How 5 Beloved Celebrities Would Look without Plastic Surgery — Photos via AI

• Celebrities like Melanie Griffith, Michael Jackson, Priscilla Presley, and more have turned to cosmetic surgery over the years.
• Some turned to surgery for medical or health reasons while others used it to either alter their looks or make themselves look younger.
• However, what would they have looked like without it? AI unravels this mystery.

The enigmatic journey of Michael Jackson, a global pop icon, is marked by his unparalleled musical talent and a series of cosmetic transformations that stirred worldwide curiosity and debate. Michael Jackson, renowned for his mesmerizing stage performances and groundbreaking music, also became a focal point for discussions around his physical appearance.

Despite admitting to only a couple of nose surgeries, experts suggest that Jackson underwent numerous other procedures that dramatically altered his visage throughout his life, from his early days as the lead vocalist of The Jackson 5 to his demise years later.

The speculation surrounding the reasons behind his extensive cosmetic changes is diverse, with theories ranging from a battle with body dysmorphic disorder (BDD)—a mental condition causing a person to have a distorted view of their appearance—to a desire to dissociate from his heritage. Jackson’s evolving skin color and facial features were a source of intense public scrutiny and discourse.

Sources indicate that Jackson may have had over 50 facial surgeries, spending millions in the process. His procedures reportedly included numerous rhinoplasties, chin implants, cheekbone reductions, and more, aimed at achieving a specific visual aesthetic.

Despite the myriad of surgeries, some of which were attributed to the diagnosis of lupus and vitiligo in 1986 leading to hair loss and uneven skin pigmentation, there’s an understanding that Jackson pursued these changes not just for health reasons but also to fulfill a personal vision of beauty.

Amidst the physical transformations, Jackson’s persona was also influenced by various cultural figures, such as French mime Marcel Marceau, and the challenges posed by his health conditions. The late 1980s and 1990s saw the artist adopting features inspired by Kirk Douglas and undergoing treatments that lightened his skin tone, further fueling discussions about his appearance.

Steven M. Hoefflin, a plastic surgeon closely associated with Jackson during the ’80s and ’90s, has been notably reserved about the specifics of the surgeries. He emphasized that his role was to cater to the happiness of his clients, especially high-profile entertainers, for whom the desired outcomes might diverge significantly from the average person’s expectations, once stating:

“My job is to try to make people happy. In the case of high-level entertainers, the result may not be what the average person would want.”

Jackson’s aesthetic journey began with a childhood injury and was propelled by dissatisfaction with his nose, leading to his first rhinoplasty. This marked the beginning of a series of procedures that would continually reshape his appearance, including surgeries necessitated by accidents and his condition. In 1979, a childhood accident became a catalyst for change when Jackson fell and broke his nose.

This incident began a transformative journey for Michael Jackson, who reportedly detested his nose and had his first rhinoplasty. His nose evolved through meticulous surgeries, including a two-stage procedure in 1981, taking on a narrowed shape and less bulbous tip.

The late musician’s eyes were also a subject of speculation. Despite his denial of cosmetic procedures, his eyes underwent apparent changes. They widened, known as a scleral show, hinting at another transformation procedure. In 1984, Jackson suffered second-degree burns on his scalp while filming a Pepsi commercial.

The incident left a lasting impact, leading to scar revisions and a reliance on painkillers. The late ’80s brought new dimensions to his identity. Tattooing, allegedly influenced by lupus and vitiligo diagnoses, became a necessity. His evolving skin tone, attributed to bleaching creams, makeup, and a penchant for covering up, added to the enigma.

The influence of French mime Marceau in 1995 and the challenges of vitiligo in 1996 further molded Jackson’s appearance. The late ’80s and ’90s witnessed a cascade of changes with him sporting a stronger chin, inspired by Douglas, and a seemingly smaller nose, perhaps due to steroid injections.

