Every leaf you remove, is a storehouse of nutes, and potential photosynthesis the plant loses. Every incision you make is a wound that must heal. Every wound that needs to heal, takes from the vigor of the plant and will add time to the project.

Were there a Better Homes and Growrooms magazine coming to do a spread, perhaps I'd worry about aesthetics. But after a few years of growing, adding more time to my growroom chores is out of the question, lol. (and I'm the only one that sees them anyway)

Plus, making them look better does not make the psychoactives stronger nor will it make them smell better. Genetics, lighting and nutes controlls most of this.

However it would be cool if you could train 'em to a nice topiary scene.
Google Images - Topiary

But if not growing for a dispensary, and you have enough personal to tide you over...there's nothing wrong with playing in the sandbox, lol.