Kelly Ripa has made a triumphant return to her morning talk show, Live with Kelly and Mark, after a six-week hiatus to recover from gum graft surgery. The 55-year-old television personality appeared with her husband and co-host, Mark Consuelos, on September 8, expressing her relief and newfound health following the procedure.
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Speaking to PEOPLE after her return, Ripa shared her relief that the surgery was successful, stating, “I’m so much better. It was definitely necessary. I delayed it for five years, thinking I would wait until I retire, but eventually my dentist insisted it was time.” The surgery had left her with significant discomfort and temporarily rendered her unable to speak.
During her time away from the show, Ripa did manage to find some time for leisure, although she admitted that holidaying with stitches in her mouth was “a little strange.” Her husband, Consuelos, provided some light-hearted humour about her recovery, stating, “She doesn’t follow instructions very well.” Ripa, however, admitted to feeling a bit rebellious, stating, “I was talking the whole time,” despite her dentist’s admonition to remain silent during the healing process.
Ripa’s playful attitude persisted as she recalled some of the humorous moments that arose post-surgery. “What was funny, a few of my producers said, ‘You just need to take the cotton out from under your lower lip.’ And I was like, ‘There is no cotton. That is just swelling, which is why I’m not at work today,’” she recalled.
The need for the gum graft surgery stemmed from Ripa’s history of diligent dental care, which included frequent brushing and flossing. In fact, Consuelos highlighted that Ripa has a notorious reputation for her rigorous dental hygiene routine, often taking up to five minutes just to brush her teeth. Ripa remarked, “I’m getting better. I understand the importance of dental hygiene—I host a morning show, after all!”
Her absence from the show was notable, during which Consuelos updated viewers on Ripa’s recovery, revealing that the surgery was known to be quite painful. “She famously doesn’t feel pain,” Consuelos stated during a July 27 broadcast, noting that while Ripa typically avoids using anaesthetic at the dentist, this procedure was different, indicating the severity of her condition.
In a previous episode, Consuelos had informed viewers of Ripa’s condition, sharing, “Kelly sends her love… she had a gum graft surgery.” His comments drew an outpouring of support from fans, who reached out to express their concern and well wishes during her absence.
Gum graft surgery is a standard procedure designed to address issues such as receding gums, which can expose tooth roots and lead to increased sensitivity or dental problems. According to information from the Cleveland Clinic, this surgical intervention aims to improve both dental health and aesthetic appearance.
Following her surgery, Ripa’s doctor specified that she should avoid speaking for an extended period, only consuming soft foods and refraining from using straws. Consuelos shared updates on her progress, mentioning that she was beginning to speak in limited capacity by late July.
Throughout her recovery, Ripa kept her spirits high, and upon her return to the show, she was greeted with enthusiasm. Her resilience and humour, coupled with Consuelos’ supportive presence, created a warm atmosphere as the couple took to the stage once again.
As Live with Kelly and Mark continues to air weekdays, fans can catch Ripa and Consuelos back in their element, bringing joy and entertainment to their audience once more. Ripa’s commitment to health and her well-being serves as an inspiration, proving that even in facing health challenges, a positive outlook can shine through.