Nathalie Azoulai, a novelist and author of The New Face, has examined the topic of cosmetic surgery and its influence on broader societal and anthropological themes. These include the relationship with time, old age, self-fidelity, and the faces of one's parents. Her interest in the subject was sparked by her fascination with Hollywood and the altered appearances of celebrities. Azoulai argues that cosmetic surgery is not a trivial or elitist concern but rather a subject that reflects deeper societal issues. She observes that the fixation with perfect faces and bodies among celebrities mirrors a tendency for women to compare themselves more than men do, even as efforts are made to avoid being reduced to plastic and consumable images. Azoulai explores the tension between aging well and aging poorly, questioning whether cosmetic surgery represents a form of liberation or a submission to aesthetic and commercial standards. She acknowledges both viewpoints, noting that while some women may feel pressured by the image industry, for others—particularly actresses—it can also serve as a way to extend their professional careers. In her book, Azoulai introduces the concept of "The New Face," highlighting that it is neither young nor old. She points out the anthropological challenge of encountering a 60-year-old face that looks fresh and radiant, even though the underlying bones are not those of a 20-year-old. Cosmetic surgery can erase family features and create new connections between women who are not related. Azoulai's research in Beverly Hills revealed that cosmetic surgery is a common practice, in contrast to France, where natural aging is more accepted. Los Angeles, with its intense focus on the body, became a lens through which she observed a global trend. She notes that since the first facelifts in the 1920s, the techniques have advanced significantly. In cinema, actresses who had facelifts in the past were still seen as older women of their time, with techniques that did not provide a realistic appearance of youth. Today, however, procedures involve lifting muscles and tissues, combined with injections that add volume, allowing actresses like Nicole Kidman, 59, to play roles typically reserved for younger characters. Azoulai references Anna Magnani's view on her wrinkles, suggesting that in 2026, choosing not to undergo surgery could be a powerful statement. She also mentions Charlotte Rampling and Monica Bellucci, who seem to reject societal expectations about aging and appearance, making bold choices about how they present themselves. These women challenge the norms and offer an alternative to the widespread pursuit of a youthful image.