Dr. Terry Dubrow, a renowned plastic surgeon and star of “Botched,” has revealed an unexpected benefit of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs like Ozempic, which he calls “Ozempic penis.” He explained on his podcast that weight loss can make the penis appear larger by reducing fat in the pubic area, a phenomenon he describes as a positive side effect for men.
On the November 24 episode of “Between Us,” the podcast he co-hosts with his wife Heather Dubrow, Dr. Terry Dubrow introduced the term “Ozempic penis” to his listeners. He announced it as a new trend associated with the popular medication, prompting Heather to guess that it might involve difficulties with erection. However, Terry clarified that it is actually a beneficial outcome, emphasizing that it is a “good thing” for men.
Terry elaborated that “Ozempic penis” addresses what he referred to as “buried penis syndrome,” a condition where excess weight in the genital region obscures the penis. He noted that severely obese men often cannot see their penis due to the surrounding fat, but weight loss from drugs like Ozempic can expose it more, making it look bigger. This effect occurs as the reduction in pubic fat reveals more of the shaft, enhancing its appearance without any change in actual size.
As fat diminishes in the pubic area, the penis becomes more visible and appears larger, leading Terry to humorously comment that men on these medications are “more of a shower, not a grower.” He congratulated those experiencing this effect, highlighting it as a perk of the weight-loss journey. This insight adds a new dimension to the discussion around GLP-1 drugs, which are primarily known for their efficacy in managing obesity and related conditions.
Heather Dubrow, however, expressed frustration at the gender imbalance in side effects. She contrasted this with “Ozempic vulva,” discussed in a previous episode, where weight loss can lead to reduced fat and lubrication in women, causing irritation and discomfort. Heather pointed out that while men gain a visual benefit, women may face negative physical changes, underscoring a broader disparity in how these drugs affect different genders.
Dr. Dubrow has personal experience with GLP-1 drugs; he previously took Ozempic but discontinued it because it reduced his pleasure in eating. Despite this, he has shown interest in restarting the medication, likening it to “the new Botox” and praising its efficacy for weight control. His candid discussion reflects the growing public curiosity about these pharmaceuticals and their varied impacts on daily life and body image.
GLP-1 receptor agonists such as Ozempic and Mounjaro have become highly popular for their weight-loss effects, but conversations about their side effects are expanding. Terry’s insights bring attention to less commonly discussed anatomical changes, contributing to the broader public discourse on these pharmaceuticals. As more people use these drugs, understanding both the positive and negative outcomes becomes crucial for informed decision-making.
This revelation may influence how men perceive and use weight-loss drugs, potentially boosting male adoption due to the added incentive of enhanced physical appearance. It also underscores the importance of providing balanced information on both advantages and drawbacks across genders, as medical professionals continue to assess the long-term implications of GLP-1 therapies. Future research and patient education will be key to navigating these developments responsibly.
