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The rise of ‘Ozempic neck’

he advent of weight loss drugs on the mass market have offered a lifeline for many of us unhappy with our waistlines – but there’s a new physical side-effect that’s very hard to run from, say doctors.

When the fat melts away – as drugs such as Ozempic and Mounjaro work their magic by suppressing appetite, those who take them exalt that the benefits are as plentiful as the food they once devoured.

There’s the raft of health pros – slimmed down souls rave about better sleep, improved mental wellness and the decreased risk of developing serious conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.

However, others will readily admit that the motivation for spending up to £250-a-month on weight loss jabs is purely vacuous – fired by the quest to look better and feel sexier.

And that’s where the latest Ozempic side-effect to emerge is particularly hard to swallow.

‘Ozempic neck’ – a twist on the traditional ‘turkey neck’, which has long been associated with the ageing process and takes its name from the crepe-like red wattle on real-life turkeys – is firmly on the rise, say experts.

It’s a weight loss jab side-effect that no moisturiser in the land can remedy, with surgery or more intense aesthetic treatments often the only option.

Former X Factor judge Sharon Osbourne, 73, admitted that taking Ozempic left her looking physically ‘too gaunt‘.

In November 2024, the wife of late rocker Ozzy, told Howie Mandel’s podcast, she was ‘frustrated’ by what the drugs had done to her physique.

The 73-year-old said: ‘I can’t put on weight now, and I don’t know what it’s done to my metabolism, but I just can’t seem to put any on, because I think I went too far.’

‘Ozempic neck’ finds itself added to a growing list of terms that describe the often irreversible – if you remain slim – consequences of being half the person you once were. 

There’s already ‘Ozempic feet’, referring to sagging or aging skin on the feet due to rapid fat loss – ‘Ozempic face’ and ‘Ozempic butt’, both caused by dramatic reductions in body fat. 

Ozempic and other alternatives like Mounjaro and Wegovy are all different brand names for the drug semaglutide that mimics the the actions of GLP-1 – a hormone in the brain that regulates appetite and feelings of fullness. 

Weekly doses of these blockbuster weight loss medicines can help people shed 15 to 20 per cent of their body weight on average.

While the physical side effects while taking such drugs have been well documented – ranging from nausea to bloating and constipation, there’s an increasing school of thought that such rapid weight-loss will definitely take off the pounds – but it can also pile on the years. 

Like the face, the neck is one of the most visible parts of the human body, and is amongst the first place that ageing is obvious.

Why is the nape and under the jaw so vulnerable to being negatively transformed by weight-loss? 

Aesthetic doctor, Dr Emma Goulding, who runs her own clinic in Cheshire, explains, telling the Daily Mail: ‘The neck has much thinner skin, less oil production and less underlying support than the face, so when fat is lost quickly, especially in midlife and beyond, the skin often can’t bounce back as smoothly.  

‘Ozempic neck is really the skin reacting to rapid weight loss combined with age, which causes reduced elasticity. 

‘That’s when fine lines, creasing and laxity start to show.’

Which other celebrities have struggled with the cosmetic downsides? 

Robbie Williams revealed he lost 25lbs – nearly 2 stone – using weight-loss drugs but some fans were left concerned by the Take That star’s ‘skinny’ appearance in his 2023 Netflix series.

While Ozempic neck is much more likely in older patients, some cosmetic doctors say they’re also seeing requests to remedy sagging neck skin in much younger patients.  

Consultant plastic surgeon Mr Paul Tulley says a ‘growing number of patients in their 20s Many now view early treatment as a preventative approach rather than waiting until signs become more pronounced. The openness of celebrities and influencers discussing their own treatments has helped remove a lot of the previous stigma.’

For some, if it’s been a major amount of weight lost, their neck is likely to look different to the way it has for their entire adult life. 

Says Dr Victoria Manning, Cosmetic Doctor at The Cosmetic Skin Clinic: ‘What’s particularly interesting is that many people are discovering they actually have necks – not just “fnecks” where the face morphs directly into the neck. 

‘When you lose significant weight, suddenly there’s definition where there wasn’t before, but along with that comes loose, crepey skin that people weren’t prepared for. 

and 30s are becoming increasingly concerned about the appearance of their neck.’

The neck has become one of the most challenging areas to treat because the skin there is so delicate and prone to laxity.’ 

So, if surgery or cosmetic ‘tweakments’ are the only way to rid yourself of ‘Ozempic neck’, where should you begin? 

Dr Emma Goulding says: ‘The good news is that treatments which stimulate collagen, such as radiofrequency, ultrasound skin tightening and injectable bio stimulators, can significantly improve firmness and texture. 

‘The best results tend to come from starting early and taking a gradual, medically guided approach.’

