BACKGROUND: Weight loss associated with glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists is frequently accompanied by reduced facial fat, sagging skin, and stubborn pockets of body fat.
OBJECTIVE: To identify aesthetic concerns related to GLP-1 agonist-associated weight loss and current nonsurgical treatment trends.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: An electronic survey was sent to health care professionals (HCPs) who were part of 3 large, opt-in databases. HCPs must have had experience treating patients with aesthetic concerns after GLP-1 agonists.
RESULTS: The 406 HCPs who completed the survey (n = 100 dermatologists, n = 100 plastic surgeons, n = 105 physicians in other specialties, n = 101 nurses/physician assistants) reported treating a mean of 1,249 cosmetic patients per year. HCPs reported a mean increase of 137% in the number of patients receiving GLP-1 agonists from 2023 to 2024. HCPs perceive midface volume loss, face/neck skin laxity, and loose or sagging body skin to be the aesthetic changes most impacted by GLP-1 agonists, with patients also reportedly concerned about stubborn pockets of fat. Hyaluronic acid was considered the best treatment for facial concerns for an average of 47% of patients.
CONCLUSION: This large survey of HCPs representing various specialties provides insights into patient face- and body-related aesthetic concerns associated with GLP-1-mediated weight loss.
