The Rise of GLP-1 Medications in Modern Aesthetic Medicine

GLP-1 receptor agonists—including Ozempic®, Wegovy®, and Mounjaro®—have significantly reshaped the approach to weight management in the United States. Initially developed to manage type 2 diabetes, these medications have shown powerful benefits in appetite control, delayed gastric emptying, and improved metabolic regulation, making them a compelling option for weight loss.

The impact has been nothing short of transformative. In 2023 alone, over 9 million prescriptions for GLP-1 medications were written in the U.S., according to the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. As these therapies gain popularity, more patients are turning to non-surgical, pharmacologic approaches to achieve and maintain their ideal body composition.

A growing trend among aesthetics-conscious patients that we’ve dubbed "Skinny Ozempic"—a term referring to the lower-dose, controlled use of GLP-1s. Unlike the more aggressive regimens used in bariatric contexts, this approach emphasizes subtle, sustainable weight loss. These patients are typically within a normal weight range or slightly above, but are looking to fine-tune specific areas, preserve lean mass, and avoid a "gaunt" appearance.

It's important to note that this usage should be medically supervised. Low-dose protocols must be carefully managed to avoid muscle loss, nutritional imbalances, or overcorrection. Still, when done correctly, the "Skinny Ozempic" strategy offers an elegant solution for patients who want refinement rather than reinvention.

The lateral subcutaneous brow lift is a refined, targeted technique that elevates the outer portion of the brow—the area most prone to descent. This approach offers a natural enhancement with less disruption to surrounding tissues.

Patients often notice changes in facial fat distribution even after losing just 5 to 10 pounds. This is what we’re seeing a rise in everyday in our Dallas plastic surgery practice:

-Hollowing in the temples and under the eyes
-Deepened nasolabial folds or marionette lines
-Sagging cheeks or early jowling
-Loss of jawline definition
-Thinning of the lips

Treatments For Skinny Ozempic Face

Dermal Fillers: Restore lost midface and lip volume with natural-looking results.
Biostimulators (Sculptra, EzGel): Promote collagen regeneration over time to improve texture and support.
Fat Transfer To The Face: Offers long-term volume restoration using the patient’s own fat.
Skin Tightening (FaceTite®, Renuvion®): Minimally invasive procedures to tighten skin and redefine contours.
Laser Resurfacing & Chemical Peels:  Improve surface texture, tone, and fine lines for a refreshed appearance.
Surgical Rejuvenation: Facelift, neck lift, or blepharoplasty may be considered in cases of significant laxity.

Breasts: Slight Deflation Without A Lot Of Skin Sag

Modest weight loss can lead to deflation of breast volume, even if the skin and support structures remain intact.

Treatments Options

Fat Transfer to the Breasts: A natural, implant-free method for restoring fullness. Research Fat Grafting Breast Augmentation
Breast Augmentation with Implants: Strategically selected small implants can subtly enhance shape while maintaining a soft, natural feel. Research Breast Augmentation

Abdomen: Mild Laxity And Contour Changes

The abdomen may show subtle skin laxity or uneven fat distribution, especially in patients who have retained good skin quality.

Treatments Options

VASER® Ultrasound Liposuction: Targets small fat pockets with high precision. Research VASER® Lipo Here
Renuvion® or BodyTite® RF Tightening: Contracts the skin and improves tone with minimal downtime.
Mini Tummy Tuck: Ideal for minimal skin excess below the belly button.  Research Mini Tummy Tuck Here

Arms & Thighs: Refining the Extremities

These areas may exhibit mild skin laxity or stubborn fat pockets, especially with age-related collagen decline.

Possible Procedure Options:

RF Skin Tightening with Liposuction: BodyTite or Renuvion combined with liposuction offers contouring without large incisions.
No Excisional Surgery Needed: In most "Skinny Ozempic" cases, there's no need for brachioplasty or thigh lifts.

Why Customization Matters

Not every patient seeks or needs dramatic changes. At Dr. John Burns' practice and JOLA Aesthetics, our "Skinny Ozempic" patients are discerning individuals who value precision and restraint in aesthetic care. Our approach is highly individualized to support:

-Nonsurgical facial rejuvenation
-Subtle but strategic body contouring
-Natural-looking breast enhancement
-Minimally invasive tightening procedures with reduced downtime

By aligning treatments with your lifestyle, goals, and anatomy, we ensure that changes are balanced, lasting, and refined—never overdone.

Integrating Wellness with Aesthetics

GLP-1 medications have ushered in a new era where health and aesthetics increasingly overlap. For patients navigating modest weight loss with these therapies, the need for expert aesthetic guidance is greater than ever. Addressing concerns like volume loss, skin laxity, or changes in body shape requires more than a single treatment—it requires a plan that evolves with you.