Is prevention better than cure? 

It’s not quite as straightforward as that, explains Dr Ed Robinson, who runs a Harley Street aesthetic clinic, but he advises there are definitely steps you can take while your weight-loss journey is happening. 

He tells the Daily Mail: ‘Aim for slower, steadier change where appropriate. If weight loss is very rapid, skin contraction often lags behind. A slower trajectory can sometimes be kinder to the neck.’

Dr Robinson says having a conversation with whoever’s prescribing your weight loss drugs about how often you take the drugs could help. 

‘And consider your lifestyle factors, prioritising dietary proteins as this supports lean mass and skin building blocks. 

‘Resistance training also helps to preserve muscle mass, which reduces the “deflated” look overall. Make sure to apply daily SPF 50 on the neck – most people miss this area!’

Daily Mail

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Fakeeh Health Achieves National Institute for Health Specialties (NIHS) Institutional Accreditation for Residency Training

Fakeeh Health Achieves Institutional Accreditation from the National Institute for Health Specialties (NIHS) for Residency Training

Dubai, UAE – 13 July 2026

Fakeeh Health has been awarded the Institutional Accreditation by the National Institute for Health Specialties (NIHS), reinforcing its position as one of the UAE’s academic healthcare providers and marking another important milestone in its commitment to postgraduate medical education and the development of future specialist physicians. Dr. Mohammed Al Houqani, Secretary General of NIHS, presented the Institutional Accreditation certificate to Fakeeh University Hospital (FUH), noting that this accreditation demonstrates FUH’s compliance with rigorous national standards in postgraduate medical education (PGME). He said he was delighted to see a private hospital actively contributing to healthcare workforce development, adding that academic hospitals play an important role in improving healthcare by integrating clinical care, education, research and continuous quality improvement. The accreditation has been awarded to Fakeeh Health, encompassing FUH together with its network of Fakeeh Medical Centers, recognizing the organization as an approved institution for PGME training in the United Arab Emirates. This achievement follows the successful accreditation of Fakeeh University Hospital’s Medical Internship Program.

The National Institute for Health Specialties (NIHS) is the UAE’s national authority responsible for regulating and accrediting postgraduate medical education and residency training. Institutions awarded NIHS Institutional Accreditation are recognized for meeting rigorous national standards in educational governance, faculty development, resident support, patient safety, clinical learning environments, quality improvement and competency-based medical education.

For Fakeeh Health, the accreditation represents far more than regulatory recognition. It reflects the strength of an integrated academic ecosystem designed to prepare the next generation of physicians through structured residency programs, multidisciplinary clinical exposure and a culture of continuous learning across its healthcare network.

The comprehensive accreditation process assessed multiple aspects of the organization’s educational framework, including institutional leadership and governance, faculty engagement, resident wellbeing, assessment systems, research opportunities, simulation-based education, patient safety, quality improvement initiatives and the overall clinical learning environment.

Since launching its postgraduate medical education programs in collaboration with Dubai Health Authority in 2021, Fakeeh Health has steadily expanded its academic portfolio. Through structured residency and internship programs, competency-based education, faculty development initiatives and simulation-enhanced learning, the organization continues to invest in preparing highly skilled physicians capable of meeting the evolving healthcare needs of the UAE.

Residents training within Fakeeh Health benefit from diverse clinical experiences across Fakeeh University Hospital and its network of Fakeeh Medical Centers, allowing them to gain exposure to primary, secondary and tertiary care while learning within a patient-centered environment that promotes teamwork, innovation and evidence-based practice.

The accreditation also supports the UAE’s long-term vision of developing a sustainable national healthcare workforce and further strengthens Dubai’s position as a regional centre for advanced medical education and specialist training.

Dr. Mazen Fakeeh, Chairman Fakeeh Health, said:

“At Fakeeh Health, we believe that shaping the future of healthcare begins with investing in people. Educating and mentoring the next generation of physicians is one of our greatest responsibilities, and this accreditation reflects years of commitment to building an academic environment where education, clinical excellence and innovation work together. We are proud to contribute to the UAE’s vision of developing a highly skilled healthcare workforce while continuing to raise the standards of medical education across the region.”

Dr. Mohaymen Abdelghany, Group CEO & Board Member Fakeeh Health, and CEO Fakeeh University Hospital, said::

“This accreditation is an achievement for every member of the Fakeeh Health family. It reflects the dedication of our physicians, educators, faculty members and support teams who have worked together to create an outstanding learning environment for future specialists. By investing in high-quality medical education today, we are helping shape the physicians who will care for the communities of tomorrow. We will continue expanding our academic programs, strengthening clinical training and creating opportunities that enable future healthcare professionals to thrive.”

