Shaquille O’Neal has never been shy about owning who he is — on the court, on TV, or in everyday life. Now, the NBA legend is proving that same confidence applies to self-care, anti-aging routines, and even cosmetic procedures.
While making the media rounds recently, the 15-time All-Star shared some unexpectedly candid thoughts about how he’s staying energized, youthful, and camera-ready in his 50s. And, in classic Shaq fashion, he did it with humor, honesty, and zero embarrassment.
During an interview with Entertainment Tonight, O’Neal was asked about his anti-aging routine — a question that led to laughter, playful protest, and eventually a full reveal.
“First of all, don’t you ever give out my secrets,” Shaq joked. “I’m 53. I’m not getting any younger. I just want to stay young, beautiful, and hot.”
That “secret” includes blood-spinning treatments, a cosmetic procedure that has grown increasingly popular among athletes, entertainers, and public figures looking to maintain energy, recovery, and skin health. The treatment, which uses components of a person’s own blood to promote rejuvenation, has been embraced by many who prefer minimally invasive options over traditional cosmetic surgery.
But Shaq didn’t stop there.
In a moment that quickly made headlines, the Hall of Famer casually revealed his next potential procedure: lip reduction surgery.
“The next procedure I’m getting is a lip reduction,” Shaq said with a grin. “Because these lips are so juicy.”
It was vintage Shaq — confident, self-aware, and completely unbothered by the idea of discussing cosmetic enhancements in public. At a time when conversations around male grooming and cosmetic procedures are becoming more open, O’Neal’s comments reflect a shifting mindset, especially among athletes who spent much of their careers being told to “tough it out.”
Cosmetic procedures like lip reduction surgery are typically pursued for comfort, symmetry, or personal preference, and Shaq’s lighthearted admission underscores an important point: self-care isn’t about vanity — it’s about feeling good in your own body.
That philosophy extends to his fitness journey as well. Despite being one of the most physically dominant players in NBA history, Shaq admitted he’s still working toward his own personal goals.
“I’m not ready to take my shirt off yet,” he joked. “But I will soon.”
Even decades after his playing days, Shaq continues to set standards for himself — not because anyone expects it, but because he does.
Today, O’Neal remains one of basketball’s most recognizable voices as a national analyst on Inside the NBA, now airing on ESPN alongside Charles Barkley, Ernie Johnson, and Kenny Smith. Whether he’s breaking down games, cracking jokes, or talking openly about beauty treatments, Shaq remains exactly who fans have always loved: authentic, larger than life, and completely comfortable in his own skin.
And yes — apparently, very comfortable with his lips, too.