Mihlali Ndamase blasts plastic surgery rumours, claims filters are to blame

Beauty influencer Mihlali Ndamase, popularly known as “Mimi,” recently expressed her frustration at persistent rumors alleging plastic surgery. In a video that has garnered significant attention, she playfully ridiculed her followers for failing to recognize that digital filters can dramatically alter one's appearance. Refusing to acknowledge any surgical procedures, Ndamase sarcastically questioned whether people were unaware of how filters function.

She expressed bafflement at the consistent online comments on her TikTok videos, alleging that social media filters frequently enhance lips, skin clarity, and reshape facial features. Despite denying any form of plastic surgery, Ndamase has been transparent about previous non-surgical cosmetic enhancements. In August 2021, she spent around R5,500 on lip fillers to achieve a fuller lip, which she later regretted after being criticized for their size and appearance.

In October 2021, she shared a YouTube video addressing the process of having her fillers dissolved, describing it as a painful experience. In February 2025, Ndamase traveled to Turkey with her mother for a four-day dental procedure at Prime Dental, receiving 20 EMAC laminate porcelain veneers at a cost of approximately R92,000 ($5,800).

Although she faced mixed reactions from critics who believed her natural teeth were fine, Ndamase defended her decision in a May 2025 YouTube Q&A, stating she was passionate about her teeth and loved her new smile. Ndamase has not confirmed any additional plastic surgery beyond her documented dental work and past lip fillers. Public reaction to her statements has largely been skeptical and mocking, with many users perceiving her explanation as an attempt to downplay noticeable structural changes.

Despite her assertions, some observers argue that her mouth and lip shape appear permanently altered, making her look unrecognizable.