Injectable weight loss medications such as tirzepatide and semaglutide have helped millions of Americans shed excess weight, but such massive changes in weight also travel with muscle loss, resulting in a side effect that’s been dubbed “Ozempic face” by the media.
A new survey of nearly 2,000 U.S. consumers highlights widespread awareness of the risks of muscle loss from rapid weight loss but also reveals that many patients are not taking proactive steps to preserve muscle tone and youthful appearance. The survey was sponsored by BTL for National Emface Days and conducted by NewBeauty.
BTL’s first annual National Emface Days, a three-day event commencing November 12 each year that is officially recognized by the National Day Archives on the National Day Registry.
“The findings from this survey show that while people understand the impact of weight loss on their muscle tone and appearance, many are unsure of how to take action to maintain a healthy, youthful look,” says John Ferris, VP of Marketing at BTL, in a news release. “During National Emface Days, we aim to bring awareness to the natural non-invasive options available, such as Emface and Exion, to help patients achieve natural facial rejuvenation without surgery.”
Emface tones facial muscles, while Exion’s advanced radiofrequency technology tightens skin and improves texture.
Fully 88.4% of people understand that rapid weight loss can result in muscle loss, yet 33.1% admit they take no action to maintain muscle mass. Additionally, 41.3% place high value on muscle maintenance, the survey showed. Sixty eight percent of survey respondents report difficulty building and toning muscle as they age, regardless of whether they use weight loss medications, 69.6% say weight loss can make individuals look older, and 72.5% acknowledge that appearance influences their sense of wellness and confidence.
“I’m seeing patients in my practice using weight loss drugs on a daily basis, and both Emface and Exion have been highly effective in addressing weight loss management concerns,” says Dendy Engelman, MD, a dermatologist at Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue in New York City. “Emface’s proprietary combination of HIFES and RF thermal energies work within to help rebuild and tone facial muscles and connective tissue while Exion’s advanced technology not only tightens the skin but also enhances skin’s tone and texture. Together, these therapies help improve skin quality and structure by increasing facial muscle tone to create a natural lift.”
About the survey
This survey was conducted via SMS on April 18, 2024, among 1,995 consumers across the United States, focusing on perspectives toward weight loss, muscle maintenance, and non-invasive facial treatments.
