Introduction
Welcome back to another episode of the You're Blank, What Now? Podcast. I’m your host, Marci Nettles, and I’m thrilled to bring you another inspiring story of resilience and transformation. Today, we’re diving into the journey of Natalie Tucker, a 33-year-old mother, business owner, and social media marketer from Florida. Natalie’s story is one of overcoming obstacles, reclaiming health, and redefining self-worth, all while balancing the challenges of modern motherhood and entrepreneurship.
From a Stable Childhood to Worldly Distractions
Natalie begins by reflecting on her childhood, which she describes as stable and fulfilling. She was raised in a loving home with two parents who provided her with everything she desired. As an only child, she kept busy with sports and other activities, but as she grew older, worldly influences began to seep in. These distractions led her to focus on things that seemed fulfilling at the time but ultimately were not.
The Impact of Social Media and the Pursuit of Perfection
As Natalie entered adulthood, she became increasingly influenced by external pressures, particularly those stemming from her involvement in bikini bodybuilding competitions. Competing in these events placed a heavy emphasis on physical appearance, with judges critiquing every aspect of the body’s shape and proportion. Natalie felt the pressure to conform to a certain standard, one that included having larger breasts to balance her physique.
At just 21 years old, Natalie decided to get breast implants. The decision was heavily influenced by the social media culture and the competitive environment she was immersed in. She took out a loan to finance the procedure, driven by a belief that having implants would boost her confidence, improve her chances of winning competitions, and make her feel more attractive.
The Reality of Breast Implants
However, the reality of having breast implants was far from what Natalie expected. The procedure itself was made to seem simple, with little discussion about the potential risks or long-term effects. Natalie recalls that the side effects and possible complications were never mentioned by her doctor. She trusted the medical professionals, believing that if a doctor recommended the surgery, it must be safe.
As time went on, Natalie began to experience various health issues, though it took years for her to connect the dots. It wasn’t until she got sober and adopted a healthier lifestyle—eliminating processed foods and focusing on nutrition—that she started to notice the symptoms of what she later identified as breast implant illness (BII). These symptoms included inflammation, brain fog, lethargy, and other issues that were not typical for someone her age.
A Turning Point: Awareness and Action
Despite making significant lifestyle changes, Natalie continued to feel unwell. It was then that she began to suspect her breast implants as the cause of her health problems. The idea had been subtly suggested to her over the years through social media posts, articles sent by friends and family, and other hints that she now recognizes as nudges from God. Eventually, she realized that her implants were likely the root of her issues and decided to have them removed—a process known as explanting.
Natalie acknowledges that explanting is a significant decision that requires support and preparation. Fortunately, she met her husband around the same time she started considering explanting, and with his support, she felt ready to move forward.
The Role of Implants in Fertility Concerns
Natalie’s health concerns extended beyond the physical symptoms of BII; she also worried about how her implants might affect her fertility. Despite being married for some time, Natalie and her husband had not yet conceived, which added to her anxiety. She wondered if the implants were contributing to her difficulties in becoming pregnant.
Natalie explains that breast implants, even saline ones, can pose risks because they contain silicone and other harmful chemicals. Over time, the body forms a capsule around the implants, a protective response to the toxic materials that can leak into the body. This constant battle within her body, combined with the stress of trying to conceive, made Natalie question whether the implants were hindering her ability to start a family.
What We Have Learned So Far
Natalie’s journey is one of deep introspection and courage. She bravely faced the challenges of breast implant illness, societal pressures, and the fear of infertility. Through her story, she highlights the importance of self-acceptance, the dangers of conforming to external standards, and the profound impact that health choices can have on one’s life.
The Impact of Breast Implant Illness on Health and Well-being
Breast Implant Illness (BII) is a condition that many women with breast implants may experience, although it is often misunderstood or even dismissed by medical professionals. The body's response to breast implants can be severe, causing a range of symptoms that can dramatically affect a woman's quality of life. This section will explore the effects of BII on health, drawing from personal experiences and highlighting the importance of awareness and proper medical care.
