Dr. Sam Hay, also known as Dr. KIIS, has expressed strong reservations about the "Barbie Waist" surgery recently performed on Bec Zacharia, a participant on the reality show "Married At First Sight." The procedure, which reshapes the lower floating ribs to create a smaller waist, is not available in Australia and has drawn criticism from medical professionals.
Zacharia, 35, revealed on Tuesday that she had undergone the slimming procedure in Bali after weeks of indecision. She shared her experience via social media, documenting her journey from the clinic to recovery. Initially, Zacharia admitted to misleading her followers about having already had the surgery, explaining that delays beyond her control had postponed the procedure. She stated her intention to remain transparent with her audience throughout the process, aiming to counter claims that her trip was a public relations stunt.
In a video posted on Instagram, Zacharia showed herself arriving at the clinic, being prepped for surgery, and later recovering in bed wearing a medical corset. She reported that the surgery went well, with pain levels at a 3 out of 10, and expressed satisfaction with the hospital's care. She anticipates wearing a corset for the next 12 weeks as part of her recovery.
Dr. Hay commented on the procedure during an appearance on the KIIS Breakfast Podcast, calling the body modification "ridiculous." He raised concerns about patients traveling overseas for such surgeries, citing potential complications like infections and inadequate aftercare associated with medical tourism. The "Barbie Waist" surgery reshapes ribs without removing them, a trend that has gained popularity among influencers but faces scrutiny for promoting unrealistic beauty standards.