GLP1-s cause weight loss, but do they complicate post-weight loss cosmetic surgery?
More and more patients are using GLP-1 medications to successfully lose weight. The advantage of GLP-1 treatment is the ability to maintain weight loss and improve the associated medical conditions, like diabetes and hypertension, that can lead to complications. Since this class of drugs is relatively new, the risks are still being worked out.
Many patients seek body contouring procedures for loose skin after successful weight loss from GLP-1 treatment, therefore it is important to further examine these novel weight loss therapies. What are GLP-1 medications, and how do they affect cosmetic plastic surgery are what we will discuss today on the San Francisco Plastic Surgery Blog.
What Are GLP-1 Medications
The GLP-1 hormone stimulates insulin release when blood sugar is high, slows digestion (gastric emptying), and signals the brain to reduce appetite. GLP-1 receptor agonists work by mimicking the effects of GLP-1, thus increasing satiety and lowering blood sugar, promoting weight loss and improving metabolic health.
Common GLP-1 Medications include:
- Semaglutide:
- Ozempic (Injection): Approved for Type 2 diabetes
- Wegovy (Injection): Approved for weight loss
- Rybelsus (Oral Tablet): Approved for Type 2 diabetes
- Tirzepatide (Note: Dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist):
- Mounjaro (Injection): Approved for Type 2 diabetes
- Zepbound (Injection): Approved for weight loss
- Liraglutide:
- Victoza (Injection): Approved for Type 2 diabetes
- Saxenda (Injection): Approved for weight loss
- Dulaglutide:
- Trulicity (Injection): Approved for Type 2 diabetes
- Exenatide:
- Byetta (Injection, short-acting)
- Bydureon BCise (Injection, long-acting)
- Lixisenatide:
- Adlyxin (Injection)
Do GLP-1 Medications Help Cosmetic Surgery?
Body Contouring is one of my specialties. The term describes a range of surgical procedures, which remove excess skin and soft tissue in patients after major weight loss. One common type of body contouring procedure is the Panniculectomy. Tummy Tucks and Panniculectomies are among the most common procedures performed after weight loss.
Panniculectomy is a procedure that removes loose, hanging skin and fat (pannus) from the lower abdomen. The Tummy Tuck also tightens the underlying muscles to flatten the foundation of the abdomen. These are commonly problems after weight loss, but can also be seen after pregnancy. Previous studies have suggested possible effects of GLP-1 medications on wound healing, which is especially important after Panniculectomy, because of the extent of surgery, the length of the incision, and the fact that many of these patients have, or are taking GLP-1 medications..
Do GLP-1 Medications Affect Surgical Risks?
According to a recent article on the ASPS website, the results are mixed. “Patients using GLP-1 medications were at a higher risk of delayed wound healing: 18.5%, compared to 7.5% in the non-GLP-1 group. In contrast, GLP-1 users had a lower rate of seroma, or fluid build-up under the wound: 4.9% versus 14.0%. Both differences remained significant after adjustment for other factors. Other complications – including reopening of the surgical wound (dehiscence), infection, and rehospitalization rate – were similar between groups.”
The Body Mass Index was not significantly different between groups; however, the populations were not identical, and other factors may be causal. The population taking GLP-1 medications were more likely to have type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Should GLP-1 Medications be Stopped Before Surgery?
In general, GLP-1 medications should be stopped before surgery. The drug’s ability to stop the stomach from emptying can lead to aspiration pneumonia, hospitalization, and in rare cases death. Be certain to tell your doctor about every medication (prescription and over-the-counter), vitamin, mineral, supplement and herb you take. Pretty much everything that goes on or in your body, even food if you have a restrictive diet, should be disclosed to your surgery for your safety.
Plastic Surgery Consultations
Always consult an experienced and qualified Board Certified Plastic Surgeon for you plastic surgery needs. If you are considering cosmetic plastic surgery in the San Francisco Bay Area, call (925) 943-6353, and schedule a private consultation appointment.
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