20 Beauty Treatments and Surgeries Few People Know Exist
The saying “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder” means that everyone has their own idea of what is beautiful. This applies to how we look as well. Beauty standards are always changing, and while some might match what you like, others may not appeal to you.
What you might think is unattractive could be someone else’s ideal, and they might go to great lengths, even surgery, to achieve it. In today’s world, the number of cosmetic procedures available is huge—some of which you may not even know about. That’s what this list is here to explore. Let’s take a look at some rare cosmetic surgeries and learn more!
#1
That’s a great point! Many people don’t realize that sagging eyelids, which can actually affect vision, may qualify for insurance coverage if they cause functional issues. It’s often seen as a cosmetic concern, but when it starts impairing vision, it can be considered medically necessary to address. Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, can help not only improve appearance but also restore proper vision, and insurance might cover the procedure if certain criteria are met.
#2
Facial reanimation surgery is performed after facial paralysis to restore some movement to the face. The procedure combines nerve transfers and muscle transfers to help bring back function, like the ability to close the eyelids or smile. This surgery is done for both cosmetic and practical reasons, improving appearance and making everyday tasks, like blinking or eating, easier. It’s a complex procedure aimed at enhancing quality of life by restoring natural facial movements.
#3
It’s now easier than ever to get lens replacement surgery instead of traditional laser eye surgery. This procedure involves replacing the natural lens of the eye with an artificial one to correct vision. It’s actually the same procedure used in cataract surgery, but many people don’t realize it’s an option for vision correction, even if they don’t have cataracts. The benefit is that it can treat a range of vision problems, and for some, it might even be a better choice than laser surgery.
#4
Botox for migraines is a game-changer that many people with chronic headaches don’t know about. I’ve had migraines for 28 years, since 7th grade, and have seen countless neurologists and specialists. It wasn’t until last November that a new neurologist suggested Botox as an option, instead of just prescribing more medication. The Botox is injected into the head and neck areas, essentially paralyzing the nerves that cause the migraine pain. While it’s not a permanent fix, it lasts for several months and can really help reduce migraine frequency and intensity. It’s definitely worth considering if you’re someone who’s been struggling with migraines for a long time!
#5
Forehead reduction surgery is exactly what it sounds like—reducing the size of the forehead. The procedure involves removing a small strip of skin from the forehead and then pulling the scalp down to make the forehead appear shorter. The scar is hidden in the hairline, so it’s not noticeable once healed. A popular TikTok influencer recently got the surgery, and while it looked a bit dramatic at first, now that it’s healed, you wouldn’t even notice the scar. It’s becoming more common for people who want to alter their facial proportions.
#6
Nail prosthetics are a great solution for anyone who loses or severely damages a nail. A few years ago, I crushed one of my fingers while putting a nail into the wall. Getting a prosthetic nail was an easy fix, and it looked totally natural.
Edit – While the nail was an easy fix, the finger itself required a bit more work. It wasn’t as simple as just replacing the nail, but it was definitely worth it to get things back to normal. Nail prosthetics are a great option for restoring both function and appearance!
#7
Did you know you can reduce the size of your earlobes? Some people think they have big ears, but often it’s just the size of the earlobes giving that impression. The procedure to reduce earlobe size is pretty simple, and it can make a big difference in how you feel about your appearance. It’s a quick fix that can really improve confidence for those who’ve always been self-conscious about their ears!
#8
For those with a sunken chest, also known as pectus excavatum, there are actually several types of procedures that can help raise the chest and create a more typical appearance. These surgeries can make a significant difference in both the physical look and the individual’s self-esteem. It’s a condition that can be treated with different techniques, from minimally invasive options to more traditional surgeries, all designed to correct the chest’s shape and improve overall chest wall function.
#9
Gum reduction surgery is a great option for those with a gummy smile, especially if your teeth are actually regular-sized but hidden under excess gum tissue. A few years ago, I had the procedure done, and I honestly wish I had done it sooner. I used to feel self-conscious about my smile, but now I love it and feel so much more confident. It’s a relatively simple procedure that can make a huge difference in the way you feel about your smile!
