From the Guidelines
GLP-1 inhibitors, such as semaglutide and liraglutide, do not appear to significantly inhibit wound healing or promote hypertrophic or keloid scar tissue formation post-surgically, based on the most recent evidence. The current literature, including a 2025 consensus statement from the Association of Anaesthetists, Association of British Clinical Diabetologists, and other reputable organizations 1, does not support the notion that GLP-1 receptor agonists have a detrimental effect on wound healing.
Key points to consider include:
- The primary mechanism of action of GLP-1 receptor agonists, which involves increasing insulin secretion, decreasing glucagon release, slowing gastric emptying, and reducing appetite, does not inherently suggest a negative impact on wound healing.
- Clinical experience and available data, as of 2025, have not demonstrated significant negative effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists on surgical outcomes, including wound healing and scar formation 1.
- Theoretical concerns about potential impacts on wound healing due to effects on blood glucose levels and anti-inflammatory properties have not been substantiated by clinical evidence.
- Coordination between the surgeon and the prescribing physician is recommended for major surgeries to determine the optimal approach for each individual patient, considering the medication's benefits on blood glucose control and potential risks.
It is essential to note that while there are concerns about the peri-operative use of GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as the risk of pulmonary aspiration, these concerns do not directly relate to wound healing or scar tissue formation 1. The benefits of these medications in improving glycemic control and reducing the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events should be weighed against potential risks in the peri-operative period. Therefore, based on current evidence, discontinuation of GLP-1 inhibitors before surgery solely due to concerns about wound healing or scar formation is not recommended.
From the Research
GLP-1 Inhibitors and Wound Healing
- The current evidence on GLP-1 inhibitors, such as semaglutide and liraglutide, and their effects on wound healing is mixed 2, 3.
- A study published in 2025 found that preoperative semaglutide in nondiabetic patients undergoing body contouring surgery was associated with higher rates of adverse postoperative outcomes, including wound dehiscence, delayed wound healing, and surgical site infections 2.
- In contrast, a study published in 2018 found that the GLP-1 analogue liraglutide facilitated wound healing by activating the PI3K/Akt pathway in keratinocytes, suggesting a potential beneficial effect on wound healing 3.
Hypertrophic or Keloid Scar Tissue
- The 2025 study found that semaglutide was associated with higher rates of hypertrophic scar formation in nondiabetic patients undergoing body contouring surgery 2.
- There is no direct evidence from the other studies to suggest that GLP-1 inhibitors promote hypertrophic or keloid scar tissue formation 4, 5, 6.
Inhibition of Healing Post-Surgically
- The 2025 study suggests that semaglutide may inhibit healing post-surgically, as it was associated with higher rates of delayed wound healing and wound dehiscence 2.
- However, the 2018 study found that liraglutide facilitated wound healing, suggesting that not all GLP-1 inhibitors may have the same effect on wound healing 3.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the effects of GLP-1 inhibitors on wound healing and scar tissue formation 4, 5, 6.