Dr. Mazen Abou Chaaban, Designated Institutional Official (DIO), said:

“Institutional Accreditation is an important validation of the strength of our educational governance, faculty engagement and learning culture. More importantly, it confirms that we have created an environment where residents are supported academically, professionally and personally throughout their training. Our goal is not only to develop competent specialists, but also compassionate physicians who embrace lifelong learning, professionalism and patient-centered care.”

Fakeeh Health expressed its appreciation to the National Institute for Health Specialties for its guidance throughout the accreditation process and acknowledged the dedication of its physicians, faculty members, educators, administrators and support teams whose collective efforts made this achievement possible.

Looking ahead, Fakeeh Health will continue expanding its residency and postgraduate medical education programs while strengthening academic collaborations, research and innovation across its healthcare network. The organization remains committed to preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals and supporting the UAE’s ambition to become a global leader in healthcare, medical education and clinical excellence.

About Fakeeh Health

Fakeeh Health is an integrated academic healthcare network comprising Fakeeh University Hospital and a growing network of Fakeeh Medical Centers across the UAE. By combining world-class patient care with medical education, research and innovation, Fakeeh Health is committed to developing future healthcare professionals while delivering exceptional, patient-centered care across every stage of the healthcare journey.

Academic Excellence at a Glance

NIHS Institutional Accreditation for Residency Training

NIHS-accredited Medical Internship Program

More than 600 undergraduate healthcare students trained annually

Structured residency, internship and clinical training programmes

Strong partnerships with leading national and international universities and healthcare institutions

Ongoing commitment to developing the UAE’s future healthcare workforce

For more information please visit our website:

https://www.fakeeh.health
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NMC Royal Hospital, Mohammed Bin Zayed City, Successfully Treats Lifelong Complications from Childhood Surgery

Advanced Reconstructive Surgery Helps Patient Regain Normal Urinary Function After Years of Complications

Abu Dhabi, UAE – A specialist urology team at NMC Royal Hospital, Mohammed Bin Zayed City, led by Dr. Rami Labib, Urologist, has successfully helped a 30-year-old patient regain normal urinary function after years of complications linked to a surgery he underwent as a child.

For many years, the patient experienced difficulty urinating and persistent urine leakage through small openings along the penis. The condition significantly affected his daily life, causing discomfort, embarrassment and a loss of confidence.

The complications were related to hypospadias, a condition present at birth in which the opening of the urethra is not located at the tip of the penis. While hypospadias is commonly corrected during childhood and most patients achieve excellent long-term results, a small number may develop complications later in life that require further treatment.

After a detailed assessment, Dr. Labib identified narrowing of the urethra, known as a urethral stricture, along with abnormal passages that were causing urinary leakage. Imaging tests confirmed the diagnosis and helped the team plan the most appropriate treatment.

To restore normal function, Dr. Labib performed a highly specialised reconstructive procedure known as a buccal mucosal graft urethroplasty. The surgery used a small piece of tissue taken from the inside of the patient’s cheek to rebuild the damaged section of the urethra and close the abnormal openings responsible for the leakage.

Commenting on the case, Dr. Rami Labib said:

“Patients who experience complications years after hypospadias repair often face significant physical and emotional challenges. Every case is different and requires careful planning to achieve the best outcome. Modern reconstructive techniques allow us to restore normal urinary function and help patients return to their daily lives with greater comfort and confidence.”

The operation was completed successfully, and the patient made a good recovery. During follow-up visits, he reported being able to urinate normally without any leakage and described a substantial improvement in his overall quality of life.

Expressing his gratitude, the patient said:

“After years of struggling with urinary problems following multiple surgeries, I can finally urinate normally again without any leakage. I am extremely grateful to Dr. Rami and the entire medical team for restoring my confidence and giving me my life back.”

Dr. Labib noted that advances in reconstructive urology continue to improve outcomes for patients with even the most complex conditions. With expert assessment, personalised treatment plans, and modern surgical techniques, many patients can achieve long-lasting relief and return to everyday activities with confidence.

About NMC Royal Hospital

NMC Royal Hospital is one of Abu Dhabi’s leading tertiary healthcare institutions, providing comprehensive medical and surgical services through highly specialised clinical teams and advanced technology. The hospital offers expertise across a wide range of specialties, including reconstructive urology, with a commitment to delivering safe, high-quality, patient-centred care.

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Fakeeh University Hospital Brings New Hope to Patients with Complex Brain Conditions Through Advanced MRI-Guided Laser Neurosurgery

Russian teenager with high-risk brainstem tumour successfully undergoes minimally invasive laser treatment in Dubai

Dubai, UAE – June 2026 – Fakeeh University Hospital has successfully performed an advanced MRI-guided Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy (LITT) procedure on a 15-year-old patient from Russia suffering from a brainstem glioma, one of the most challenging and high-risk brain tumours encountered in neurosurgery.

