Teddi Mellencamp Defends Plastic Surgery Amid Stage 4 Cancer Treatment

Teddi Mellencamp has shared that she underwent an upper blepharoplasty, a procedure to remove excess skin from her eyelids, while continuing to receive treatment for stage 4 cancer. The "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" alum detailed the cosmetic surgery on her Instagram Stories, emphasizing that her cancer doctors had approved the procedure.

Mellencamp, 45, stated that she was awake during the surgery and that she was scheduled to have her stitches removed shortly before a planned immunotherapy session. She shared glimpses of her recovery, including using an ice pack on her eyes while undergoing immunotherapy.

Plastic surgeon Dr. Sarmela Sunder, who performed the procedure, posted behind-the-scenes footage and before-and-after images. Sunder explained that Mellencamp had noticed her upper eyelids becoming heavy over the past few years, a condition that can result from weight fluctuations, pregnancy, or medication use. The surgeon noted that Mellencamp had been considering the procedure for some time but waited until she received medical clearance from her oncologists. The surgery was performed under local anesthesia.

Mellencamp was initially diagnosed with stage 2 melanoma in 2022. By March 2025, her cancer had progressed to stage 4, with doctors finding it had spread to her lungs and brain. She has since undergone multiple surgeries, including procedures to remove brain tumors.

In October 2025, Mellencamp provided an update, stating the cancer was "gone," though full remission would take time. She has also been focusing on her mental recovery, attending therapy to find peace and happiness. Recently, Mellencamp has begun dating a new man following her separation from her estranged husband, Edwin Arroyave. The couple, who have not yet finalized their divorce, share three children: Slate, Cruz, and Dove.