just as much as their previous weight issues. Unlike surgical weight loss, where plastic surgery follow-ups have long been part of the journey, patients on medical therapies are sometimes surprised by the extent of these changes—and may not realize surgical options are available or appropriate.
Popular Post-Weight Loss Procedures
Plastic surgery after weight loss, whether from medication, surgery, or lifestyle change, focuses on body contouring and skin tightening. Common procedures include:
- Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck): To remove excess skin and restore abdominal contours.
- Brachioplasty (Arm Lift): For tightening loose skin on the upper arms.
- Thigh Lift: To address sagging in the inner or outer thighs.
- Lower Body Lift: A comprehensive procedure that targets the abdomen, buttocks, and thighs.
- Mastopexy (Breast Lift) or Breast Augmentation: To restore volume and position.
- Facelift or Neck Lift: To address facial hollowing and skin laxity from weight loss.
Each surgical plan is tailored to the patient’s unique anatomy, goals, and degree of skin redundancy.
Timing Is Everything
For patients on Ozempic or Mounjaro, timing your surgery is critical. We recommend that patients:
- Achieve a stable weight for at least 3–6 months before surgery.
- Be medically cleared, especially considering these medications can delay gastric emptying—a factor that must be discussed with your anesthesiologist.
- Discontinue GLP-1 medications prior to surgery if advised, typically 1–2 weeks in advance, to reduce the risk of nausea, vomiting, or aspiration under anesthesia.
Consultation and Safety
At our practice, we take a comprehensive approach. During your consultation, we’ll discuss your weight loss journey, your current medication status, and your aesthetic goals. We will ensure you’re an optimal candidate for surgery.
The Final Step in Your Transformation
For many patients, plastic surgery is the final step in their transformation—allowing them to fully enjoy the results of their hard work and commitment to health. Whether you’ve lost weight through lifestyle change, Ozempic, Mounjaro, or other methods, we’re here to help you complete your journey with confidence and precision.