Comedian Kathy Griffin has publicly disclosed the six-figure cost of her third facelift, totaling $218,000, during an appearance on the Good Guys podcast on November 10, 2025. The 65-year-old performer shared candid details about her latest cosmetic procedures, which were performed by Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Dr. Ben Talei.
Speaking with hosts Josh Peck and Ben Soffer, Griffin explained her decision to undergo surgery earlier this year and credited pop star Sia for recommending her doctor. The revelation has drawn attention for its openness about the pressures women in entertainment face over their appearance.
The Procedure and Cost
Griffin, an Emmy-winning star known for Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List, said she had both a facelift and eyelid surgery about three months ago. “I am no beauty, but he did a good job,” she told the hosts.
The comedian noted that she consulted Kris Jenner’s former surgeon for the procedure, emphasizing that “it was not cheap.” She confirmed the final amount came to $218,000, covering multiple facial enhancements, including blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) and a “cat eye stitch” to lift her eyes.
Griffin revealed that Sia personally called Dr. Talei to help secure her appointment amid his busy schedule.
Quotes and Reactions
“I think when you’re a chick comedian, they just go for your looks,” Griffin said on the podcast, drawing parallels with late comic Joan Rivers, who also underwent several cosmetic surgeries.
She added that constant criticism about her appearance throughout her career influenced her decision:
“Agents used to say things like, ‘They loved your audition, but they’re going to go attractive, sorry.’ Or ‘With a nose job, you might have a chance.’ So I went and got a nose job.”
Openness and Industry Standards
Griffin’s transparency aligns with a growing trend among celebrities who discuss plastic surgery openly. Public figures such as Kris Jenner, Christina Applegate, and Kristin Davis have also spoken about cosmetic enhancements, while others like Lindsay Lohan and Kate Beckinsale have denied undergoing such procedures.
Medical experts have praised this openness for promoting realistic beauty expectations. Beverly Hills surgeon Dr. Daniel Barrett previously told USA TODAY that celebrity honesty about cosmetic work helps offset social media–driven perfectionism.
Tour and Public Reception
Currently, Griffin is promoting her “New Face, New Tour”, which humorously references her cosmetic transformation. The tour, running through early 2026, will feature stops in major U.S. cities.
As audience reactions remain largely positive, the comedian continues to blend candid self-reflection with her signature satirical humor — a formula that has long defined her success.
Sources
USA TODAY (Original report by KiMi Robinson)
Good Guys Podcast (Episode aired November 10, 2025)
Talk Your Head Off YouTube Channel
Dr. Ben Talei, Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery Center
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