# Nonsurgical Aesthetic Treatment of the Face and Neck in GLP-1 Receptor Agonist Weight Loss Patients: Experience-Based Considerations

**Authors:** Amir Moradi, Radina Denkova, Katherine Holcomb, Anthony Rossi, Nazanin Ashourian

PMC · DOI: 10.1093/asjof/ojag011 · Aesthetic Surgery Journal. Open Forum · 2026-01-21

## TL;DR

This paper provides guidance on nonsurgical facial and neck aesthetic treatments for patients using GLP-1 receptor agonists for weight loss, emphasizing multimodal approaches and patient management.

## Contribution

The paper introduces experience-based guidance for nonsurgical aesthetic treatments in GLP-1 weight loss patients, a growing but understudied population.

## Key findings

- Midface volume loss and skin laxity are common aesthetic concerns in GLP-1 users.
- Multimodal treatments including fillers and energy-based devices are recommended for effective correction.
- Regular follow-up and holistic patient support are essential for successful outcomes.

## Abstract

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1)-based therapies are increasingly used to support weight loss. However, there can be significant sequelae with regard to the aesthetics of the face and neck, including midface volume loss; temple, infraorbital, and submalar hollowing; increased skin laxity; accentuation of wrinkles and folds; and worsened skin quality. Individuals seeking nonsurgical correction of these issues are likely to become increasingly common, but treatments have not yet been widely studied in this population. The aim of this paper is to provide experience-based guidance on multimodal nonsurgical aesthetic treatment of the face and neck in patients undergoing weight loss with GLP-1-based therapies. Four clinicians with extensive experience of this patient group completed a written questionnaire and were individually interviewed. Their joint knowledge and expertise form the basis of this guidance. In addition, a PubMed literature search was conducted up to March 31, 2025. Eligibility for nonsurgical modalities does not typically differ greatly in this group compared with other aesthetic patients, but consideration should be given to the optimal timing of treatment within the weight loss journey. Multimodal approaches are usually needed based on volumizing with hyaluronic acid fillers; skin tightening with collagen-stimulating methods (such as energy-based devices); reduction of wrinkles and banding (particularly in the lower face and neck); and other skin quality treatments. Regular follow-up is crucial for tracking outcomes and evaluating evolving aesthetic needs. Holistic management should incorporate detailed patient education and ongoing nutritional, lifestyle, and psychological support. By following these principles, good aesthetic outcomes can be achieved.

Level of Evidence: 5 (Therapeutic)

## Full-text entities

- **Genes:** GCG (glucagon) [NCBI Gene 2641] {aka GLP-1, GLP1, GLP2, GRPP}, ELN (elastin) [NCBI Gene 2006] {aka ADCL1, SVAS, WBS, WS}, GLP1R (glucagon like peptide 1 receptor) [NCBI Gene 2740] {aka GLP-1, GLP-1-R, GLP-1R}, GIP (gastric inhibitory polypeptide) [NCBI Gene 2695]
- **Diseases:** Weight Loss (MESH:D015431), TMJ pain (MESH:D013706), edema (MESH:D004487), infections (MESH:D007239), micronutrient deficiency (MESH:D007153), lax skin (MESH:D012871), rosacea (MESH:D012393), inflammatory (MESH:D007249), muscular atrophy (MESH:D009133), dietary deficiencies (MESH:D000740), telangiectasias (MESH:D013684), volume loss (MESH:D016388), platelet aggregation (MESH:D001791), nutritional deficits (MESH:D009748), volume deficit (MESH:D009461), fat loss (MESH:D004620), atopic dermatitis (MESH:D003876), DEVELOPMENT (MESH:D002658), psoriasis (MESH:D011565), acne (MESH:D000152), erythema (MESH:D004890), acne scars (MESH:D002921), overweight (MESH:D050177), dryness (MESH:D014987), laxity (MESH:D007593), T2D (MESH:D003924), bruising (MESH:D003288), obesity (MESH:D009765)
- **Chemicals:** CaHA (MESH:D017886), polycaprolactone (MESH:C016240), fatty acids (MESH:D005227), Adlyxin (MESH:C479460), PLLA (-), deoxycholic acid (MESH:D003840), vitamin D (MESH:D014807), HA (MESH:D006820), alcohol (MESH:D000438), lipid (MESH:D008055), poly-L-lactic acid (MESH:C033616), Bydureon (MESH:D000077270)
- **Species:** Homo sapiens (human, species) [taxon 9606]

## Full text

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## References

68 references — full list in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC12937588/full.md

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Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC12937588