Meghan Markle's latest magazine appearance has reignited long-running speculation about cosmetic enhancements, after a Beverly Hills surgeon reviewing her 2025 Harper's Bazaar cover identified what he described as notable changes in the Duchess of Sussex's upper eye area. RadarOnline.com reported that the analysis showed a shift so pronounced that it has stirred debate across celebrity circles and social media, with attention focused on comparisons to Markle's earlier features.
The renewed interest centers on photographs spanning 2019 to 2025, which Dr. Raffi Hovsepian, a triple-board-certified plastic surgeon, examined side-by-side with her 2022 feature for The Cut. He pointed to what he called a reduction in the "heaviness of her upper lids" and a visible restructuring of the skin around the eyes. According to RadarOnline.com, Dr. Hovsepian observed that her "upper eyelid crease appears more defined, higher, and cleaner, while the skin between the crease and brow looks tighter and less hooded," a change he said aligns with common outcomes of upper blepharoplasty.
The surgeon emphasized that the updated look strongly matches the aesthetic patterns of surgical rejuvenation. He told RadarOnline.com that Markle's latest images show a "very consistent" resemblance to results typically produced through "upper blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), a less-invasive 'upper eyelid skin pinch technique', and/or a conservative fat pad reduction." Dr. Hovsepian added that the new photographs show "a noticeably more lifted, defined, and open upper eyelid area compared to her 2022 images," noting that the "tighter skin, higher crease, and reduction in lateral hooding" correspond to medically recognized markers of eyelid transformation.
He described the cumulative effect as distinctly polished. "Her eye shape now appears brighter, more sculpted, and more refreshed, which is why the difference is so visible when compared to earlier years," Dr. Hovsepian said. He also remarked that "There are also midface refinements, smoother under-eye transitions, and improved brow support that collectively enhance her overall look. These changes are aesthetic, cohesive, and professionally executed-but undeniably noticeable when placed side-by-side."
Observers say Markle's minimal-makeup styling in the 2025 Harper's Bazaar shoot may have amplified the visibility of structural changes around her eyes, especially as she has recently reduced her use of false eyelashes. The pared-down aesthetic contrasted sharply with previous appearances and offered a rare, unembellished view of her facial features.
Speculation about Markle's potential cosmetic procedures predates her marriage into the British royal family and has long included allegations of rhinoplasty and breast enhancements early in her career. The Duchess, however, has publicly dismissed the chatter. In a 2015 interview with Porter magazine, she said, "I don't pay a lot of attention, frankly," when asked about the persistent rumors.
More recent appearances have added fuel to the discussion. Markle appeared nearly makeup-free during a 2025 podcast conversation with her friend Jamie Kern Lima, becoming emotional while discussing letters she writes to her children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. "That's making me emotional for them to be able to look back and go, 'Oh my gosh, she has loved us so much,'" she said, adding moments later, "Oh, I wasn't expecting that one," and, "This is why it's so nice not to have makeup on."
