A sponsored influencer trip to Bali, designed to promote a 'Barbie waist' surgery, has drawn criticism and speculation that it was a large-scale public relations stunt. The campaign aimed to showcase a procedure that reshapes the lower ribs using ultrasonic technology to create a narrower waistline.
Married At First Sight (MAFS) stars Bec Zacharia and Awhina Rutene were central figures in promoting the surgery, generating significant online discussion and media attention. However, both ultimately did not undergo the procedure as planned.
Zacharia initially withdrew from the surgery at the last minute but later announced she would proceed. After her scheduled surgery date, she became notably quiet on social media, leading to fan concern and speculation. She eventually issued a statement thanking followers for their support and assuring them she was well, requesting privacy for a short period.
Sources cited by the Daily Mail suggest Zacharia has not yet had the surgery but remains in Bali. Zacharia herself denied feeling pressured by the company sponsoring the trip, stating she had the full ability to make her own decision and was committed to sharing her experience transparently, whether she proceeded or not. She also addressed online criticism, distinguishing between healthy discussion and personal attacks.
Maya Rutene explained in a social media video that her surgery was delayed due to complications at the newly opened Bali hospital. She stated that she had to return home after eight days due to not being able to stay longer and missing her child, Lennon. Rutene indicated plans to rebook the procedure for later in the year and bring her followers along for that journey.
The outcome has fueled speculation, particularly as Zacharia and Rutene garnered more attention than other participants who completed the surgery, such as former Bachelor star Monique Morley and influencer Carly Ellen. Former MAFS contestant Domenica Calarco commented online that the situation appeared to be a "PR ploy to fix her public perception."
Podcaster Josh Fox, who interviewed Zacharia about her journey, denied being paid by the clinic to promote the operation, stating his role was to document the process. He has since sought to distance himself from the controversy.
The 'Barbie waist' surgery, which is not available in Australia, has seen a surge in popularity among influencers traveling to Bali. The procedure has also drawn criticism from medical experts and social media users who argue it promotes unrealistic beauty standards.