The global spotlight of the World Cup has intensified fan scrutiny of soccer's most recognizable figures, with many questioning whether players have undergone cosmetic procedures. Plastic surgeons are offering their professional opinions on the appearances of several high-profile athletes, analyzing subtle changes in their faces and hair.
Player Appearances Under the Lens
David Beckham, the former England captain, has drawn attention for his noticeably fuller cheeks in recent advertisements. Dr. David Pincus, a New York City plastic surgeon, noted that while elite fitness and nutrition contribute to players' youthful looks, subtle cosmetic tweaks are plausible, especially for major tournaments. Pincus observed that Beckham's midface appears fuller, suggesting potential fillers or fat transfer, which he believes has taken years off his appearance. Pincus also noted Beckham's smoother skin in later images compared to earlier ones, hinting at possible laser or skin rejuvenation treatments, and suggested a hair transplant based on a fuller head of hair in more recent photos.
Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest players, has also faced speculation. Dr. Celeste Nardone, a cosmetic specialist, claimed Messi had undergone numerous procedures, including a nose job, chin enhancement, Botox, dental veneers, ear surgery, cheek filler, and eyelid work. However, Messi's wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, refuted these claims, stating he has never had surgery. Pincus found no clear evidence of major cosmetic work on Messi but noted his exceptionally smooth complexion suggests rigorous skincare, possibly including non-invasive treatments like lasers or radiofrequency therapy to tighten skin and soften lines. Cosmetic dentist Dr. Daniel Naysan suggested Messi may have used clear, removable braces like Invisalign, pointing to small enamel-colored attachments visible on his teeth in some images.
Cristiano Ronaldo, the 41-year-old Portuguese star, also appeared strikingly fresh. Pincus observed decreased crow's feet, suggesting potential Botox use, and increased lip volume, indicating possible lip fillers. He also speculated about the smooth skin, wondering if skin resurfacing or lasers were used. Pincus mentioned that hormonal changes, possibly from growth hormones or peptides, could subtly affect bone mass. Dental experts believe Ronaldo has had cosmetic dental work, likely including porcelain veneers, after being seen with braces in 2005.
Hair Transplants and Other Procedures
Landon Donovan, a prominent figure in US soccer, has openly discussed his battle with hair loss. He confirmed undergoing a hair transplant two weeks before appearing on screen with a patchy hairstyle in 2024. After finding other methods ineffective, Donovan later opted for a hair system, a type of wig adhered to the scalp. Dr. Elie Levine commented that Donovan looks significantly different, noting that while hair transplants have a high success rate, prostheses can be a practical choice for extensive balding.
Gabriel Magalhaes, the Arsenal defender, has also undergone a hair transplant. The Dr. Cinik Clinic in Turkey shared details of his sapphire FUE transplant, aimed at boosting confidence and restoring his hairline. Dr. Levine pointed to Magalhaes's perfectly straight hairline as a key indicator of the procedure.
Mohamed Salah, the Egyptian winger, returned to the pitch with a much closer-shaved appearance, leading Pincus to suggest he likely had a hair transplant. Pincus noted that Salah's receding hairline in 2023 photos disappeared in later images, with visible hair follicles, a result consistent with a hair transplant. Pincus believes Salah has not had other significant work, as his skin appears to be aging naturally.
Gareth Bale, who retired from soccer in 2023, has shown less prominent ears in later career images compared to earlier ones. Pincus suggested Bale likely underwent an otoplasty, commonly known as a pinning back of the ears, to reduce their protrusion. This procedure is often done in childhood to address teasing.
Neymar, Brazil's highest goal-scoring player, appears to be aging gracefully, with Pincus suggesting potential Botox around the eyes and good skincare. However, Pincus and Naysan believe Neymar has had dental work, likely veneers, given his teeth transitioned from natural to looking