The young patient travelled to Dubai after conventional oncology treatments failed to halt the progression of the disease. The tumour, located deep within the brainstem, had caused progressive neurological deterioration, including worsening motor deficits and paralysis, significantly affecting his quality of life and presenting a complex therapeutic challenge.

Following extensive multidisciplinary discussions involving neurosurgery, neuro-oncology, radiology, and rehabilitation specialists, the medical team at Fakeeh University Hospital carefully evaluated all available treatment options. Given the tumour’s location within one of the most delicate regions of the brain, traditional open surgery was associated with exceptionally high risks.

The brainstem controls many of the body’s most vital functions, including movement, breathing, heart rate, and consciousness. Surgical intervention in this area has historically carried substantial risks, including permanent paralysis, respiratory failure, and even cardiac arrest.

To minimize these risks while offering a potential treatment option, the team elected to perform MRI-guided Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy (LITT), a highly advanced minimally invasive neurosurgical technique increasingly used worldwide for carefully selected patients with deep-seated brain lesions.

The procedure was led by Dr. Tommaso Tufo, Consultant Neurosurgeon – Brain and Spine Surgery at Fakeeh University Hospital, using a stereotactic robotic-assisted approach. Through a small skin incision measuring only a few millimetres, a laser fibre was precisely implanted into the target area using advanced robotic guidance and neuronavigation technology.

The implantation phase lasted just over one hour, after which the patient was transferred to the MRI suite. Under continuous real-time MRI monitoring, laser thermal therapy was delivered over the course of approximately one to two hours, allowing surgeons to visualize the thermal effect in real time and precisely control the treatment zone throughout the procedure.

One of the most significant advantages of MRI-guided laser therapy is its ability to reach deep and difficult-to-access areas of the brain while minimizing disruption to surrounding healthy tissue. Real-time MRI thermal mapping provides exceptional precision, allowing surgeons to perform controlled volumetric reduction of tumours without the need for extensive surgical exposure.

Commenting on the case, Dr. Tommaso Tufo said:

“Brainstem tumours represent some of the most challenging conditions in neurosurgery because of their location within structures that control critical neurological and physiological functions. In this particular case, conventional treatment options had become limited, and traditional open surgery carried considerable risks. MRI-guided laser therapy allowed us to reach the lesion through a minimally invasive approach while maintaining a very high degree of precision and safety.”

He added:

“The successful treatment of this patient demonstrates the potential of modern laser neurosurgery to expand therapeutic options for carefully selected patients who may previously have had very limited alternatives. However, the true significance of this technology extends far beyond a single case.”

While the patient continues to undergo physiotherapy and additional oncological treatment as part of his ongoing care, he tolerated the procedure well and was able to resume mobility following treatment.

Dr. Tufo emphasized that MRI-guided Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy should be viewed within the broader context of modern neurosurgery rather than as a solution limited to rare brainstem tumours.

“Laser neurosurgery represents an important advancement in the treatment of selected brain tumours, drug-resistant epilepsy, radiation necrosis, and other complex intracranial conditions,” he explained. “The technology allows us to treat lesions located deep within the brain through a very small incision while minimizing trauma to surrounding tissue. Both adult and pediatric patients may benefit from this approach when conventional surgery presents excessive risk.”

Historically, many patients with drug-resistant epilepsy required open cranial surgery to access and remove seizure-causing areas of the brain. Today, in selected cases, MRI-guided laser ablation offers a less invasive alternative that combines precision, safety, and shorter recovery times.

For appropriately selected patients, the minimally invasive nature of the procedure may significantly reduce hospitalization and recovery periods, with some individuals able to return home on the same day or within 24 hours. More complex cases, particularly those involving critical brain structures, may require extended monitoring to ensure optimal neurological recovery.

The introduction of advanced MRI-guided laser neurosurgery further strengthens Fakeeh University Hospital’s position as a regional center of excellence for complex neurological and neurosurgical care. By combining advanced imaging, robotic guidance, and minimally invasive techniques, the hospital continues to expand access to innovative treatment options for patients facing some of the most challenging brain conditions.

About Fakeeh University Hospital

Fakeeh University Hospital is a leading academic medical center located in Dubai Silicon Oasis and part of Fakeeh Health. The hospital combines advanced clinical care, medical education, research, innovation, and digital health technologies to deliver world-class healthcare services. Through continuous investment in cutting-edge medical technologies and multidisciplinary expertise, Fakeeh University Hospital remains committed to advancing patient care and improving outcomes across a wide range of complex medical conditions.

For more information, visit: Fakeeh Health – Advancing Healthcare with Excellence

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