Jackson’s lips, which were berry red, underwent subtle reductions, further changing his facial features. His attempts to mask the effects of vitiligo with makeup and his evolving facial features, which blended masculine and feminine traits, contributed to a complex public image. During the 1990s, his skin tone became lighter, attributed to bleaching creams and pale makeup.

The makeup was reportedly his meticulous attempt to conceal blotchy pigment caused by vitiligo. Speculations about Jackson’s nose falling off emerged in 2002 but were dispelled, revealing the use of paper tape by plastic surgeons to control post-op swelling. In 2009, a gaunt look reflected a loss of facial fat, attributed to injections of Restylane.

Dr. Wallace Goodstein, a Beverly Hills plastic surgeon, though not directly involved in Jackson’s care, provided a contrasting viewpoint, estimating that Jackson underwent a far greater number of procedures than officially acknowledged, with the surgeon stating:

“Three times a week, I was in the office, and he probably was there once every six to eight weeks.”

This narrative underscores Jackson’s relentless pursuit of an idealized appearance, a journey that came to an abrupt end with his untimely death in 2009 when he died of a cardiac arrest at age 50. The autopsy report, revealing scars and tattoos, serves as a testament to the physical toll of the life that Jackson lived under the scrutiny of the world.

In death, artificial intelligence offers a glimpse into what could have been, presenting an image of Michael Jackson at 50, unaltered by surgery. This AI-generated image contrasts sharply with the reality of his later years, depicting a visage that retains its natural features, including a broad nose, soft chin, and full lips.

The image also embraces signs of aging, like wrinkles and gray hair, suggesting a version of Jackson more at peace with his identity and heritage, a far cry from the scrutinized and continually altered appearance of his later years.

In place of a strong and cleft chin, he would’ve had a soft and round chin. Full and natural lips take the place of dark and thin lips. Instead of tattooed and plucked eyebrows, the image shows thick and arched eyebrows. His receding and sparse hairline was replaced with a full and curly hairline.

This exploration into Jackson’s transformative journey not only highlights the pressures and complexities of living in the limelight but also opens a window into the potential of technology to reimagine the paths not taken by those who have left an indelible mark on culture and entertainment.

Priscilla Presley, an emblem of timeless beauty and grace, has captivated the hearts of many through her illustrious career in Hollywood and her memorable marriage to Elvis Presley. Known for her striking looks and dynamic presence, Priscilla’s journey in the public eye has been a testament to her resilience and adaptation to change, marked notably by her participation in “Dancing with the Stars” in 2008.

This chapter in her life, however, also highlighted a more tumultuous experience — the repercussions of botched facial surgery at the hands of an unlicensed practitioner. The narrative of Priscilla’s encounter with Dr. Daniel Serrano is a cautionary tale that underscores the risks associated with cosmetic enhancements. Dr. Serrano, who ventured from Argentina to the US, left a trail of distress among several celebrities, including Priscilla.

His promise of a substance superior to Botox turned out to be a perilous lie, as it was revealed that he used an industrial-grade silicone, comparable to lubricants used in automotive maintenance. This revelation came to light following an investigation that ultimately led to Serrano’s imprisonment and subsequent deportation.

The impact of Serrano’s actions on Priscilla and others was devastating, with reports of lumps, facial paralysis, and crater-like indentations. Despite this ordeal, Priscilla courageously underwent corrective surgery in 2008, seeking to mend the physical and emotional scars left behind. Her resilience in the face of such adversity is commendable, illustrating her strength and determination to move forward.

Throughout her career, Priscilla has been a fashion icon, known for her evolving hairstyles and makeup choices that accentuated her natural beauty. From her early days with bouncy blonde locks to her iconic deep red hair, Priscilla never failed to make a statement.

Her approach to makeup, favoring enhanced eyebrows and vibrant lip colors, complemented her ever-changing hairstyles, showcasing her ability to evolve while remaining true to her unique sense of style.

The speculation surrounding what Priscilla might have looked like without her surgical interventions has been a topic of interest among fans and critics alike. Advances in AI technology have provided a glimpse into an alternate reality, generating images that portray a naturally aging Priscilla.

