Karamo Brown Opens Up About Surgery Pain
Queer Eye star Karamo Brown has revealed that complications from a 2021 buccal fat removal procedure left him with years of pain and swelling, which continued into his return to television. He disclosed in a People magazine cover interview, saying he stayed silent for years while facing public speculation about his appearance.
Karamo Brown says complications from a cosmetic procedure he underwent in 2021 left him dealing with long-term health issues that he kept private while continuing his television career.
Brown said he underwent buccal fat removal in 2021 and later developed medical complications that affected his daily comfort and work life. He said he did not speak publicly at the time and instead continued filming while managing symptoms behind the scenes.
Why Karamo Brown Is Speaking Out Now
Brown said he remained silent for years despite widespread online speculation about changes in his appearance, including claims that he had fillers or other cosmetic work.
He explained that he chose not to respond publicly while focusing on treatment and continuing work on The Karamo Show, which launched in 2022. In a 2025 appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, he also denied undergoing cosmetic procedures, a claim that has not been revisited in detail since his latest disclosure
Timeline of Events
Brown underwent buccal fat removal in 2021 during a period when he said he was struggling with body image concerns following weight gain during the COVID-19 pandemic.
He said complications followed soon after the procedure and persisted through his return to television in 2022. During filming of The Karamo Show, he continued working while managing ongoing discomfort and recovery-related issues.
What Is Buccal Fat Removal?
Buccal fat removal is a cosmetic procedure that reduces cheek volume by removing fat pads in the lower face to create a more contoured appearance.
The procedure has gained popularity in recent years, particularly in celebrity culture and on social media, where a slimmer facial structure is often viewed as an aesthetic ideal. However, medical professionals note it carries risks, including swelling, asymmetry, nerve irritation, and prolonged healing in some cases.
Brown said he now hopes his experience encourages others dealing with chronic pain or post-surgical complications to seek support and speak more openly about their experiences.
