Ashley Graham Talks About Plastic Surgery: Model Says She's Never Had It But Isn't Opposed to it in the Future
Plus-size supermodel and body positivity advocate Ashley Graham made headlines this week with a candid discussion about cosmetic procedures, revealing she has never undergone plastic surgery but remains open to certain options as she ages.
During a guest appearance on the March 17, 2026, episode of "TODAY With Jenna & Sheinelle," the 38-year-old model addressed speculation about her appearance while promoting natural skincare alternatives like facial acupuncture. Graham emphasized her commitment to aging gracefully without invasive interventions so far, but she drew a line at future possibilities.
"I'm totally not opposed to getting a facelift in my 50s," Graham told co-hosts Jenna Bush Hager and Sheinelle Jones. "There's options."
The comment came amid a broader conversation about beauty routines and anti-aging strategies. Graham praised facial acupuncture as a non-surgical way to address tension and promote relaxation in facial muscles. "When the needle goes into a place of tension in your face, it'll relax the muscle around it," she explained, highlighting how the treatment helps her maintain a natural look without relying on more invasive methods.
Graham clarified her personal history with cosmetic enhancements, admitting she tried Botox in the past but discontinued it. "I did not like what it did to my face," she said. She has since turned to alternatives, including gua sha tools and professional acupuncture sessions, which she has previously credited with delivering results comparable to injectables.
The model's disclosure aligns with her long-standing advocacy for body acceptance and authenticity. Since rising to fame as the first plus-size model to appear on the cover of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue in 2016, Graham has consistently promoted self-love, stretch marks, postpartum changes and realistic beauty standards. She has shared unfiltered images of her body after giving birth to three sons, celebrating what she calls her "new tummy" and encouraging other mothers to embrace bodies that may never fully "bounce back."
This latest interview reinforces that stance while acknowledging the evolving nature of personal choices in beauty. Graham's openness about past Botox use and future considerations contrasts with rumors and speculation that have occasionally circulated online, including unverified claims about fillers, liposuction or other procedures. No credible evidence supports assertions of major surgical interventions, and Graham has repeatedly denied going "under the knife."
Industry observers note that Graham's comments arrive at a time when discussions about cosmetic procedures have become more normalized among celebrities. Many stars openly discuss Botox, fillers and facelifts as part of routine maintenance, while others champion natural aging. Graham's position — transparent about experimentation but firm on avoiding surgery to date — resonates with fans who value her honesty.
Co-host Sheinelle Jones offered a counterpoint during the segment, stating she is "good" without pursuing facial procedures at present. The exchange highlighted generational and personal differences in approaching aging and beauty pressures in the public eye.
Graham's appearance on "TODAY" follows years of similar candid moments. In 2023, she told Byrdie magazine that gua sha was superior to filler or Botox for skin health, crediting her esthetician Sandra Lanshin Chiu for teaching proper techniques. She has described Chiu as "my Botox," underscoring her preference for non-invasive methods.
As a mother and businesswoman — with ventures including her podcast, books and brand partnerships — Graham continues balancing career demands with family life. Her March 2026 comments reflect a pragmatic view: embracing tools available now while keeping an open mind about future decisions.
Body positivity advocates praised Graham's nuance. By admitting past Botox use without shame and expressing openness to a facelift later, she demonstrates that self-acceptance can coexist with curiosity about enhancements. Critics of rigid beauty standards argue such transparency helps destigmatize conversations around aging and choice.
The model's Instagram remains a platform for unretouched content, from postpartum photos to everyday moments. Followers often commend her for showing stretch marks, cellulite and natural contours, reinforcing messages of inclusivity.
At 38, Graham shows no signs of slowing her advocacy. With millions following her journey, her latest plastic surgery discussion adds another layer to a career built on redefining beauty norms.
Experts say the interview could spark broader dialogue in 2026 about aging in the spotlight, especially as non-surgical treatments like acupuncture gain popularity over traditional injectables.
Whether she opts for a facelift in her 50s remains to be seen. For now, Graham appears content with her current regimen of acupuncture, gua sha and self-acceptance — a combination that has kept her at the forefront of the body positivity movement.
As public figures increasingly share their beauty journeys, Graham's approach stands out: honest, evolving and unapologetically her own.
A post shared by instagram
A post shared by instagram
