a heated debate

Antonela Roccuzzo sets the record straight on Lionel Messi’s alleged plastic surgery


The Rosario native publicly responded to the allegations


© GC Images
Shirley GomezSenior Writer
JUNE 2, 2026 6:30 PM EDT

Speculation about Lionel Messi's appearance recently sparked a heated debate on social media after an Argentine facial harmonization specialist claimed the football icon had undergone several cosmetic procedures over the years. However, the rumors were quickly addressed by his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo.

The Rosario native publicly responded to the allegations, firmly denying that the World Cup champion has ever had facial plastic surgery.

Lionel Messi in August 23, 2008, in Beijing, China. © Getty Images
Lionel Messi in August 23, 2008, in Beijing, China.

Cosmetic Surgery Claims About Lionel Messi Go Viral

The controversy began when Argentine doctor Celeste Nardadone, who specializes in facial harmonization, shared a video analysis on Instagram examining Messi's facial features throughout different stages of his life and career.

In the video, Nardadone compared older and more recent photographs of the Argentine superstar. She suggested that noticeable changes in his appearance could be the result of multiple aesthetic procedures.

According to the specialist, Messi may have undergone “Rhinoplasty (nose surgery),” “chin enhancement with hyaluronic acid fillers, “Botox treatments,” “dental veneers and prosthetics,” “Otoplasty (ear reshaping surgery),” “Cheek fillers,” and “blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery).”

Media Image© Getty Images
Media Image© Getty Images

The doctor argued that these procedures could explain differences in Messi's facial structure, smile, and overall appearance compared to his younger years.

Antonela Roccuzzo Responds Directly

Among the thousands of comments left on the post, one stood out immediately. Antonela Roccuzzo personally responded to the video and dismissed the analysis in a direct and unmistakable way. "You didn't get a single thing right!" she wrote.

She then addressed the rumors point by point, making it clear that Messi has never undergone facial surgery. "He has never had surgery, hahaha. And the teeth thing is called Invisalign," Antonela added.

Invisalign Explains Messi's Smile Transformation

One of the most frequently cited changes in Messi's appearance over the years has been his smile. While the specialist suggested veneers or dental prosthetics may have been responsible, Antonela explained that the football legend simply used Invisalign treatment.

Messi and Antonela Roccuzzo step out in style ahead of the 2026 World Cup© Courtesy
Antonela and Messi enjoyed a stylish date in Miami.

Invisalign is an orthodontic system that uses transparent, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth without traditional metal braces. The treatment has become increasingly popular among athletes, celebrities, and professionals because it offers a discreet way to improve dental alignment.

According to Antonela, this orthodontic treatment is the reason behind any visible changes in Messi's smile rather than cosmetic dental procedures.

Fans Rally Behind Messi and Antonela

Following Antonela's response, many users sided with the couple and criticized the assumptions made in the video. Supporters pointed out that natural aging, weight fluctuations, improved grooming, better skincare, professional photography, and changes in dental alignment can significantly alter a person's appearance over time without the need for surgery.

Messi and Antonela have one of the most admired relationships of all.© Getty Images
Messi and Antonela have one of the most admired relationships of all.

Others praised Antonela for addressing the claims directly instead of allowing speculation to continue unchecked.

Doctor Responds After Antonela's Comment

After noticing Antonela's public denial, Nardadone replied respectfully and defended her original analysis. The specialist explained that her observations were intended as a professional assessment and were made with what she described as seriousness and respect.

She thanked Antonela for engaging with the discussion and said her goal was to help educate people about aesthetic treatments that are available today. The doctor responded, saying that her analysis had been conducted with “absolute seriousness and respect.” 

Antonela Roccuzzo at Haute Living on November 11, 2024© Getty Images for Haute Living
Antonela Roccuzzo shut down claims that Lionel Messi had facial plastic surgery, revealing the only cosmetic-related treatment he received was Invisalign.

She also argued that “there is a lot of prejudice, and many people don’t want to reveal their secrets. I understand that. I see it every day in my practice. Sending my regards and complete admiration, always.”