Following newly published medical research, the London aesthetic clinic explains why facial volume loss and skin laxity should be assessed individually before considering cosmetic treatment.
LONDON, UK – October 2026 – Significant weight loss can improve health, but it can also alter facial contours, making the cheeks appear hollow or the skin less firm. DRV Clinic in Marylebone is drawing attention to these changes following new medical research examining facial ageing associated with GLP-1-based weight-loss treatment.
A review published online in Clinics in Dermatology on 10 October 2026 explores the facial changes associated with rapid weight loss, including the reduction of facial fat, changes in structural support and increased skin laxity.
The phenomenon, widely referred to as Ozempic face, has attracted public attention as weight-management medications have become more widely used.
However, similar changes can occur following substantial weight loss without medication.
Why the Face May Look Different After Weight Loss
Facial fat plays an important role in maintaining the natural contours of the cheeks, temples and lower face.
When this tissue decreases, existing lines may become more noticeable, while the skin can appear less supported. The extent of these changes depends on age, genetics, skin elasticity, the amount of weight lost and individual facial anatomy.
Importantly, facial volume loss and skin laxity are different concerns.
Restoring volume does not necessarily tighten excess skin, while treatments focused on skin firmness may not adequately address hollowing.
Razvan Vasilas, who leads DRV Clinic, comments:
“When someone loses a significant amount of weight, the face can change in several ways. Before recommending any aesthetic procedure, it is important to understand whether the main concern is lost volume, skin laxity or a combination of both. Not every patient needs filler, and not every concern can be addressed with injectables.”
How Can Facial Changes Be Addressed?
For selected patients, hyaluronic acid dermal fillers may help restore volume in specific areas of the face.
Collagen-stimulating procedures work differently.
A sculptra treatment uses poly-L-lactic acid to encourage gradual collagen production, potentially improving tissue support and skin quality over time. Results develop progressively and are not equivalent to the immediate volumising effect of traditional dermal fillers.
Treatment suitability depends on the patient’s medical history, facial anatomy and aesthetic goals.
Those experiencing substantial skin laxity may require a different approach, including consideration of surgical options.
Why Timing Matters
Patients who are still losing weight may notice further changes to facial appearance.
DRV Clinic therefore encourages individual assessment and realistic expectations before any aesthetic intervention. Ongoing weight changes, previous procedures and overall health should form part of the discussion.
Patients taking prescribed weight-management medication should continue to follow advice from their prescribing clinician.
For those exploring facial rejuvenation, DRV Clinic provides information about its Sculptra London service, including treatment suitability and the gradual nature of collagen stimulation.
The clinic has also published a detailed comparison of Sculptra versus dermal fillers for patients considering their options.
The original October 2026 medical review is available in Clinics in Dermatology.