As with any weight-loss regimen, changes in physical appearance are expected. However, for those using weight-loss injections like Ozempic, some aesthetic side effects are more rattling than others. In fact, semaglutide has elicited its own subset of startling aftereffects, such as "Ozempic face," "Ozempic feet," and most recently, "Ozempic mouth."
"With such rapid weight loss, we're increasingly seeing aesthetic side effects," said doctor Ed Robinson, one of the UK's top aesthetic doctors, in an interview with The Sun. Now, typically, these "aesthetic side effects" are why many patients begin taking Ozempic in the first place (i.e. to get a slimmer waistline). However, some effects are more pronounced and less aesthetically pleasing than others—"notably 'Ozempic face,' 'Ozempic neck,' and now, what’s being referred to as 'Ozempic mouth,'" Robinson said.
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What Does "Ozempic Mouth" Look Like?
While using a semaglutide medication, some users develop a gummy smile, in which an excessive amount of gum tissue is exposed above their top teeth. This is often more noticeable if the person has or develops thin lips. Their cheeks and jawline may also appear more hollow, which combines into a look that medical experts are now calling "Ozempic mouth."
"Ozempic mouth describes the hollowing and skin laxity that can occur around the mouth as fat is lost from the lower face," explained Robinson. Those with "Ozempic mouth" may develop "sunken cheeks, saggy jowls, [and] deeper lines around the mouth," giving the area a droopy and weathered appearance.
"This can lead to deeper nasolabial folds (laughter lines), more prominent marionette lines (the vertical wrinkles that extend from the corners of the mouth down towards the chin), and downturned corners of the mouth," he added.
Although changes in facial appearance are normal—and even expected—with weight loss, Ozempic-related effects can be “quite stark” especially in patients who’ve “lost a significant amount of weight quickly, as the skin struggles to keep up with the changing facial structure,” said Robinson.
Unfortunately, "it often creates a tired or prematurely aged appearance," he quipped.
RELATED: 7 Worst Ozempic Side Effects Reported by Patients
What to Do If You Experience It
Wilson previously opened up about the situation.
Featureflash Photo Agency / Shutterstock
Not only can Ozempic trigger new facial changes, it can "also worsen the appearance of existing fine lines, wrinkles, and skin laxity," according to Michele Green, MD, a New York-based cosmetic dermatologist. This "volume loss" can result in "a more aged smile and overall look," she told DailyMail.com.
Just like "Ozempic face," "Ozempic mouth" is easy to spot, said Green, citing Sharon Osbourne, Rebel Wilson, and Whoopi Goldberg, as well as actor Harvey Fierstein, as obvious celebrity examples.
“Actor and playwright Harvey Fierstein has also been open about taking Zepbound, another weight loss medication, which has led to increased sagging skin and jowls in the face after he lost a staggering 120 [pounds]," she told the outlet.
To counteract "Ozempic mouth," Green said many patients opt for dermal fillers. The cosmetic injectables "restore volume to the face, smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and plump the skin to create a more youthful-looking appearance," she explained.
However, dermal fillers aren't cheap. Plus, they're not a long-term solution for "Ozempic mouth."
If you're concerned, talk with your prescribing doctor or a licensed dermatologist or aesthetician to consider your available options to retain a youthful appearance.
