The Rise of the 'Mar-a-Lago Face'
Plastic surgeons in Washington D.C. are witnessing a remarkable trend, reporting a significant surge in patients seeking a specific, bold cosmetic look since Donald Trump's return to the White House in January. This new aesthetic, dubbed 'Mar-a-Lago face', marks a distinct departure from the subtle, natural-looking procedures that were once the gold standard.
What Defines the Aesthetic?
The 'Mar-a-Lago face' is characterised by more obvious and pronounced enhancements, inspired by the maximalist style associated with Donald Trump and his inner circle in Palm Beach. Key features patients are requesting include prominent lip fillers, exceptionally taut foreheads, and noticeably plump cheeks. Popular treatments to achieve this look involve extensive use of lip fillers and wrinkle-smoothing injections.
However, this trend is not without its critics. Some surgeons, like Dr Anita Kulkarni, have made the decision to decline clients who specifically ask for this 'more done look'. Their reasons range from concerns over patient safety to a fundamental disagreement with the aesthetic philosophy behind such obvious alterations.
A Political and Gendered Phenomenon
The trend appears to be particularly prevalent among Republican political clients. There is a notable gender dimension to the requests, with male patients often seeking procedures that aim to make them appear 'younger' and 'more virile'. This wave of requests, first reported on Wednesday, 12 November 2025, highlights a fascinating intersection of politics, personal image, and cosmetic science in the American capital.