These images, based on her earlier appearances, showcase subtle changes that respect the natural aging process, with her signature features, such as her striking blue eyes and distinct eyebrow shape, remaining prominent.

In recent years, Priscilla made a bold move by adopting a pixie cut and transitioning to a brighter shade of blonde. This transformation, while significant, did not detract from her iconic look. The AI-generated images suggest that an older Priscilla would still retain her striking appearance, with natural wrinkles and a graceful gray undertone to her hair, emphasizing her enduring beauty.

Priscilla Presley’s decision to embrace red hair marked another iconic phase in her aesthetic journey. The AI images offer a vision of how she might have aged gracefully with this vibrant color, integrating natural lines and wrinkles into her appearance. The blend of red and gray in her hair highlights a sophisticated maturity, a testament to her timeless elegance and the enduring appeal of her distinctive style.

Dolly Parton, a luminary in the realms of music and entertainment, has long been candid about her use of plastic surgery, a rarity among celebrities who often shield their cosmetic procedures from public scrutiny. Parton’s openness and humor regarding her surgical enhancements underscore a broader narrative about self-image, aging, and the pressures of living in the limelight.

Unlike many, Parton has always approached plastic surgery with a philosophy of moderation and necessity. She views these interventions not as a denial of aging but as a means to maintain confidence and authenticity in her appearance. “Because I need it,” she succinctly remarks, highlighting a pragmatic approach to cosmetic surgery that balances self-enhancement with self-acceptance.

Parton’s decision to embrace cosmetic surgery stems from the demands of her career and her personal assessment of her natural beauty. “I am not a natural beauty,” she admits, yet her judicious use of surgery is aimed at refinement rather than transformation. Her strategy of “just tweaking” reveals a nuanced understanding of plastic surgery as a tool for preservation rather than a gateway to perpetual youth.

The effectiveness of Parton’s cosmetic choices is such that her expertise is sought after, even among her peers. Her willingness to share her experiences and recommendations reflects a communal spirit, underscoring the importance of informed choices and professional care in cosmetic procedures. She also believes in never overdoing it and finding the best medical professionals.

Despite the alterations to her appearance, Parton remains unfazed by the potential for her beauty to overshadow her talents. The country music star is also known for her breasts, which she said she had lifted and not injected. Parton’s beauty is always a source of discussion. Her confidence in her musical and personal identity suggests a deep-seated resilience, a quality that AI technology has sought to visualize by imagining her appearance sans cosmetic interventions.

Through AI-generated imagery, a vision of Parton in her 70s without the influence of plastic surgery emerges, revealing a face marked by the natural passage of time. The simulated wrinkles and lines speak to a life rich in experiences, laughter, and expression, offering a poignant contrast to the smoothed visages often promoted in the entertainment industry.

These AI renditions provide a hypothetical glimpse into an alternative aesthetic journey for Parton, one where the contours and creases of age are embraced as the authentic sculpting of life’s narrative. The images celebrate aging as an inherent aspect of beauty, challenging societal norms around beauty and aging.

The AI projections underscore a potential depth and resilience in Parton’s appearance, untapped by cosmetic procedures. The imagined depth in her eyes and the natural grace of her aging process reflect a version of beauty rooted in authenticity and experience, rather than the perfection often sought through surgery.

This hypothetical version of Parton, devoid of surgical alterations, radiates a serene acceptance of the aging process, embodying a peace that comes from a life lived fully and without pretense. The natural glow attributed to her in these AI visualizations transcends cosmetic enhancement, suggesting a beauty that comes from within.

Yet, Parton’s pragmatic stance on plastic surgery acknowledges its downsides, such as the occasional excessive swelling and the resultant delays in her professional commitments. Her candidness about these challenges adds depth to the conversation around cosmetic surgery, highlighting the delicate balance between aesthetic desires and the realities of surgical intervention.

