Denise Richards says she decided to talk openly about her facelift because her estranged husband, Aaron Phypers, brought it up in court. The 55-year-old former 'Real Housewives of Beverly Hills' star explained her decision on 'The Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg Show', a podcast hosted by Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg.
"My ex, from whom I am divorcing, mentioned it in court on purpose," Richards said. She added that she did not want to give him that power and is glad she addressed the matter publicly.
Richards underwent the procedure in June 2025, approximately 10 days before Phypers filed for divorce on 7 July, citing irreconcilable differences. The procedure included a deep-plane facelift, a temporal brow lift, an eyelid lift, a lip corner lift, and fat transfer.
The 'Daily Mail' reported that the facelift cost approximately $200,000. It was her first cosmetic facial surgery.
In March, she shared before-and-after photos with 'Allure', stating she was terrified and that "a facelift is not something that I could hide." She told 'Allure' that Phypers had claimed the surgery was botched - a claim she dismissed as ridiculous - and noted that a photographer appeared outside her scar-treatment appointment.
Richards later obtained a temporary restraining order, accusing Phypers of domestic violence. Phypers has denied the allegations, stating he has "never physically or emotionally abused Denise, or anyone."
'Page Six' reported that a judge ordered Phypers last month to pay her $25,762, including sanctions, after finding he had failed to properly answer questions from her legal team. Elsewhere in the interview, Richards expressed regret over visiting the wellness center Phypers operated, where the couple first met.
The actress remains focused on her career and personal well-being despite the ongoing legal battles. She emphasized that transparency is her way of reclaiming her narrative.
Legal experts suggest that the financial sanctions imposed by the court indicate a shift in the proceedings, as the case continues to draw significant media attention.