Ozempic Legs: Why GLP-1 Weight Loss Changes the Appearance of the Legs and Thighs

Rapid weight loss from GLP-1 medications can "deflate" the legs, making cellulite and skin laxity more visible as fat pads shrink and muscle mass declines. While lifestyle habits like strength training help, non-invasive treatments like Sofwave™ are FDA-cleared to specifically improve the appearance of cellulite on the thighs and buttocks by remodeling collagen.

“Ozempic legs” describes the visible changes in the lower body especially the thighs and buttocks after rapid weight loss with GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy or Mounjaro. These changes often include:

These changes are common and rooted in predictable physiology, not a sign of something “wrong.” Understanding why they happen can help you make informed, empowered decisions about your body and your options.

GLP-1 medications are highly effective for weight loss, often leading to rapid reductions in subcutaneous fat. The legs, especially the thighs, can lose fat quickly, resulting in a “deflation” effect. This can make the skin look looser and reveal underlying structures.

Scientific studies show that GLP-1 medications can reduce both fat and lean muscle mass. Less muscle beneath the skin may make cellulite more visible and contribute to a less toned appearance.

Collagen, the protein that gives skin its structure, naturally declines with age. Rapid weight loss can accelerate this process, impacting skin quality and resilience.

GLP-1 users often experience dehydration and metabolic shifts, which can affect the skin’s ability to “bounce back”. This may further exaggerate the appearance of unevenness or creasing.

Important: Sofwave™ is FDA-cleared to improve the appearance of cellulite on the thighs and buttocks. While medical science addresses skin laxity differently, Sofwave™ provides a targeted solution for the cellulite dimples that weight loss often unmasks. See all treatment areas.

Cellulite is caused by fibrous bands (septae) pulling down on the skin, creating dimples. When the fat layer thins after weight loss, these bands become more visible.

As skin loses elasticity due to age, weight loss, or both, cellulite can appear more pronounced.

Hormones, especially estrogen, play a role in fat distribution and skin structure. Changes in hormone levels can influence cellulite visibility.

These areas have more fibrous bands, higher estrogen receptor density, and are naturally more prone to cellulite. That’s why changes here are often the most noticeable after GLP-1 weight loss.

The thighs and buttocks are more prone to cellulite and have numerous fibrous bands, making skin changes after weight loss more noticeable. They also have a higher density of estrogen receptors, which affects fat distribution, and experience pronounced age-related collagen decline, reducing skin firmness. These factors make stretching, dimpling, and uneven texture more common in these areas compared to others.

Sofwave™ is an FDA-cleared, non-invasive ultrasound treatment designed to improve the appearance of cellulite on the thighs and buttocks. It uses SUPERB™ technology to support collagen remodeling in the mid-dermis, helping the skin look smoother.

Learn more about GLP-1 solutions with Sofwave™

Sofwave™ ultrasound energy targets the mid-dermis, stimulating collagen remodeling. This process helps improve the appearance of cellulite, leading to a smoother look over time. Clinical studies support these findings.

Sofwave™ is not intended for weight loss, treating loose skin, or tightening skin. It is FDA-cleared only for improving the appearance of cellulite on the thighs and buttocks.

Being clear about what Sofwave™ can and cannot do builds trust and helps you make informed choices.

While Sofwave™ focuses on the skin’s surface and cellulite, the "deflated" look of the legs is often compounded by a loss of lean muscle mass. Pure Impact™ utilizes Electronic Muscle Stimulation (EMS) to mimic the effects of intense physical exercise.

The Perfect Pairing: Many patients use Pure Impact™ alongside Sofwave™ to address both the skin texture (cellulite) and the underlying muscle structure for a more toned lower body.

If you’ve noticed changes in your legs after GLP-1 weight loss, you’re not alone. From lifestyle habits to FDA-cleared treatments like Sofwave™, there are ways to support your skin and improve the appearance of cellulite. Explore your options with Sofwave™, talk with a qualified provider, and take the next step toward smoother, healthier-looking thighs and buttocks.