Despite these occasional setbacks, Dolly Parton’s readiness to address signs of aging through surgery speaks to a broader philosophy of self-care and self-improvement that defines her approach to life and appearance. Her journey underscores a nuanced perspective on aging and beauty, where surgical enhancements are neither vilified nor exalted but seen as one of many tools at one’s disposal for navigating the passage of time.

Sharon Osbourne, renowned for her forthright personality and her marriage to legendary rocker Ozzy Osbourne, has navigated the complexities of fame with a distinctive candor, particularly regarding her journey with plastic surgery. Her public openness about undergoing cosmetic procedures reflects a broader narrative of self-improvement and the quest for self-satisfaction within the glare of the public eye.

After various procedures, Sharon reached a point of contentment with her appearance, declaring in 2023 her decision to step away from further surgeries. This decision marked a significant chapter in her life, signaling a shift towards embracing her natural aging process after years of modifications aimed at enhancing her appearance.

Here is how she looked from 1986 to 2022 and how she would have appeared had she not undergone cosmetic surgery, including Botox and a facelift. 1986: Sharon is pictured with her children looking like her natural self. The TV personality’s smile and joy shine in the picture. She is a mother to three children, Aimee, Jack, and Kelly.

1987: The music manager and her husband have been together for 41 years now. The two have taken care of each other through health challenges. Here, Sharon’s appearance is yet to change drastically.

2000: The former “X Factor” judge is seen with Ozzy, whose successful career she helped launch and maintain. The two are a formidable business team.

2001: Sharon built her professional name as a music manager and television personality. She is also an author who released her debut novel in 2010. In this picture, her beautiful face is seen as she leaves a hotel with her family.

2002: The star’s public profile was raised when her husband became a hit as a musician. She often attended events such as movie premieres. In this photo, the stunning music manager is seen at one of the award events she attended.

2016: The 71-year-old’s fame increased as a reality television personality. She and her husband would attend events together and support each other at the peak of their careers. This photo shows how Sharon has aged as compared to how she looked in 1986.

2019: Sharon’s appearance kept changing over the years. In this picture, she is seen on the streets, having lost weight. Still, the “It’s a Boy Girl Thing” actress looks elegant in her gorgeous outfit.

2020: The star looks very different from how she appeared in 1986. By this time, the television personality had admitted to being a fan of plastic surgery. The cosmetic surgery has changed various parts of her body, giving her a new look.

2022: The music manager is still supporting her husband in his career. She is seen looking emotional as Ozzy performs at a big event. The changes on her face are evident as she ages despite using Botox and fillers to look younger.

2022: Here, Sharon is photographed at another event supporting Ozzy. The television personality appears older in her 70s and has embraced natural aging by then, having revealed she will no longer do any further cosmetic surgery.

Minus Botox: Sharon’s appearance today would have been different had she not had Botox done. This AI-generated picture outlines how her jawline would look without this cosmetic surgery.

Minus Facelift: Sharon Osbourne’s facelift procedure changed how she looked. It also affected how she would appear during natural aging. This AI-generated picture shows how her cheeks, nose, and forehead would look without a facelift.

Despite all this, the media personality doesn’t pay attention to people’s comments about her appearance. The star knows how she looks and understands everything that comes with plastic surgery, but she still did it. Now, as she enters her older years, she has let her body age naturally.

Melanie Griffith’s illustrious career in Hollywood, marked by her versatile roles in comedies and dramas alike, has been both a testament to her talent and a battleground for her personal image. Her acclaimed performance in “Working Girl” not only earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress but also cemented her status as a Hollywood icon.

However, beneath the glittering surface of fame and success, Griffith faced the pressures and challenges inherent in the entertainment industry, particularly around the issue of cosmetic surgery. The star’s reflections on the industry reveal a harsh reality where complacency could quickly render an actress “boring” and “easily replaceable.”

More than her professional achievements, her personal life, including stints in rehab and surgeries, became fodder for tabloid sensationalism. This undue focus on her physical appearance, she felt, detracted from her talent and contributions to cinema, expressing a poignant lament over the industry’s superficial valuations, with her lamenting:

“It’s not because I lost my talent or I became deformed. It’s only because I am older. And that’s really sad. It’s something I do feel a passion to fight.”

