A Venezuelan model has revealed how she has reduced her waist to just 20 inches — by wearing a corset for 23 hours a day for more than a decade.
Aleira Avendaño, 33, began her waist-training journey back in 2009 and has spent 16 years committed to maintaining her tiny hourglass figure. She removes the corset for only one hour a day to shower and rest, and even sleeps in it.
“For me, a small waist is not just about aesthetics — it’s a symbol of discipline, focus, and passion,” she told the Daily Mail. “It makes me happy to see my body reflect my effort and vision.”
Aleira, who has also spent more than $1 million on body modifications, including seven breast surgeries, five nose jobs, bum implants, and dental work, says her transformation has been gradual and carefully managed.
While she admits the corset has slightly shifted her internal organs, she insists she has always undergone regular medical supervision. “I’ve never put my health at risk, and all my check-ups have been positive,” she said.
Back in 2015, however, a doctor warned her that long-term corset use could become dangerous. Dr. Andrés Ruiz at the time said: “In my medical opinion, she should stop this immediately. Thank God she has not done any damage so far, but she should stop before it’s too late.”
Aleira disagrees with her critics, explaining that she has “never ignored her body’s signals” and has not experienced pain. “At first, it feels strange, like any body transformation. But over time, it becomes part of your routine.”
Despite facing criticism online — with some branding her look “bizarre” — Aleira says she doesn’t regret her decision. “Everyone is entitled to their opinion, but I also have the right to live my truth. This has never been about pleasing others. I did it for myself.”
She now frequently showcases her 20-inch waist on social media, where she has more than a million followers. Aleira has also launched her own line of corsets and shapewear, encouraging others to pursue waist training “with discipline and medical guidance.”
Her ultimate goal is to achieve the smallest waist in the world — a record currently held at 15 inches — but she says her real focus is on balance: “More than chasing extremes, I want to remain strong, healthy, and true to my ideal image.”
