Former Model, 65, Gets Dramatic Facelift. She Proudly Walked Down the Aisle at Her Wedding Just 2 Months Later (Exclusive)

**Retired Model Laurie Embraces Transformation with Expert Plastic Surgery Ahead of Wedding**

Laurie, a talented artist and former model, has recently opened up about her journey into the world of plastic surgery. At 65 years of age, she felt that her outward appearance did not reflect her vibrant spirit and energy. In light of an upcoming wedding, she made the decision to undergo a facelift, a choice which she discussed extensively with her surgeon, Dr. Amit Arunkumar, based in San Francisco.

Speaking to PEOPLE, Laurie shared her initial concerns and thought process leading up to the surgery. Thanks to this deliberation, she expressed no hesitation about going under the knife. Reflecting on her decision, she said, “I’m a yigini, I eat well, and I just feel so good. My face was just not reflecting my body or my inner spirit.” This revelation set the stage for her desire to achieve a look that resonated with her inner vitality.

Laurie’s extensive research into various plastic surgeons across the United States eventually led her to Dr. Arunkumar, who enjoys a friendly rapport with his patients and is affectionately called “Dr. A.” He performed a comprehensive procedure that included a deep plane facelift, neck lift, brow reset, and fat transfer. “We noticed some heaviness and descent in her brow area,” Dr. Arunkumar explained. The brow reset addressed the upper part of her face while the facelift worked on the lower segments, aiming to provide a harmonious and youthful appearance.

Notably, Dr. Arunkumar revealed that he was unaware of Laurie’s imminent wedding plans when she committed to the surgery. However, he commended her impressive recovery following the procedure. Although he usually advises patients to allow for a three to four-month recovery period prior to significant events, Laurie surprised him by feeling significantly ready just two months post-surgery.

“I was sort of surprised, but happy to see that she was ready at two months,” Dr. Arunkumar remarked, adding, “I’m often more cautious about telling people to wait longer.” He emphasised the importance of allowing the body ample time to recover, as well as listening to one’s own physical cues during the healing process. Remarkably, Laurie returned to work merely days after her surgery, sporting a mask to conceal the initial swelling from her colleagues.

Laurie recounted her experience of returning to work, stating, “My guys didn’t notice… I would get tired because I had been under general anaesthesia, so I could only be up for a little bit. But I wasn’t in a lot of pain at all.” This highlights her smooth transition from post-operative recovery back into her professional life, something that many prospective surgery patients may find encouraging.

In terms of how she feels about her results, Laurie expressed her satisfaction with the natural look achieved through the surgery. “It looks like my face but just refreshed,” she explained, with confidence in the work done. Her aim was not to look significantly younger but rather to enhance her features to reflect a healthier, more vibrant appearance. “I don’t look like I’m 25, which I don’t want to,” she noted, pleased with the chiselled and fresh look she has acquired.

The response from those within Laurie’s social circle has been overwhelmingly positive. Following her transformation, compliments have poured in from friends and family, including her new husband, to whom she married just two months after the surgery. Laurie admitted that she still finds it hard to believe she went through with the operation but is ultimately grateful for her decision. “I’m very grateful that I did it. Really.”

Laurie’s journey underscores the evolving perceptions of plastic surgery, particularly within ageing communities. The confidence boost and renewed sense of self-worth that can stem from positive cosmetic changes is evident in her testimony. As she navigates this new chapter in her life, Laurie hopes that her story will resonate with others who may also be considering similar changes, or simply wishing to embrace their own beauty at any age.