Antonela Roccuzzo Denies Lionel Messi Plastic Surgery Rumors
Antonela Roccuzzo has denied claims that soccer star Lionel Messi underwent facial plastic surgery, attributing his updated appearance to Invisalign. According to Roccuzzo, the athlete used the invisible orthodontic system to align his teeth, a process that can naturally alter the lower facial structure and chin projection without surgical intervention.
The dispute began on Instagram when Dr. Celeste Nardanone, a facial harmonization specialist, posted a video analyzing Messi’s face. Nardanone questioned if the public believed national team players avoided facial retouching, specifically suggesting Messi had procedures to achieve a more marked jaw, a projected chin, and a perfect smile.
Roccuzzo responded publicly to the doctor’s claims, stating, “No pegaste una! Jamás se hizo una cirugía Jajaja y lo de los dientes se llama invisalign.”
How does Invisalign work for elite athletes?
Invisalign is a system of invisible orthodontics that uses a series of custom-made, transparent, and removable aligners. These aligners are constructed from a “smart” thermoplastic material that applies constant, gentle force to move teeth into the desired position.

The system offers several advantages for high-performance athletes. Because the aligners are transparent, they remain nearly imperceptible. They are also removable, which allows for easier brushing and flossing to prevent plaque buildup.
Safety is a primary factor for athletes exposed to constant physical contact. According to the source, the absence of metal wires or brackets eliminates the risk of punctures or breakages during a game, making it a viable option for players like Messi.
Why does orthodontics change the shape of the face?
Correcting the alignment of teeth can create a “lifting effect” that mimics the results of facial harmonization. This occurs because the treatment addresses the bite and the underlying bone structure.

When a patient corrects malocclusion—where the upper and lower teeth do not fit together properly—or crowding, it impacts the lower third of the face. According to the source, correcting a retracted bite can move the lower jaw forward into its natural position, creating the visual effect of a more defined chin.
This shift provides better support for the lips and refines the mandibular profile by balancing the muscles used for chewing. These natural changes can often be mistaken for the use of fillers, such as hyaluronic acid.
What could happen next?
As more high-profile athletes adopt invisible aligners, there may be an increase in public awareness regarding the link between oral health and facial aesthetics. This could lead to more frequent discussions on how non-invasive dental corrections serve as an alternative to cosmetic surgery for achieving facial symmetry.

Frequently Asked Questions
Did Lionel Messi undergo facial plastic surgery?
No. According to Antonela Roccuzzo, he has never had surgery and the changes in his appearance are due to Invisalign.
What is Invisalign?
It is an invisible orthodontic system using custom, transparent, and removable thermoplastic aligners to gradually move teeth into position.
How can dental work make a chin look more defined?
By correcting malocclusion or a retracted bite, the lower jaw can move forward into its natural position, which creates a more projected and defined chin.
Do you think more athletes will switch to invisible orthodontics for both safety and aesthetics?