At a Glance
- Troye Sivan confronts a doctor who publicly suggested he need filler.
- The singer replies on Substack, later noting the doctor apologized.
- Sivan discusses aging, body image, and the high cost of cosmetic work.
- Why it matters: It highlights the pressure artists face from social-media medical advice.
Troye Sivan, the 30-year-old Australian singer-songwriter, has been in the spotlight for both his music and his candid discussions about body image. When a popular aesthetic doctor publicly suggested that the pop star needed dermal filler, Sivan took to his Substack to voice his frustration and share his perspective on aging, cosmetic procedures, and the influence of social media.
The Instagram Reel and Doctor’s Recommendation
On Jan. 21, Sivan posted a lengthy response on Substack to an Instagram Reel that had gone viral. In the clip, the aesthetic doctor commented that the singer “does appear a bit more older looking” and even referenced the phrase “twink death.” The doctor added that if Sivan were a patient, he would recommend dermal filler and a series of skin treatments involving peels or lasers.
Sivan’s initial reaction was sharp: “What good is money and modern medicine if not to fix all of these flaws that this random sicko f—o plastic surgeon told me I have in an Instagram Reel?” He later clarified that the doctor had deleted the video and sent a thoughtful apology, and that there were “no hard feelings.”
Aging, Body Image, and Self-Acceptance
Sivan has long spoken about the tension between feeling older in a positive way and the pressure to look a certain way. He joked that he “oscillates constantly between feeling like I’m aging in a good way, getting ‘sexier’ with time, and then feeling like Gollum’s very close pop-singing relative.” The singer also noted that he has historically been “skinny” and “twinky,” but that he no longer identifies with those labels.
In a candid post, Sivan declared, “I am body positive to my core and believe that every body is beautiful. I’m grateful for mine (and yours, sexy), and that it allows me to do all the things that I want to, free of pain and illness.” He added that he has recently worked on his fitness and diet to support his well-being.
The Cost and Risks of Cosmetic Procedures
Sivan has not shied away from discussing the financial and health implications of cosmetic work. He revealed that he was quoted $3,000 for a consultation about a fat-transfer procedure to the under-eye area. He also admitted that he has considered procedures but remains wary of the potential for negative outcomes.
The singer expressed frustration with the “red carpet” expectations: “I’ve always hated red carpet photos. I think I’ve felt like I looked good in the photos maybe twice,” he said, referencing a photo the doctor used in the Instagram Reel.
Social Media’s Role in Shaping Perception
Sivan’s story underscores how algorithms can amplify insecurities. He described how the doctor’s unsolicited advice triggered a cascade of ads for cosmetic treatments and products. “My all-knowing, eternally and deeply evil algorithm saw the opportunity in this moment of vulnerability,” he wrote, noting that he eventually hit the “not interested” button multiple times.
The singer also highlighted the broader issue of corporate greed and addictive technology: “It’s us vs species-endingly-insatiable corporate greed, with access to addictive brainwashing technology.” He concluded that he remains patient with himself and respectful of both his own choices and those of others.
Past Statements on Body Positivity
Sivan’s openness about body image isn’t new. In 2023, after posting a semi-nude image, he responded to criticism by saying, “I like my body and I think that makes some people uncomfortable.” He added, “Don’t ask me about this in interviews. I don’t want to talk about it unless I want to talk about it.”
These remarks demonstrate a consistent pattern: Sivan is unafraid to confront criticism and to advocate for self-acceptance.
Conclusion
Troye Sivan’s response to a public doctor’s cosmetic recommendation illustrates the complex relationship between celebrity, medical advice, and social media. By sharing his thoughts on aging, body positivity, and the high cost of procedures, he invites fans and the broader public to reflect on the pressures that shape self-image in the digital age.
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Key Takeaways
- Sivan publicly challenged a doctor’s unsolicited cosmetic advice.
- He balanced his critique with a broader discussion of body positivity.
- The incident highlights the influence of algorithms on self-image.
- Sivan remains cautious about the financial and health risks of cosmetic work.
