Aesthetics attended a panel discussion at The Private Clinic designed to educate, reassure and reframe the conversation around post-weight-loss care.
The expert panel was led by journalist Emma Gunavardhana and featured aesthetic practitioner Dr Victoria Manning, nutritionist Layla Gordan, as well as consultant plastic surgeons Mr Michael Mouzakis and Mr Sandip Hindocha.
The panel provided an in-depth analysis of the physiological impact of rapid weight loss on the skin, looking at perspectives across different disciplines to ensure the patients receive the best care possible.
Gordan explained that at the beginning, many nutritionists were concerned about and opposed to GLP-1 treatment. She emphasised the importance of preparation work before patients receive the medication, such as reviewing blood work, assessing digestive health and the internal microbiome. Gordan also added that if there are existing nutritional deficiencies, this can affect how well someone comes off the medication and how effectively their body responds to weight loss.
Dr Manning reiterated that GLP-1 is a lifestyle medication. She said, “When the ‘food chatter’ has been silenced, that’s when a multidisciplinary approach can really take shape. We need to look at their lifestyle factors and ask the important questions. If someone is living an unhealthy lifestyle, then we’re simply putting a plaster on a big, gaping wound.” She added that gradual weight loss is key to maintaining skin integrity. Introducing collagen-stimulating treatments during the weight-loss process can help improve tissue laxity and support the skin as it adapts and contracts. Promoting slower weight loss also reduces the inflammatory burden on the skin, allowing for better overall outcomes.
Sandip explained that prior to the introduction of GLP-1 medications, patients who experienced significant weight loss typically did so through surgery. However, the rapid rise in the use of GLP-1 treatments may lead to new challenges for patients. He emphasised that this is not a one-size-fits-all drug and that every patient’s weight loss journey is bespoke. This must be carefully considered before discussing any surgical procedures they may be considering. He added, “A key factor is that skin takes time to settle. When people lose weight quickly, skin laxity can be more pronounced. Patients need to maintain a stable weight, typically for six to twelve months, before considering further surgical intervention.”
Looking ahead, Gunavardhana said that fibre and lipoedema, as well as GLP-1 medication, are set to become major talking points in 2026. Mr Mouzakis explained that there is currently no specific treatment for lipoedema available on the NHS, with patients instead offered supportive management.
He noted that many of these patients are non-responders to GLP-1 medications, particularly in the early stages, as their bodies accumulate fat disproportionately and for reasons not linked to lifestyle factors. “These patients often go through a nightmare,” he said. “The GP is usually the first doctor they see, but even two years ago many had limited awareness of lipoedema. Patients frequently feel as though they have two different bodies – a slim, toned upper body and a lower body that is disproportionately affected.”