Advancements in weight loss medications: A look at the future of GLP-1s

Weight loss medications are reshaping the world of aesthetics. These innovative treatments offer patients a path to weight loss that may not have been possible before, with a variety of medications to suit their individual needs and preferences. From pills to injectables, this booming segment of the aesthetics industry has had a profound effect on patients and surgeons alike.

There is no doubt that researchers and pharmaceutical companies alike will continue to keep a heavy focus on this aesthetic segment, leading to more innovations and significant advancements in this field. To learn more about recent advancements in weight loss medications and potential future innovations to look forward to, we reached out to ASPS Member Surgeon Johnny Franco, MD.

Innovations in medication offerings in 2026

One of the major areas of advancement in GLP-1s and other weight loss medications is the treatment options available to patients. In 2026, we will see a boom in new offerings entering the market, ranging from more performative pills to significantly stronger injectables. This will not only make the market more accessible for those who prefer how they receive their GLP-1 medication, but will also likely improve pricing.

"The oral medications coming near the beginning of 2026 will be absolutely huge," said Dr. Franco. "The interesting thing about these is that they are really going to open up the market, not simply replace what is there. There are a lot of patients who will be more inclined to take weight loss medications in pill form than as a shot. However, these pills are going to have to be really consistent to equal the amazing weight loss that we have seen with injectables."

Another promising option making an appearance this year is known as the "triple G," which combines three naturally occurring hormones – GLP-1, GIP and glucagon.

"The triple G, also known as retatrutide, coming out near the end of 2026, is going to change the industry," said Dr. Franco. "The thing that has been a little challenging with this particular option is that there are people already trying to get these medications from off-market places. With the FDA regulation, it has been very interesting to see, and nothing has been released since it is still in phase three trials. Patients are coming in and asking for it – some are even getting it at smaller locations. This is challenging to surgeons because the FDA is saying that it is not yet approved to be prescribed because there is no officially approved compound of it."

Cost is a concern for many patients regarding GLP-1 medications. There have been promises of lower prices, but there has not been a significant shift in that direction. However, the influx of additional medication offerings should help alleviate the high cost that is often associated with weight loss medications.

"The increase of more medications and more companies coming to the market should continue to drive these prices down," said Dr. Franco.

The evolution of aesthetics with weight loss medications

As more patients seek out and succeed with weight loss medications, the aesthetics industry will need to evolve and adapt to better suit their needs beyond weight loss.

"The interesting thing about this is that it was such a fringe topic two years ago, but now it is so mainstream in the aesthetics world," said Dr. Franco. "It will not be long before we cannot separate body contouring as a category from these other weight loss medications. The increased access to and success of GLP-1 medications have changed this pretty dramatically."

In addition to evolving to include weight loss and GLP-1s as methods of body contouring, surgeons will also need to learn to adapt to unique issues that can arise with rapid weight loss, such as skin laxity or volume loss.

"People want things done as fast as possible, including weight loss," said Dr. Franco. "This brings the question of what we are going to do with these new patients who are too young to have skin laxity issues but are presenting with them due to weight loss. This is a big area of concern for surgeons that we will need to continue to address."

The industry has undergone another evolution due to the growing popularity and accessibility of weight loss medications.

"GLP-1s have really stemmed a shift into an overall wellness weight within the aesthetics industry," said Dr. Franco. "This is pushing future changes, such as a movement towards acceptance of regenerative treatments, like peptides. This used to be something on the fringe that mainstream surgeons would not talk about or deal with, but even this is becoming more and more mainstream thanks to this shift towards wellness."

The advent of weight loss medications has given many the ability to finally lose weight and achieve a healthier body and lifestyle. With continued focus from pharmaceutical companies and surgeons alike, there is no doubt that we will continue to see innovations brought to market that improve patients' health and wellness. From the triple G to GLP-1 pills, it's exciting to consider what is coming in 2026 and beyond in this field.

To find a qualified plastic surgeon for any cosmetic or reconstructive procedure, consult a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. All ASPS members are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, have completed an accredited plastic surgery training program, practice in accredited facilities and follow strict standards of safety and ethics. Find an ASPS member in your area.