Weight-loss injections leave Taiwanese woman with sunken cheeks; doctor offers solution

A 45-year-old woman in Taiwan sought help after rapid weight loss from popular injections left her with sunken cheeks and a prematurely aged appearance. The woman had lost over 12 kilograms in three months using the injections, which are designed to suppress appetite and control blood sugar by acting on GLP-1 and GIP receptors.

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If the face becomes loose due to rapid weight loss, you can choose self-funded collagen-stimulating agents combined with hyaluronic acid injections, followed by energy-based treatments, which can improve sunkenness while maintaining nutrition.

While the injections effectively aided her weight loss, they also caused a rapid depletion of facial fat, leading to sagging skin and a gaunt look. This side effect has become increasingly common, with a noticeable rise in consultations for facial hollowness among patients who have used these weight-loss treatments. The rapid loss of subcutaneous fat and collagen contributes to the aged appearance, exacerbating issues like deepened nasolabial folds and sagging jowls.

Dr. Lu Lai-ying, a dermatologist at the Ren-Ai Chang Gung Allied Hospital, explained that the facial changes are primarily due to the rapid loss of fat layers and a decrease in collagen, distinct from natural aging processes. Factors contributing to this include the speed of weight loss and inadequate nutrient intake, such as Vitamin C, zinc, and protein, during restrictive diets.

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The injections work on the incretin GLP-1 and GIP receptors, suppressing appetite and increasing satiety to achieve rapid weight loss and control blood sugar.

To address the sunken appearance, Dr. Lu recommended a personalized treatment plan. This can include a combination of self-funded collagen-stimulating agents and hyaluronic acid injections to restore facial volume and support. Energy-based treatments like ultrasound and radiofrequency therapies can further enhance collagen production and skin tightening. The goal is to help patients regain their natural facial contours and confidence while maintaining their weight loss achievements.

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The danger factors include the speed of weight loss being too fast, and the weight loss process being too harsh, leading to insufficient intake of nutrients such as Vitamin C, zinc, and protein.