GLP-1’s Role in Plastic Surgery
GLP-1, initially developed for diabetes management, are gaining traction for their role in weight loss. However, rapid weight loss from these medications can lead to sagging skin, creating new challenges in the field of plastic surgery. According to Austin, TX plastic surgeon Johnny Franco, MD, “Patients are now seeking solutions for sagging skin after losing significant weight with GLP-1s. We offer skin-tightening procedures like Renuvion, BodyTite and other surgical options to address this.”
Delray Beach, FL plastic surgeon Drew Schnitt, MD, however, approaches the use of GLP-1 agonists with caution. He states, “GLP-1s have been used for over 20 years, but do we really know what they do to the pancreas, insulin response or even the brain? I’m hesitant to embrace these drugs without more information.” Despite this concern, he acknowledges that they can be beneficial in certain cases. “They need to be used responsibly and accompanied by lifestyle changes to maintain weight loss.”
For patients who have found success with GLP-1 weight loss, New York plastic surgeon Mokhtar Asaadi, MD says extended tummy tucks help remove excess skin and tighten muscles. He notes that “these patients often have laxity from stretched skin and muscle separation, making the extended tummy tuck an effective solution to improve their contour when they’ve reached their goal.”