Married At First Sight (MAFS) participant Stella Mickunaite has revealed her decision to turn down a sponsored trip to Bali for a controversial rib contouring surgery, commonly referred to as 'Barbie waist' surgery. Mickunaite, a beauty technician, stated that she was offered the approximately $15,000 procedure for free in exchange for promotion by an overseas cosmetic clinic after her appearance on the dating show.
Mickunaite, 32, initially found the offer intriguing but quickly became concerned after reviewing the terms and researching the procedure. She expressed unease about the potential medical risks associated with permanently reshaping the rib cage, especially compared to surgeries performed under Australia's strict regulations. She noted that only around 3,000 people worldwide have undergone the operation.
"It's a male-created business implanting the thought in my brain that I need to change my skeletal positioning to appease their eye," Mickunaite said, describing her discomfort with procedures marketed to women by highlighting perceived flaws. "The market is going for people that are easily influenced, and I'm like, ah, this is feeling icky. This is feeling not okay."
Her fiancé, Filip Gregov, also played a role in her decision. He reminded her that it was not a procedure she had previously considered and that it was unnecessary.
Mickunaite's MAFS co-star, Bec Zacharia, ultimately accepted the offer and underwent the rib contouring surgery in Bali, despite initial doubts. Mickunaite stated she attempted to dissuade Zacharia, telling her, "Please understand, you don't need this. You're beautiful as you are."
Zacharia documented her experience on Instagram, sharing updates before and after the surgery, which she described as having gone well. The sponsored campaign, which included flying a group of reality stars and content creators to Bali, generated significant media attention. Another MAFS bride, Awhina Rutene, who was part of the group, did not proceed with the surgery.
The body-contouring procedure reshapes the lower floating ribs without removing bone to create a smaller waist. It has gained popularity among influencers traveling to Bali but has also drawn criticism from medical professionals and social media users concerned about promoting unrealistic beauty standards. Mickunaite, who has previously undergone breast implant surgery, emphasized the importance of careful consideration and internal work before pursuing cosmetic procedures.