Demand for skin removal surgeries surges amid weight loss drug boom

Editor's Note

Demand for skin removal surgeries has risen sharply in the US, fueled by the popularity of GLP-1 weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, CNN reported December 9. The trend reflects a growing need for procedures that address loose, sagging skin following significant weight loss, particularly as the use of GLP-1 medications expands.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgery, tummy tucks and breast lifts increased by 30% and 37%, respectively, from 2019 to 2022, with further upticks reported in 2023. Other procedures, including upper arm lifts and lower body lifts, have also seen notable growth, CNN reports. Plastic surgeons anticipate this demand will continue to grow, particularly among younger patients in their 30s and 40s, a demographic increasingly seeking such procedures post-weight loss.

According to the article, these surgeries are not only cosmetic but also critical for alleviating medical issues like rashes and sores caused by excess skin. Risks include bleeding, infections, scarring, and a lengthy recovery process requiring restricted movement. Patients must remain vigilant against weight regain, which could exacerbate other health issues like hypertension and fatty liver disease. The full article offers further information and context, including stories of specific patients.