The mass market emergence of weight loss drugs has provided a lifeline for countless individuals dissatisfied with their waistlines, but medical professionals are now highlighting a challenging physical side effect that proves difficult to escape. As medications such as Ozempic and Mounjaro work their magic by suppressing appetite, leading to significant fat reduction, users celebrate numerous health benefits while confronting unexpected cosmetic consequences.
The Rise of 'Ozempic Neck'
Experts report a significant increase in cases of 'Ozempic neck', a modern variation of the traditional 'turkey neck' long associated with ageing. This condition derives its name from the crepe-like red wattle found on actual turkeys, and it represents a weight loss jab side effect that no moisturiser can remedy. Typically, surgery or intensive aesthetic treatments remain the only viable solutions for those affected.
Celebrity Experiences and Public Awareness
Former X Factor judge Sharon Osbourne, aged 73, has been remarkably candid about her experiences with Ozempic, revealing that the medication left her looking physically 'too gaunt'. During a November 2024 appearance on Howie Mandel's podcast, Osbourne expressed frustration about the drug's impact on her physique, stating she cannot regain weight and suspects metabolic changes. Her openness has helped bring this issue into public consciousness.
Aesthetic doctor Dr Emma Goulding, who operates her own clinic in Cheshire, explains the physiological mechanisms behind this phenomenon. 'The neck possesses much thinner skin, reduced oil production, and less underlying support compared to the face,' she notes. 'When fat disappears rapidly, particularly during midlife and beyond, the skin frequently fails to rebound smoothly. Ozempic neck essentially represents the skin's reaction to swift weight loss combined with ageing, which diminishes elasticity, resulting in fine lines, creasing, and laxity.'
Expanding Lexicon of Weight Loss Consequences
'Ozempic neck' joins a growing vocabulary describing often irreversible consequences of dramatic weight reduction for those maintaining their slimmer figures. This includes 'Ozempic feet', referring to sagging or ageing skin on feet due to rapid fat loss, alongside 'Ozempic face' and 'Ozempic butt', all stemming from substantial decreases in body fat.
Ozempic and alternatives like Mounjaro and Wegovy are different brand names for semaglutide, a drug that mimics GLP-1 hormone actions in the brain, regulating appetite and satiety feelings. Weekly doses of these blockbuster weight loss medicines typically help individuals shed 15 to 20 percent of their body weight on average.
Beyond Physical Discomfort
While physical side effects during drug use have been thoroughly documented—ranging from nausea to bloating and constipation—an emerging school of thought suggests such rapid weight loss definitely removes pounds but can simultaneously add years to one's appearance. The neck, like the face, represents one of the most visible human body parts and among the first areas where ageing becomes apparent.
Robbie Williams disclosed losing 25 pounds—nearly two stone—using weight-loss drugs, though some fans expressed concern about his 'skinny' appearance in his 2023 Netflix series. Comedian Rosie O'Donnell has admitted astonishment at the amount of weight she lost while taking her prescription diabetes drug, Mounjaro.
Demographic Shifts in Treatment Requests
Although Ozempic neck predominantly affects older patients, some cosmetic doctors report increasing requests to address sagging neck skin in much younger individuals. Consultant plastic surgeon Mr Paul Tulley observes that 'a growing number of patients in their 20s and 30s are becoming increasingly concerned about their neck's appearance. Many now perceive early treatment as preventative rather than waiting until signs become more pronounced. Celebrity and influencer openness about their treatments has helped remove considerable previous stigma.'
Dr Victoria Manning, Cosmetic Doctor at The Cosmetic Skin Clinic, offers additional insight: 'What proves particularly interesting is that many people discover they actually have necks—not just "fnecks" where the face morphs directly into the neck. When you lose significant weight, definition suddenly appears where none existed before, but loose, crepey skin accompanies this that people weren't prepared for. The neck has become one of the most challenging treatment areas because skin there is so delicate and prone to laxity.'
Treatment Options and Approaches
If surgery or cosmetic 'tweakments' represent the only ways to eliminate 'Ozempic neck', where should affected individuals begin? Dr Emma Goulding advises: 'The positive news is that treatments stimulating collagen, such as radiofrequency, ultrasound skin tightening, and injectable bio stimulators, can significantly improve firmness and texture. Optimal results typically emerge from starting early and adopting a gradual, medically guided approach.'
Beauty Editor Olivia Falcon, writing for You Magazine, detailed her personal experience combating 'Ozempic neck' after developing sagging skin from losing 10kg on the drug. She underwent Revitalis injections containing hyaluronic acid and glycerol to smooth crepey skin, followed by Dr Paris Acharya's three-step Nécolleté treatment involving mesotherapy, Radiesse 'wash' solution, and Plinest polynucleotide injections.
Preventative Measures and Lifestyle Considerations
Is prevention superior to cure? Dr Ed Robinson, who operates a Harley Street aesthetic clinic, explains it's not entirely straightforward but suggests definite steps during weight-loss journeys. 'Aim for slower, steadier change where appropriate,' he recommends. 'If weight loss occurs very rapidly, skin contraction often lags behind. A slower trajectory can sometimes prove kinder to the neck.'
Dr Robinson advises discussing dosage frequency with prescribing professionals and considering lifestyle factors. 'Prioritise dietary proteins since these support lean mass and skin building blocks. Resistance training helps preserve muscle mass, reducing the overall "deflated" appearance. Ensure daily SPF 50 application on the neck—most people neglect this area!'
As weight loss drugs continue transforming lives and bodies, understanding both benefits and potential cosmetic consequences becomes increasingly crucial for informed decision-making and realistic expectations.
