Ozempic causing 'horse face syndrome - Leading expert explains how to solve

Demand for Ozempic is soaring as Australians turn to the newly approved drug to treat diabetes and obesity.

While Ozempic is helping people to lose weight it is also causing a new phenomenon called Ozempic face, also commonly known as horse face syndrome.

According to Dr Vivek Eranki, CEO of Cosmetique, a leading Australia-wide brand of beauty, injectables and laser hair removal clinics, treatments such as cheek fillers and wrinkle relaxers have seen a huge surge in popularity as Aussies look to treat horse face.

"Horse face syndrome, is a term that refers to the changes in facial appearance, particularly the loss of facial volume and the appearance of sunken eyes, sagging skin and loss of cheek volume that many people experience when using Ozempic," Dr Eranki said.

"Ozempic is a medication primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes, but it is also prescribed off-label for weight loss. Ozempic can lead to substantial weight loss. Weight loss tends to be systemic and includes reduction of fat in the face. This loss of facial fat can result in a gaunt or sunken appearance, often described as hollow and gaunt looking cheeks.

"The rapid weight loss can also result in the skin not having enough time to retract to the new, smaller facial contours, leading to sagging or loose skin.

"The combination of reduced facial volume and skin laxity can make people appear much older than they are, as fullness in the face is often associated with youth.

"Significant weight loss can alter the natural contours of the face, making cheekbones, jawlines and other facial features more pronounced but often in an undesired way. So while many people are experiencing weight loss and feeling better about themselves, they are also finding that their facial appearance is diminishing and they are looking older and hagged.

"Cheek filler is an instant fix for this as it reintroduces volume and gives the face a renewed glow and freshness. Movie stars have been using it for years with great success."

Eranki said patients see cheek fillers are the ideal solution.

What is a cheek filler

"Cheek filler is a product which is injected into the cheek area to restore volume in the face. The most common filler is Hyaluronic Acid which is a naturally occurring substance in the skin that helps retain moisture and add volume," Dr Eranki said.

"Synthetic Hyaluronic Acid is used.

How quickly does the filler take effect

"Cheek fillers are popular because they provide immediate results. Because of this the nurse is able to achieve the most ideal look by perfecting the amount of cheek filler delivered during the treatment. Many people also like the fact that cheek filler is reversible and can be dissolved with hyaluronidase.  The other benefit is that cheek filler has a very low risk of allergic reactions," Dr Eranki said.

"Cheek fillers can be undertaken in your lunch hour and involve no down time at all."

How long do cheek fillers last

"There are a few different types of filler but the most popular is Hyaluronic Acid.  On average it lasts anywhere from six to 18 months. This is an ideal period of time as it gives people the time and scope to normalise their weight after they have lost weight using Ozempic," Dr Eranki said.

Benefits of cheek filler

"Cheek fillers offer a range of benefits especially after dieting, which often results in a loss of volume and definition in the face. Hyaluronic Acid restores volume creating a more youthful appearance. It also enhances the natural contours of the face, creating more defined cheekbones and a more sculpted look," Dr Eranki said.

"Fuller cheeks are often associated with a youthful look. By restoring volume, cheek fillers can help achieve a fresher, more vibrant appearance. Hyaluronic Acid fillers also attract moisture to the skin, helping to keep it hydrated and potentially improving skin texture and appearance."

Dr Eranki emphasised that it is most beneficial to have cheek fillers once you have stopped or slowed weight loss and to stay hydrated to support the filler.

About Dr Eranki

Dr Vivek Eranki is the CEO of Cosmetique. He holds qualifications in governance, finance, management and medicine and has an extensive track record as a CEO in the Health, Wellness and Personal Services industry. He has founded, scaled, and exited ventures across various sectors, including Allied Health, Occupational Health, General and Specialist Healthcare

Website: https://vivekeranki.com
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vivekeranki
Twitter: https://www.instagram.com/vivekeranki
Instagram: @vivekeranki

About Cosmetique

Cosmetique is Australia's First Accredited Cosmetic Clinic. With locations in Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, Western Australia, and New South Wales, they are home to some of Australasia's most skilled and experienced injectors. They are passionate about providing everyday Australians with exceptional cosmetic medical services to enhance their confidence and allow them to feel the way they deserve. Above all, they abide by the principles of professionalism and utmost care to ensure their patients experience the highest quality service and outcomes. Their most sought-after treatments include lip fillers, dermal fillers and wrinkle relaxers.

https://www.cosmetique.au/
Instagram: @cosmetique.au
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