Aesthetic body contouring in the era of GLP-1 therapy

Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness and clinical applicability of a hybrid injectable protocol combining poly-L-lactic acid and non-stabilized hyaluronic acid for maintaining and improving skin quality in body areas affected by rapid weight loss during GLP-1 therapy. Introduction: The rapid and significant weight loss induced by glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists has transformed the management of metabolic disorders. However, accelerated reduction of subcutaneous fat is frequently accompanied by deterioration of skin quality in body areas, including loss of dermal density, reduced elasticity, skin laxity, and uneven surface texture. These changes often compromise aesthetic outcomes despite successful weight reduction, highlighting the need for targeted aesthetic body contouring strategies during GLP-1 therapy. Materials / method: Patients undergoing GLP-1–based pharmacological weight-loss therapy and presenting with signs of skin laxity and reduced skin quality in body areas, including the abdomen, arms, thighs, and flanks, were included. A structured hybrid injectable protocol was applied, integrating poly-L-lactic acid for dermal remodeling and collagen stimulation with non-stabilized hyaluronic acid for tissue hydration and skin quality support. Injections were performed according to anatomical zone, tissue thickness, and stage of weight reduction. Clinical outcomes were assessed dynamically throughout active weight Results: The hybrid protocol resulted in stabilization and progressive improvement of skin quality despite ongoing weight reduction. Clinical observations included enhanced skin firmness, improved elasticity, smoother surface texture, and reduced skin laxity in treated body areas. The protocol was well tolerated, with minimal downtime and no interference with ongoing GLP-1 therapy. Both patients and clinicians reported high satisfaction with aesthetic outcomes. Conclusion: In the context of GLP-1–induced rapid weight loss, aesthetic body contouring requires protocols focused on preserving and restoring skin quality rather than volumization alone. Hybrid injectable approaches combining poly-L-lactic acid and non-stabilized hyaluronic acid provide a safe, effective, and predictable strategy to support skin quality and body contours during pharmacologically induced weight reduction.