Plastic Surgeons Weigh In on Michelle Obama’s Face’s Transformation – Before & After Photos to Compare

Michelle Obama’s appearance has recently become a topic of discussion, coinciding with the launch of her latest project years after leaving the White House. She now co-hosts a podcast titled “In My Opinion” (IMO) alongside her brother, Craig Robinson.

Her latest endeavor isn’t the only thing drawing attention — Michelle recently debuted a polished, refreshed look in new headshots, sparking conversation about possible enhancements.

Several plastic surgeons offered their perspectives, with all agreeing that subtle procedures may have played a role. One of them is Dr. Jon Turk, a respected New York City plastic surgeon.

With extensive training in facial plastic surgery, Dr. Turk earned his medical degree with honors from SUNY-Downstate Medical College before completing his residency at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. He later specialized further as a Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery Fellow at the University Hospital of Bern in Switzerland.

According to him, Michelle’s apparent weight loss suggests she may have had Botox on her forehead, Morpheus8 laser treatment to tighten her skin, and a small amount of fillers in her cheeks and jawline to create facial balance.

San Francisco-based surgeon Dr. Corey Maas, MD, FACS, echoed Dr. Turk’s observations regarding the Former First Lady’s features.

Known for his expertise in both surgical and non-surgical enhancements, Dr. Maas completed his Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery fellowship at the University of California, San Francisco, following extensive training at top medical institutions.

Dr. Maas noted that Michelle’s skin appears firmer and more sculpted, especially around her jawline and cheeks, which has led to speculation about possible cosmetic enhancements.

Moreover, he suggested she may have used Sofwave, a treatment known for stimulating collagen production. However, he also pointed out that natural factors, such as weight loss and her tightly pulled-back ponytail, could be contributing to the refined look of her facial features.

The changes in Michelle’s appearance may be due to a combination of minor cosmetic procedures, weight loss, and styling adjustments, said Dr. Maas. Subtle enhancements, along with a slimmer physique, could account for the differences observed.

These subtle adjustments, whether from cosmetic treatments, weight loss, or styling choices, have sparked curiosity. At the same time, Michelle’s absence from former President Jimmy Carter’s funeral in early January 2025 raised questions.

While her husband, former President Barack Obama attended the service, she was focused on preparing for her new podcast and taping with her brother.

Though Michelle didn’t attend, her spokeswoman, Crystal Carson, confirmed that she extended her sympathies, stating that Michelle sent “her thoughts and prayers to the Carter family, and everyone who loved and learned from the remarkable former president.”

Although Michelle sent her condolences, a source familiar with the situation revealed that she was in Hawaii and had a scheduling conflict, preventing her from attending the service.

Meanwhile, the other four living former presidents were present with their spouses. President Biden attended with Dr. Jill Biden, Bill Clinton with Hillary Rodham Clinton, George W. Bush with Laura Bush, and Donald Trump with Melania Trump.

While the attorney missed Jimmy’s funeral, she was among the former first ladies who attended Rosalynn Carter’s funeral service in 2023, an event Barack did not attend.

Michelle’s absence from Jimmy’s funeral was not the only major event she missed. She also did not attend Donald Trump’s inauguration in late January 2025, a ceremony she reportedly had never planned to be at.

While Barack joined the other living former presidents for the swearing-in, his wife’s office confirmed on January 14 that she would not be attending the January 20 events. A spokesperson did not provide a reason but released a brief statement noting that former Barack was scheduled to be there, while Michelle would not.

The author’s decision to skip the inauguration was not surprising to those familiar with her views. A source disclosed that she had no interest in putting on a false front for someone she still saw as a danger to American democracy.

Michelle’s strong feelings about Trump are well known, and she has never been one to put on a forced smile for the sake of appearances. According to the insider, she does not make decisions based on expectations, protocol, or tradition.

The mother of two’s absence was also influenced by Trump’s past criticisms of her family and remarks about people of color. Attending the ceremony would have required her to suppress her true feelings, something she had no interest in doing.

After spending eight years in the public eye, fulfilling her duties as first lady, she now chooses to step into the spotlight only when supporting a cause or project that matters to her.

The Chicago native had been present at every presidential inauguration since 2008, including Trump’s first in 2017 as she and Barack departed the White House. In 2023, she reflected on the experience, describing how it felt to witness the transition.

Michelle described the experience of sitting on the stage during Trump’s inauguration as difficult, noting the lack of diversity and representation. She stated that the event did not reflect the broader sense of America. Acknowledging public speculation about her expression that day, she confirmed that she was not in a good mood.

Speaking on her podcast, she admitted that after the ceremony, she cried for 30 minutes, explaining that it was the weight of holding everything in for eight years without fully being able to express it. That emotional release marked the end of a demanding chapter in Michelle’s life, one she described as both an honor and a challenge.

When asked if she is happier now, she affirmed without hesitation. While serving as first lady was the greatest privilege of her life, she acknowledged the weight of the role.

Every decision, from opening the White House to diverse communities to hosting events that made it feel welcoming, was intentional. However, the spotlight was tough on her family, especially her daughters.

She reflected on the hardships she witnessed firsthand — meeting families affected by gun violence, attending funerals, and visiting military bases where sacrifices far exceeded her own.

Despite the pressures, Michelle avoided complaints, knowing that others faced much greater struggles. Now, away from the divisiveness of politics, she feels a sense of relief, believing that outside the political sphere, her voice carries more weight.

Michelle Obama’s evolving public presence, from first lady to private citizen, reflects her commitment to authenticity. Her absence from recent political events and her refined appearance have sparked conversations, but those close to her emphasize that she moves with intention, not obligation.

While she values her time in the White House, she has found greater peace outside the political spotlight. Now, she chooses to engage with the public on her own terms, focusing on projects that truly matter to her.