#10
Abdominoplasty, commonly known as a “tummy tuck,” can be a functional reconstruction for women who experience abdominal separation after multiple childbirths. Many women believe they just have to live with reduced strength, flexibility, functionality, and constant pain, especially in the back, when their abdominal muscles don’t rejoin after pregnancy.
While it’s a tough surgery, when performed by a highly skilled surgeon, it can truly change lives. Unfortunately, it’s not suitable for everyone with abdominal separation, it’s expensive, and it’s typically not covered by insurance since it’s still classified as a cosmetic procedure (which is a bit frustrating). But for many women, it’s a total game changer in terms of both function and confidence.
#11
Yes, it’s true! Some men are now opting for temple implants to make their head shape appear more masculine. The procedure involves adding volume to the temples to create a fuller, more defined look that is often associated with a more angular, masculine face. It’s become a growing trend as people are seeking subtle enhancements to their facial structure, and it can make a noticeable difference in the overall balance and appearance of the face. It’s a relatively quick and effective way to achieve the desired look without undergoing more invasive surgeries.
#12
Yes, transoral thyroid surgery is a groundbreaking procedure that allows thyroid surgery to be performed without leaving a visible scar on the neck. Instead of making an incision on the neck, surgeons access the thyroid through the mouth. This method leaves no external scars, which is a big plus for many people who are concerned about scarring. While it’s not suitable for all cases, it’s a great option for those who need thyroid surgery but want to avoid a visible mark on their neck. It’s amazing how far technology has come in making procedures less invasive and more aesthetic!
#13
#14
Belly button removal creates a sleek, smooth stomach with clean, seamless lines.
#15
Not necessarily a surgery, but definitely a body mod, so I’ll post it here.
Some African and Asian cultures use smooth metal rings around the neck to create the illusion of elongation. The Padaung women of Myanmar, for example, achieve this by gradually adding more rings over the years. This process compresses the collarbones and ribcage while pulling a few thoracic vertebrae into the neck—pretty metal (literally).
#16
Non-surgical blepharoplasty (eyelid treatment) can help even out skin tone and reduce dark circles.
It typically involves injectable fillers placed under the skin where dark circles form. Many people develop dark circles due to thinning skin as they age—losing volume in the skin and fat under the eyes allows blood vessels to show through, creating a darker appearance.
A quick filler injection can correct this, but for a more permanent fix, fat can be repositioned under the eyelid skin. On the flip side, surgical options exist to remove sagging skin or eye bags for a refreshed look.
#17
You can have your feet narrowed or adjusted for a more aesthetically pleasing look—it’s often referred to as the Cinderella procedure.
This cosmetic foot surgery can involve slimming the feet, adjusting toe length, or even removing bunions to fit better into high heels or achieve a more refined shape.
#18
Blue eye laser surgery is a procedure that permanently transforms brown eyes into blue.
The laser works by removing the top layer of melanin from the iris, gradually revealing the blue color underneath. Since brown eyes have a higher concentration of melanin, once it’s removed, the lighter blue shade becomes visible. The process is irreversible and takes a few weeks for the full effect to show.
#19
Elf ear modification is a body mod that reshapes the ears to have a pointed, elven-like appearance.
This is typically done through surgical procedures where the top of the ear is cut, reshaped, and stitched together to form a pointed tip. Some people get it for a fantasy-inspired look, while others like the sharper, more defined ear shape. The procedure is permanent and can vary in style depending on personal preference.
#20
Vocal feminization surgery alters the pitch and resonance of the voice to create a more traditionally feminine sound.
Recovery can be intense—patients must remain completely silent for at least a month (no speaking, coughing, or even clearing the throat) to avoid complications. While the surgery can be highly effective, it’s generally only recommended for those who can’t achieve their desired voice through speech therapy, due to the demanding healing process.
