When it comes to weight loss, the scale isn’t the only thing that changes—your reflection and self-image often transform too.

In this episode, I talk about a topic gaining attention in the media and social circles: "Ozempic face" and the emotional and physical effects of rapid weight loss, especially for those using GLP-1 medications like Wegovy, Zepbound, or Ozempic. I share a story about a friend who hesitated to increase her dosage due to concerns about skin changes, which opened the door to a larger discussion on body image during weight loss. I explain that these facial and skin changes—such as sagging, wrinkles, or looking more tired—aren’t exclusive to medication use but are common with any significant weight loss, especially as we age. 

Furthermore, I walk through ways to manage these concerns, like slowing down weight loss, prioritizing resistance training and protein, staying hydrated, considering aesthetic treatments, and most importantly, shifting focus from appearance to overall health. I emphasize the importance of support, tuning out unsolicited comments, and curating a healthier social media feed. 

If you're navigating weight loss and struggling with body image changes like "Ozempic face," listen to this empowering episode for real talk, expert tips, and compassionate support on your journey.

 

Episode Highlights:

• What “Ozempic face” really means and why it happens

• Emotional impact of rapid weight loss and changing appearance

• How to manage body image concerns during weight loss

• Practical tips: strength training, hydration, and pacing weight loss

• Cosmetic treatment options and when to consider them

• The role of social media in shaping unrealistic expectations

• Reframing the focus from appearance to overall health and wellness

Connect with Dr. Alicia Shelly:

• Website | drshellymd.com

• Facebook | www.facebook.com/drshellymd

• Instagram | @drshellymd

• Linked In | www.linkedin.com/in/drshellymd

• Twitter | @drshellymd

About Dr. Alicia Shelly

Dr. Alicia Shelly was raised in Atlanta, GA. She received her Doctorate of Medicine from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, OH.  Dr. Shelly has been practicing Primary Care and Obesity medicine since 2014.  In 2017, she became a Diplomat of the American Board of Obesity Medicine. She is the lead physician at the Wellstar Medical Center Douglasville. She started a weekly podcast & Youtube channel entitled Back on Track: Achieving Healthy Weight loss,  where she discusses how to get on track and stay on track with your weight loss journey. She has spoken for numerous local and national organizations, including the Obesity Medicine Association, and the Georgia Chapter of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons. She has been featured on CNN, Fox 5 News, Bruce St. James Radio show, Upscale magazine, and Shape.com. She was named an honoree of the 2021 Atlanta Business Chronicle's 40 under 40 award. She also is a collaborating author for the, “Made for More: Physician Entrepreneurs who Live Life and Practice Medicine on their own terms''.

 

Resources:

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