Embracing Transparency and Overcoming Vulnerability Hangover // My Breast Implant Journey
In a world that often values appearances over authenticity, sharing one’s personal struggles and triumphs can be both liberating and daunting. Recently, I had the honor of being a guest on Michael O’Brian’s The Kintsugi Podcast. For those who are unfamiliar, Michael’s transformation from victim to victor is both mind-blowing and heartwarming. He is also the founder of the Pause • Breathe • Reflect community and meditation app, a TEDx Speaker, Author, husband, and father. Our conversation delved into my own journey, and the experience left me with a profound vulnerability hangover. As someone who has vowed to be #TheTruthSpreader, I knew I had to share this next layer of my story with you.
My Journey: From Cosmetic Surgery to Health Crisis
Without preparation, I dove into my story, responding authentically in real-time about my experience as the spouse of a porn addict and how that influenced my decision to undergo cosmetic surgery. This decision, which I hoped would improve my self-esteem, instead led to a cascade of health issues, including a cancer diagnosis. Eventually, I chose to have my implants removed, resulting in less-than-desirable aesthetic outcomes for my left breast, which I continue to grapple with to this day.
The Decision to Undergo Cosmetic Surgery
The pressure to conform to societal beauty standards can be overwhelming. As the spouse of a porn addict, I felt an intense pressure to look a certain way. I believed that breast implants would help me feel more attractive and secure in my relationship. However, the reality was far different. The surgery did not bring the self-love and acceptance I had hoped for. Instead, it introduced a host of new challenges.
Health Complications and Cancer Diagnosis
Not long after my surgery, I began experiencing health issues. Fatigue, thyroid dysfunction, and eventually, a cancer diagnosis turned my world upside down. The realization that my implants could be contributing to my declining health was devastating. The decision to explant was not taken lightly, but it was necessary for my well-being.
Explant Surgery and Its Aftermath
The explant surgery, while necessary, brought its own set of challenges. The aesthetic results were far from what I had hoped for, leaving me with a sense of loss and disappointment. My left breast, in particular, did not heal as expected, and I continue to deal with the physical and emotional aftermath of this journey.
The Dangers of Breast Implants
Breast implants are often marketed as safe and straightforward, but the reality is that they come with significant risks. From autoimmune issues to severe health complications, the dangers are real and often downplayed. It is essential for people to understand these risks before undergoing surgery.
Discover More About My Journey
Read on...
Why I Decided to Remove My Breast Implants
My journey to self-love
My Reasons for Removing My Implants
Find out more
My Experience After Implant Removal
My journey to clarity
The Journey to Self-Love and Acceptance
One of the most important lessons I have learned through this journey is that we are lovable as we are. We do not need to add foreign objects to our bodies to achieve a certain look to be considered lovable. True self-love and acceptance come from within, not from conforming to external standards.
Check Out the Podcast
If you’re curious to hear more about my journey and the insights I shared with Michael O’Brian, I invite you to check out a clip from the podcast below:
Podcast Clip – My Breast Implant Journey
For the full, in-depth conversation, listen to the entire episode here:
Sharing my story on The Kintsugi Podcast was a powerful reminder of the importance of transparency and authenticity. The vulnerability “hangover” I experienced is a testament to the release + deep emotional work involved in sharing our truths. It is through this sharing that we can inspire and support others on their journeys. Let us all commit to spreading the truth and embracing our authentic selves.
For more information on breast implant safety, recovery, and explant risks, stay tuned to my blog and join the Wellness Warrior Collective. Together, we can create a world where everyone feels lovable just as they are.
