Ozempic and Plastic Surgery: What You Need to Know
Although it may sound a little strange to call a prescription medication “popular,” the drug Ozempic has certainly earned this rank in recent years. Many women and men alike have used Ozempic (originally developed and approved by the Food and Drug Administration as a diabetes medication) to assist in weight loss.
How Does Ozempic Work?
Simply put, the medication works by imitating a hormone the human body naturally produces that causes the pancreas to release insulin. In turn, insulin helps the body to properly process sugar and thereby manage blood sugar levels. (Hence the medication’s use for type-2 diabetes.) Meanwhile, Ozempic also reduces hunger and slows down the digestion process, often resulting in weight loss.
If I Use Ozempic, Can I Still Have Plastic Surgery?
In short, yes! But there are a couple of key things to know. If you’re currently taking Ozempic (or a similar medication like Wegovy) or still working toward a lower number on the scale, there are two crucial factors to consider as you’re deciding on or planning for a plastic surgery procedure:
Before Surgery, Your Weight Needs to be Stable
Every person’s ideal weight differs depending on factors like height, body type, age, goals, and more. Regardless of what specific number you’ve determined to be your own ideal, it’s important for safety and the best results to achieve a stable, healthy weight before plastic surgery.
If your weight is too low or too high for good health, undergoing surgery will not be a safe option. Plus, if your weight fluctuates frequently, you may not see the results you hope for. That means if you’re still using Ozempic or any other weight loss method in pursuit of your goal, you likely need to wait to schedule a procedure.
On the other hand, perhaps you’ve reached your weight goal relatively recently, and you’re not sure what length of time you need to stay there to consider it stable enough. That’s okay! When you schedule a consultation with Dr. Lucas, he takes the time to fully understand your goals and your own unique health journey to make sure you’re ready for the procedure you’ve hoped for.
Before Surgery, You’ll Likely Need to Stop Taking Ozempic
Remember how Ozempic slows down the digestive process, which is one of the reasons it makes you feel full for longer?
That means undergoing surgery with Ozempic still in your system could make it difficult to completely empty your stomach before the procedure – which in turn results in an increased chance of aspiration, a serious safety risk. That’s why Dr. Lucas recommends that any patient using Ozempic or a similar medication for weight loss discontinue use at least two weeks prior to surgery so that those digestion-slowing effects will no longer be a factor.
Rest assured, at The Lucas Center, safety will always be the top priority while helping you achieve your goals.
Please note: If you take Ozempic to treat type-2 diabetes, your situation requires more consideration. Always consult with your primary care physician before changing your medication regimen, and always inform your plastic surgeon of all medical conditions, medications, or other concerns before undergoing surgery or making a surgical plan.
Work with an Expert You Can Trust
Your health, your body, and your goals are unique. That’s why it’s crucial to consult with an experienced surgeon who will listen to and learn about you. Then, you can partner together to make a surgical plan on the best timeline for you.If you’re ready to start the conversation, give our team at The Lucas Center a call at (865) 217-0572 or schedule your consultation today. We can’t wait to help you achieve the success and the confidence you’ve been looking for!