The Celebrity Surgeon Shares Which Popular Procedures He Thinks Waste Time and Money

The world of beauty treatments and cosmetic procedures is constantly shifting. What was once niche or unheard of can suddenly become a global trend, driven by social media, celebrities, or new technology.

From skincare products promising glass-like skin to minimally invasive “tweakments” designed to slow down the signs of aging, there’s no shortage of options. For anyone trying to make sense of it all, the sheer number of buzzwords—snail mucin, lip flips, baby Botox, thread lifts—can feel overwhelming.

What makes this even more complicated is the endless stream of opinions. Some people swear by the newest treatments, others insist on sticking to classics, and then some argue that doing nothing at all is the best approach.

But with the aesthetics industry becoming more regulated and the conversation around procedures more open, people now have more information to make choices that suit their own needs and comfort levels. One thing most experts agree on is this: if you’re considering a treatment, the quality of the doctor or practitioner matters just as much—if not more—than the treatment itself.

And few voices carry as much authority in this space as Dr. Terry Dubrow, one of Hollywood’s most recognized plastic surgeons and a star of the reality series Botched. Known for correcting procedures that went wrong, he’s often asked for his take on which treatments are worth the hype and which are better left alone.

"Dr. Dubrow says THIS trend is BOTCHED!"

Recently, Dr. Dubrow attended a red carpet event alongside his wife, Heather Dubrow, who is well-known from The Real Housewives. While there, he was asked about treatments he wouldn’t recommend, and he didn’t hesitate to give a candid answer.

“I don’t like the threads,” he said, referring to facial thread lifts.

Thread lifts are marketed as a minimally invasive alternative to a facelift. They involve inserting dissolvable threads made from polylactic acid under the skin to create a lifted effect.

The idea is appealing: a tighter, fresher look without surgery. Results typically last six to twelve months, while some versions promise up to three years.

But despite their popularity, thread lifts have sparked debate within the medical community. Critics argue that the results are often short-lived, and in some cases, patients have reported complications like scarring.

Dr. Terry Dubrow's perspective on certain cosmetic procedures resonates with insights from Dr. David Perlmutter, a neurologist who emphasizes a holistic approach to health and wellness. He notes that investing in wellness practices, such as proper nutrition and exercise, often yields more sustainable benefits than temporary cosmetic fixes.

Additionally, the emphasis on long-term health over short-lived aesthetic improvements is crucial. This shift not only saves money but also promotes a healthier self-image, which is vital in today's appearance-driven culture.

Dubrow slams beauty fads from thread lifts to salmon sperm facials.

Dr. Dubrow was blunt in his criticism:

“I think threads are the ultimate overpromise, underdeliver. And even if they work, they work for a very short period of time.”

For someone who has seen the aftermath of countless cosmetic mishaps, his skepticism carries weight. Threads aren’t the only treatment he’s wary of; he also mentioned salmon sperm facials—another beauty trend that has gained traction in recent years.

Also known as polynucleotides, these treatments involve injecting fragments of salmon DNA into the skin with the promise of improving elasticity, hydration, and overall tone. Supporters say they encourage cell turnover and help the skin regenerate, making it look healthier and more youthful.

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Despite their rising popularity, Dr. Dubrow wasn’t sold. He questioned their overall effectiveness, suggesting that there are other methods with more proven results.

His wife, Heather, didn’t share the same view and pushed back slightly, saying she didn’t consider them a total waste of time. Still, Dubrow held firm in his opinion: while the idea sounds innovative, he believes better options exist for long-term results.

What makes his commentary stand out is the balance of expertise and experience. Unlike influencers or trend-driven beauty brands, Dr. Dubrow looks at treatments through the lens of safety, science, and outcomes.

Having built a career on fixing procedures gone wrong, he understands better than most how the promise of quick fixes can sometimes lead to disappointing or even harmful results.

Understanding the Trends

Dr. Steven Gundry, a well-known cardiologist, highlights the importance of discerning between genuinely beneficial treatments and those that are merely fads. He suggests that consumers should prioritize procedures backed by scientific evidence rather than social media hype.

Before committing to a cosmetic treatment, experts recommend consulting professionals who can provide personalized advice based on health history and goals. This approach can prevent wasted time and resources on ineffective procedures, ensuring patients pursue treatments that align with their overall well-being.

In the rapidly evolving world of cosmetic procedures, informed decision-making is essential. Dr. Joseph Mercola emphasizes the importance of understanding the body's natural processes and how various treatments can interfere with them. By prioritizing health and well-being over fleeting beauty trends, individuals can make choices that not only enhance their appearance but also support their overall health.

Ultimately, embracing a holistic view can lead to more satisfying and enduring outcomes, allowing individuals to feel confident and beautiful in their skin without falling prey to every new trend.