Supermodels and actresses: Victims of unsuccessful plastic surgery

Undergoing surgery is not always driven by medical necessity. In many cases, individuals—especially celebrities constantly in the public eye—choose cosmetic procedures in an attempt to alter or enhance their appearance. Unfortunately, these transformations do not always yield the desired results and can lead to irreversible damage. Some even make global lists of plastic surgery gone wrong, which are frequently updated. This article highlights several high-profile women whose careers and lives were significantly affected by failed cosmetic procedures.

American supermodel, TV host, and Actress Janice Dickinson

Janice Dickinson, who once proclaimed herself “the world’s first supermodel,” was widely admired for her beauty during the 1970s and 1980s. Today, however, little remains of her once-iconic face.

She underwent her first cosmetic surgery at the age of 33 and has since had multiple procedures, including tummy tucks, body contouring, and eyelid lifts. Over the years, Dickinson became entangled in a cycle of surgical enhancements, resulting in a dramatic change to her appearance. Her natural beauty, once her trademark, is now a distant memory.

South Korean model Hang Myoku

Former model Hang Myoku began her journey with plastic surgery at the age of 28. Over time, she became addicted to the procedures, often traveling abroad—particularly to Japan—for additional operations.

When doctors eventually refused to operate on her further, Hang resorted to extreme measures. She purchased silicone illegally and injected it into her own face. When that supply ran out, she turned to using cooking oil. The results were devastating, leaving her face severely disfigured.

Swiss businesswoman Jocelyn Wildenstein

Jocelyn Wildenstein, a billionaire socialite, became widely known for her extensive facial surgeries and her feline-like appearance. Once a naturally beautiful woman, Wildenstein underwent numerous procedures in an effort to win back the affection of her unfaithful husband.

Reports indicate she spent nearly \$4 million on plastic surgery. Despite her efforts, the relationship deteriorated further, culminating in a violent incident in which she reportedly attacked her husband with scissors. She was later arrested. Wildenstein passed away on the final day of 2024 at the age of 84 due to a pulmonary embolism.

She is believed to have undergone at least seven facelifts, along with eyebrow and eyelid lifts, cheek and chin implants, lip reshaping, and procedures to give her eyes a “cat-like” appearance.

American actress Kim Novak

Kim Novak, once hailed as a screen siren and known for her roles in films directed by Alfred Hitchcock, shocked fans at the 2014 Academy Awards with her altered appearance. Viewers were startled to see how drastically her face had changed, the result of repeated cosmetic interventions.

Now in her 80s, Novak looks markedly different from the natural beauty who once captivated audiences. It is widely believed that she has been the subject of several unsuccessful surgical procedures.

American TV presenter and soap opera star Joan Van Ark

Joan Van Ark was a popular and admired television star in the 1980s, known for her roles in long-running soap operas. In recent years, however, her appearance has changed significantly. Her facial structure appears dramatically altered, leading to widespread speculation about plastic surgery. Van Ark has chosen not to publicly address these changes, but the transformation has not gone unnoticed by fans and media alike.

American social activist, astrologer, and actress Jacqueline Stallone

Jacqueline Stallone, mother of actor and producer Sylvester Stallone, was well known for her passion for cosmetic procedures. Throughout her life, she underwent multiple surgeries, including rhinoplasty, facelifts, lip enhancements, and repeated eyelid operations.

Over time, these alterations left her facial features nearly unrecognizable from her younger years. Stallone was known for her candid and humorous attitude, once joking that she “looked like a squirrel with a nut hidden in her cheek.”

Despite the effects of surgery, Jacqueline maintained a disciplined lifestyle well into old age. She followed a strict diet, avoided alcohol, and remained physically active. She passed away a few years ago at the age of 98, remembered as a vibrant and unconventional personality.