Revealing the harsh critiques she faced, particularly as she entered her 40s, Griffith highlighted the brutal, judgmental nature of Hollywood, which often forgets women of a certain age. The online criticism regarding her appearance, she shared, was particularly vicious, leading her to undergo corrective procedures to undo the effects of previous surgeries, with her confessing:

“Most people are telling me I look horrible… The tweets I get are really nasty.”

This quest for an acceptable appearance in the public eye, coupled with medical issues, underscored the physical and emotional toll of maintaining an industry-standard image. Despite these challenges, Griffith’s resilience shines through.

Her journey reflects a broader critique of the entertainment industry’s unrealistic beauty standards and the undue pressure they place on women. The star’s experiences with cosmetic surgery, driven by external pressures and personal health issues, highlight the complex interplay between celebrity culture, personal identity, and the pursuit of self-acceptance.

In August 2018, the star shared that she underwent medical surgery to have some skin cancer removed from her nose. The actress’s spokeswoman, Robin Baum, further revealed that the medical procedure was carried out early enough to prevent future complications.

Before the effect of the procedure healed, she would put a Band-Aid on her nose, which turned out fine but ended up looking dark. She also developed a black eye due to the procedure. In January 2023, Griffith was spotted with a large scar on her left cheek.

A tiny part of the scar had a laceration, which looked like it was sewn with stitches and was open and healing. In May, the actress was spotted leaving the Melanie Grant skin care clinic, which specializes in facials and clinical treatments, such as laser facials and depigmentation.

During this appearance, the star had bruising on her hand and left cheek. Her left hand and knuckles were dark purple, and a tiny section near her ear appeared to be discolored. Griffith has always been concerned about her appearance, and as she got older, she believed she was “not that beautiful” and that Hollywood had changed for her.

Still, she worked out every day with a trainer to remain healthy and fit. The movie star also visited stem-cell scientist Dr. Augustinus Bader, in Germany, to boost her appearance. The doctor oxidized her blood with anti-inflammatory peptides to ensure she looked good.

Several surgeries and procedures have altered Griffith’s appearance over the years. AI technology offers a fascinating counterfactual glimpse into what Griffith’s appearance might have been without surgical interventions.

Through AI-generated images, we see a version of Griffith that ages naturally, with each wrinkle and line telling a story of lived experience rather than surgical alteration. These images not only celebrate her natural beauty but also pose critical questions about the societal expectations placed on women, especially in the public eye.

Griffith’s picture on the left was taken around 1975 in her late teens. The photo on the right shows how she would have aged gracefully without surgeries. Her facial structure and wrinkles would have showcased her age naturally.

Below the picture of Griffith on the left was taken when she was in her early 20s in the 80s. The image on the right shows how stunning she would have looked if she had aged without having plastic surgery. Her smile looks glorious, and even the wrinkles show a woman who has aged beautifully.

In the picture below on the left, taken in 1980, Griffith is seen in her early adulthood, while the photo on the right depicts how she would look today in her mid-60s. The actress’s cheekbones, eyes, and nose are well-defined.

The last comparison photo shows Melanie Griffith’s appearance over the years. The one on the right shows how her smile and facial structure would’ve been maintained even as she aged. The image on the left, taken in 1990, has distinct similarities, with that of an aging Griffith. Some of the similarities are in the curve of her sweet smile, the toned and lifted cheeks, soulful eyes, and arched eyebrows.

Griffith’s narrative is a powerful commentary on the demanding standards of beauty and age in Hollywood. It underscores the importance of challenging these norms and embracing natural aging processes. As AI provides a speculative look at a less surgically altered Griffith, it invites us to reflect on the value of authenticity in an industry often criticized for its emphasis on superficial appearances. Through her story, the star advocates for a shift in how we perceive beauty, aging, and the dignity of embracing one’s true self, unaltered by the expectations of others.