Conspiracy theories suggesting that Melania Trump used a body double on election day have been debunked by experts, who point to cosmetic procedures as the likely cause of her altered appearance.
The rumors began after the First Lady, 54, was spotted wearing oversized sunglasses indoors during a public appearance at the polls, leading to online speculation that she was concealing recent cosmetic work or possibly hiding her identity. The hashtag #FakeMelania quickly gained traction on social media, with users suggesting that a body double might have replaced her.
“Why is Trump using a quite bad #FakeMelania stand-in with gigantic shades at the polling station? LOL Total madness!” one user tweeted. Others added fuel to the fire, commenting on her appearance and suggesting it was not the same Melania, citing her sunglasses, smile, and facial features.
However, plastic surgeons have offered alternative explanations, arguing that Melania’s appearance could be attributed to non-invasive cosmetic procedures rather than any drastic changes or a body double.
Dr. Dennis Schimpf, a cosmetic plastic surgeon from South Carolina, suggested that Melania may have undergone additional filler treatments ahead of the election, anticipating heightened media scrutiny. Fillers, commonly used to enhance cheek volume and define the jawline, are popular among celebrities seeking a youthful, refreshed look without resorting to surgery.
Dr. Thomas Barnes, a Newport Beach-based surgeon, weighed in, explaining that Melania’s appearance could simply be the result of stress. “She just looked plain tired,” Dr. Barnes remarked, noting that the high-pressure campaign period, with its intense travel and public engagements, can take a toll on one’s appearance.
Dr. Gary Motykie, a well-known plastic surgeon from West Hollywood, has previously speculated that Melania’s changes may be due to nose surgery and filler treatments, potentially amounting to a $50,000 makeover. “I have noticed a change in her nose,” Dr. Motykie said, pointing out that noses typically grow larger with age, but hers appeared more defined. He also speculated that she may be using Botox and fillers to maintain her appearance.
Despite her past claims of being “all natural,” when she spoke in 2016, Melania’s more recent appearance has raised questions. At the time, she had firmly denied using cosmetic procedures, stating, “I didn’t make any changes… I’m against Botox, I’m against injections; I think it’s damaging your face, damaging your nerves.”
Though some online users have poked fun at Melania’s alleged cosmetic work, others have defended her right to maintain her appearance, given the pressure on public figures to maintain youthfulness. One user remarked, “There’s no denying she’s always been a beautiful woman… but please, who is she trying to kid by saying she hasn’t had any work done?”
However, not all reactions have been positive. Some have criticized her appearance, with one user commenting that “the work on her face is awful” and another stating that “her skin is so lifted that soon we won’t be able to see her eyes.”
While conspiracy theories may continue to circulate, experts agree that Melania Trump’s appearance is likely the result of routine cosmetic maintenance, not a body double.
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