Extreme makeovers are nothing new. From dramatic weight-loss journeys to full-body tattoo transformations, people have found countless ways to reshape their appearance over the years.

But few stories are as extraordinary—or as controversial—as that of Michel “Diabão” Praddo. His dramatic body transformation has made headlines around the world, leaving many people stunned when they see photographs of what he looked like before.

For many, it’s difficult to believe that the clean-cut man in older photos and the heavily modified figure seen today are the same person.

A Life Dedicated to Body Modification

Michel Faro do Prado, better known by his nickname “Diabão,” which translates to “Big Devil,” is widely recognized as one of the world’s most extensively modified individuals. Based in Brazil, he has built an online following of more than 300,000 people who closely follow his unique lifestyle and appearance.

His body modifications are far more than a hobby—they are a central part of his identity. Through social media, he regularly documents new procedures and shares the personal meaning behind his evolving look.

As images of his transformation spread online, many people began referring to him as the “Human Satan,” a nickname inspired by his devil-like appearance.

Creating His Devil-Inspired Appearance

Michel’s appearance is the result of years of extensive body modification.

Around 85 percent of his body is covered in tattoos, but the ink is only one part of his transformation. He has undergone horn implants beneath the skin of his forehead, removed the outer portions of his ears, reshaped his teeth, and completed numerous other procedures to achieve the look he envisioned.

Speaking about his journey, Michel has explained that physical pain has never been enough to stop him from pursuing his goals. Although the recovery process is often more difficult than the procedures themselves, he believes the discomfort is worthwhile if it brings him closer to the appearance he desires.

He has previously shared that some modifications would be impossible without anesthesia because of their intensity, yet he remains committed to continuing his transformation despite the challenges.

Embracing the “Human Satan” Nickname

While many people would likely be uncomfortable being compared to the devil, Michel has openly embraced the nickname.

He has explained that his appearance should not be mistaken for his personal beliefs or values. In interviews, he has said he finds artistic beauty in the traditional fictional image of the devil while emphasizing that his personal faith and desire to do good are separate from his appearance.

For Michel, the look is symbolic rather than a reflection of evil.

More Than 60 Procedures

His transformation extends well beyond tattoos and facial implants.

According to reports, Michel has undergone more than 60 body-modification procedures over the years. These include silicone implants, scarification, transdermal implants, and the removal of several body parts, including his nose, ears, nipples, navel, and portions of his ears.

He has also chosen to split and tattoo his tongue, widen the corners of his mouth, receive chrome dental implants, undergo liposuction, and have abdominal contouring surgery.

Each procedure has been part of a carefully planned effort to create a body that reflects his personal vision.

Turning His Hands Into Claws

One of Michel’s most talked-about decisions involved changing the shape of his hands.

He revealed that he planned to amputate both his pinky and ring fingers in order to create a claw-like appearance. The announcement shocked many of his followers and quickly sparked debate online, with opinions ranging from fascination to disbelief.

The procedure became another milestone in his ongoing transformation.

Guinness World Record Holder

Michel’s remarkable appearance has also earned him international recognition.

He currently holds a Guinness World Record for having the greatest number of horn implants on his head. Achieving the record fulfilled a longtime dream and gave him the opportunity to travel to Europe for the official recognition.

Speaking about the experience, he described it as emotional and unforgettable, admitting that receiving the award brought tears to his eyes.

A Family That Shares His Passion

Michel isn’t the only member of his household who has embraced extreme body modification.

His wife, Carol Praddo, is also well known for her extensive modifications and has earned the nickname “Demon Woman” from Brazilian media.

Together, the couple owns and operates a tattoo studio while raising their son. Their shared passion for tattoos and body art has become an important part of both their personal and professional lives.

Interestingly, Michel has said Carol was initially hesitant about extreme body modification when they first met. Over time, however, the two developed a shared interest that now defines much of their lifestyle.

From Ordinary Beginnings

Long before becoming internationally famous, Michel lived a much different life.

He was born in Santos, a coastal city in São Paulo state, Brazil. During the 1990s, he became involved in the hippie movement and traveled throughout the country, an experience he says helped shape his outlook on life.

It was during this period that he received his very first tattoo—a tribal design on his right arm.

Eventually, he settled in Praia Grande, where he continued building his career.

Before meeting Carol, Michel had been married and became the father of two children. In the mid-2000s, he turned tattooing into a full-time profession, a career that would later become closely connected to his passion for body modification.

More Than Just Appearance

Michel has repeatedly said that his transformation isn’t simply about looking different.

In his view, every tattoo, implant, and procedure represents personal freedom and self-expression. He believes modifying his body allows him to break away from social expectations and create an appearance that matches how he sees himself internally.

Rather than chasing attention, he describes the process as a way of expressing his evolving identity.

Photos From Before the Transformation

Occasionally, Michel shares older photographs on Instagram showing what he looked like before beginning his body-modification journey.

These images often surprise viewers because the contrast is so dramatic.

Many people struggle to understand why someone would permanently alter their appearance to such an extent. Critics argue that the changes cannot truly be reversed and point out that even if reconstruction were attempted, significant scarring and permanent alterations would remain.

Others, however, see things differently.

Supporters argue that the purpose of extensive body modification is not to preserve someone’s original appearance but to move as far away from it as possible. They believe the transformation can bring a sense of relief and authenticity to individuals who never felt comfortable with how they looked before.

Even people who say they would never make similar choices themselves often acknowledge that they can understand Michel’s desire to express his identity in a deeply personal way.

Whether admired, criticized, or simply viewed with curiosity, Michel “Diabão” Praddo has become one of the most recognizable figures in the global body-modification community. His journey continues to spark conversations about identity, self-expression, personal freedom, and the limits of physical transformation, making him one of the most fascinating and polarizing individuals in the world of extreme body art.