The latest side effect associated with the weekly injection Ozempic is sagging breasts, which has led to the term “Ozempic breasts” being used. However, experts emphasize that this is a normal occurrence when people lose a significant amount of weight in a short period of time, and is not unique to Ozempic or other GLP-1 drugs used for diabetes or weight loss. Rapid fat loss in the breast area can leave the skin envelope empty, causing the breasts to appear deflated and the nipples to face downward, similar to what happens after traditional weight loss procedures such as gastric bypass.
It is noted that Ozempic users who have been pregnant and breastfed their children may be at a greater risk for experiencing “sad-looking” breasts, which result in less cleavage and fullness. To alleviate discomfort, women can wear a supportive bra at all times except in the shower. Plastic surgery may also be an option for those seeking to address sagging breasts, with procedures such as a breast lift being recommended. This involves removing sagging skin, reshaping the remaining tissue, and repositioning the nipple to face forward instead of downwards.
Dr. Christopher Costa advises patients to wait until they have achieved and maintained their desired weight before considering plastic surgery, as a 2022 study reported that participants regained two-thirds of their weight loss within the first year after stopping their GLP-1 usage. He also encourages individuals to embrace their new body post-Ozempic and to shop for clothes that fit their new size and bust to create the best version of themselves. Some GLP-1 users have reported feeling swollen breasts, with one individual describing the sensation as similar to first trimester pregnancy symptoms, despite not experiencing weight loss.
To address breast swelling, Levine recommends massaging the breasts to increase circulation, as well as using ibuprofen, Tylenol, or a cool compress to relieve symptoms. However, more research is needed to directly link medications like Ozempic to hormonal changes that may cause breast swelling. The increased popularity of Ozempic has led to more people seeking skin-tightening procedures to address other side effects such as “Ozempic butt” (droopy bottom) and “Ozempic face” (hollowed-out cheeks). Plastic surgery, including breast lifts, has seen an uptick in demand as more individuals seek to address changes in their body post-Ozempic use.
