Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 7, 2026

Induction of Ocular Surface Inflammation and Collection of Involved Tissues
Published on: August 4, 2022
Functional and Aesthetic Periorbital, Ocular Adnexal and Ocular Surface Changes Linked to GLP-1 Receptor Agonists
Dimitrios Kapantais1,2, Panagiotis Tsoutsanis1,2
1Department of Ophthalmology, Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust, Rochdale OL12 0NB, UK.
Abstract:
Background/Objectives: Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor agonists have revolutionised obesity and type 2 diabetes management through effective weight loss and metabolic regulation. However, their increasing use has led to reports of adverse aesthetic and functional effects, particularly affecting facial and ocular tissues. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted in October 2025 across PubMed, Embase, and Medline using the terms "GLP-1 receptor agonist," "Ozempic face," "facial lipoatrophy," "ocular surface disease," "orbital fat," and related combinations. Studies reporting facial, periorbital, orbital, or ocular surface changes associated with GLP-1 or GLP-1/GIP receptor agonists were included. Reference lists were screened to identify additional sources. Results: Evidence suggests that GLP-1 and dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonists may contribute to rapid facial volume loss, dermal fat atrophy, and periocular hollowing-collectively termed "Ozempic face." The mechanism is multifactorial, involving both weight-loss-related fat depletion and potential modulation of adipocyte differentiation. Ocular surface improvements have been observed in some studies. Radiologic data demonstrate preferential superficial midface fat loss, informing potential aesthetic correction strategies. Conclusions: GLP-1-based therapies, while clinically effective, can result in perceptible adnexal and periocular changes with aesthetic and functional implications. Awareness of these effects is crucial for multidisciplinary management. Future prospective studies are warranted to clarify mechanisms and guide individualised reconstructive and rejuvenative interventions.
Related Concept Videos
Glucagon-like Receptor Agonists
GLP-1, when administered in high doses intravenously, triggers insulin secretion, inhibits glucagon release, slows gastric emptying, reduces food intake, and restores normal insulin secretion. However, its rapid inactivation by...
Open Angle Glaucoma: Treatment
Drugs such as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, α2- and...
Accessory Structures of the Eye
Glaucoma: Overview
GPCRs Regulate Adenylyl Cylase Activity
Direct-Acting Cholinergic Agonists: Pharmacological Actions

