Sam Smith Opens Up About Childhood Liposuction and Bullying
Sam Smith, the English singer known for hits like Unholy, Fire on Fire, and I'm Not the Only One, shared candidly about their struggles with body image during childhood. The 33-year-old artist, who uses they/them pronouns, revealed on Penn Badgley's podcast Podcrushed that they underwent liposuction at just 13 years old due to bullying and self-consciousness.
Facing Bullying Over Weight
Smith explained that their weight was the most difficult challenge they faced in school and was the main reason for being teased. They also described discomfort with a developing chest during their teenage years, which increased their vulnerability to bullying.
"My weight as a kid was the hardest thing for me in school, and weirdly, the thing I probably got teased the most about."
The Decision for Surgery
Due to this teasing and discomfort, Smith underwent chest surgery and liposuction at the age of 13. They described the social challenges such as avoiding swimming and the distress of changing in locker rooms.
"I had surgery on my chest when I was 13 years old because I had a growing chest. There was all sorts of reasons why, but mainly that I was just getting so teased."
"I couldn’t go swimming in school, and getting changed in the locker room was hell. So I got liposuction when I was 13 years old."
Parental Support
When asked about their parents’ reaction to the surgery, Smith noted their parents were very supportive of their choice to have liposuction at such a young age.
"My parents were hugely supportive of the decision."
Summary
Sam Smith shared how childhood bullying over their weight and body led to a supportive decision to undergo liposuction at 13, revealing the emotional toll of growing up with body image struggles.