Maintaining Facial Fullness after Bariatric Surgery

After Bariatric Surgery

If you followed the stories about weight loss drugs, including Ozempic / Mounjaro prescribed off-label and Wegovy and Zepbound for weight loss, you might have seen articles discussing the phenomenon of Ozempic face – essentially a gaunt look resulting from the rapid weight loss; if you’re concerned about a similar situation with bariatric surgery, you come to the right place. In this article, we will discuss how weight loss affects the face and if there are ways to prevent loss of fullness. We will also discuss the idea of aesthetic treatments, including BOTOX and dermal filler, to potentially regain some of that fullness.

Will bariatric surgery cause a loss of facial fat?

The short answer is yes; weight loss will also affect the face. The degree to which this occurs is primarily based on how much weight a patient loses and how rapidly they lose it. Like any other body part, fat accumulates and recedes with weight changes. What we can’t predict, however, is where the fat will disappear first. For some, it may be in the abdomen, while others will be in the arms or the face. It is purely based on the patient’s body.

Age is also a factor in the loss of fat padding in the face. As we age, we lose those fat stores, and a degree of loss in facial fullness should be expected after our mid-thirties.

Is Fat Loss Reversible or Preventable?

The facial fat loss you experience during the weight loss process is typically irreversible. However, there are ways to minimize the loss of fullness. These are also excellent recommendations for anyone, regardless of whether they’ve had bariatric surgery.

Staying well hydrated is vital to ensuring your skin and facial tissue remain plump and healthy. Remember that our bodies are made up of water. Even slight dehydration (figure 1 to 2%) can significantly affect our looks. We are encouraged to drink about 64 ounces of water daily, but we should consider this a baseline. Consider drinking about half your body weight in ounces as a rough estimate. If you’re 200lbs, drink 100oz for the day. Of course, as you lose weight after bariatric surgery, your water intake needs will reduce commensurately. However, remember that with more activity, you must consume more water to compensate. Don’t gulp your water down or drink too much at once. Moderate your intake throughout the day, focusing on higher water intake earlier and slowing your water intake toward bedtime.

Moisturizing your skin is also important, and developing a facial skin care regimen can go a long way toward making your face look smoother and tighter. Dry skin is more prone to wrinkles, loss of depth, and blemishes, so address that with a daily moisturizer and intensive nightly regimen. You can speak to an aesthetics specialist about the best products for your skin type and goals.

Stay out of the sun or use sun protection. The sun is damaging to the skin. Often, we don’t even know that the damage is occurring because it occurs in the deeper layers of skin. Remember that a tan represents skin damage, so if you plan on being outside quite a bit, as many of us want to do all year in West Florida, use an appropriate, high-quality sunscreen and apply liberally and frequently to ensure proper coverage. Just remember that the health of your skin is representative of your general health.

If your age, genetics, or weight loss progress leaves you with a lack of fullness in your face, you can also consider cosmetic and aesthetic options.

BOTOX / Toxin

Botox is an excellent and safe option to eliminate some of the fine lines as you lose weight. Remember that although Botox is not as effective on deep wrinkles, you will see some improvement there, too. Speak to your aesthetic specialist about managing wrinkles and loose skin after significant weight loss.

Dermal Filler

Fillers come in different flavors with varying results and expectations. The most common and perennial favorite of aestheticians and patients alike is hyaluronic acid filler. This uses a substance naturally produced in our bodies that promotes plump and firm skin. Another option for the neck is poly-l-lactic acid filler, which has been shown to stimulate the body’s collagen production, resulting in smoother, more youthful skin in the face and neck.