Inflammation and Immune System Overdrive
One of the primary issues with breast implants is the chronic inflammation they can cause in the body. As the body recognizes the implants as foreign objects, it triggers an immune response. This response is intended to protect the body from harm, but in the case of implants, it can lead to ongoing inflammation. This inflammation not only causes physical discomfort, such as joint pain and swelling, but it can also have more severe consequences, such as affecting fertility. When the body is constantly fighting inflammation, it may not be able to focus on other functions, such as maintaining a healthy reproductive system.
The Toxicity of Implants
Breast implants, whether silicone or saline, are surrounded by materials that can be toxic to the body. The outer shell of the implants, made of silicone, contains over 37 toxic chemicals. When these toxins leach into the body, they can exacerbate the immune response, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, mood swings, brain fog, and more. The body's constant battle against these toxins puts it in a state of survival mode, making it difficult for women to perform daily activities, let alone consider the possibility of having children.
The Struggle with Daily Life
The impact of BII on daily life cannot be understated. Many women with BII report feeling like they are aging rapidly, with symptoms such as joint pain, fatigue, and brain fog making it difficult to perform even simple tasks. As Natalie shared in her story, the condition can be so debilitating that even running errands or doing household chores becomes overwhelming. This not only affects a woman's physical health but also her mental and emotional well-being. The frustration of not being able to live life to the fullest can lead to feelings of depression and anxiety.
The Journey to Healing
For many women, the first step toward healing from BII is recognizing that their implants may be the cause of their symptoms. This realization often comes after hearing the stories of others who have experienced similar issues. As Natalie mentioned, there is no official diagnosis for BII, and the medical community is still divided on the issue. However, by sharing experiences and raising awareness, women can begin to understand the connection between their symptoms and their implants.
Once the decision to explant (remove the implants) is made, many women notice a significant improvement in their health. The process of selecting a doctor for explant surgery is crucial, as not all surgeons are knowledgeable about the importance of removing not only the implants but also the surrounding capsules. The capsule is a layer of scar tissue that forms around the implant, and it often traps toxins that have leached from the implant. Removing the capsule is essential for ensuring that the body can fully recover from the effects of BII.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Surgeon
When it comes to explant surgery, finding a surgeon who understands BII and has experience with proper explant techniques is critical. As Natalie shared, her surgeon, Dr. Barnett, was an advocate for women suffering from BII and ensured that the explant procedure was done safely and thoroughly. It's important for women to do their research, ask the right questions, and make sure that their surgeon is committed to removing both the implants and the capsules.
Unfortunately, not all surgeons take this approach, and some women continue to experience symptoms after explant surgery because the capsules were not removed. This highlights the need for women to be their own advocates, seeking out surgeons who have a deep understanding of BII and who prioritize the health and well-being of their patients.
Address Breast Implant Illness Awareness
Breast Implant Illness is a serious condition that can have a profound impact on a woman's health and quality of life. The journey to healing begins with awareness and the courage to take action, whether that means removing the implants or finding a supportive medical team. By sharing stories and raising awareness, women can help each other navigate the challenges of BII and find hope in the possibility of recovery.
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms that could be related to breast implants, it is important to seek out information, connect with others who have gone through similar experiences, and consult with a knowledgeable healthcare professional. Healing is possible, and taking the first step towards explant surgery could be the key to reclaiming your health and well-being.
Natalie’s Journey to Healing and Self-Rediscovery
Natalie's experience of getting breast implants and eventually deciding to explant was deeply intertwined with her emotional and spiritual growth. For ten years, from the age of 21 to 31, those implants were a significant part of her identity. Like many young women, she had formed attachments to both people and things, often finding herself in codependent relationships. This sense of dependency extended to her implants, which she idolized, believing they made her feel and look better.
The True Source of Identity
However, Natalie came to realize that her identity was not rooted in her physical appearance but in her character and how she represented herself. After years of struggling with the perception that her worth was tied to her implants, she sought counseling to release the soul ties associated with this false identity. This was not just a physical change but an energetic shift within her spirit, leading to a sense of purity and holiness that she had not felt in years. She described this transformation as a return to her true self, a feeling of being lighter both physically and spiritually.
Physical and Spiritual Relief
One of the most significant changes for Natalie was the physical relief she felt after the explant surgery. She was finally able to run without pain and sleep on her stomach comfortably. These might seem like small victories, but they represented a profound sense of freedom for Natalie. The relief was not just physical; she felt it on a spiritual level as well, shedding the weight of the implants both literally and metaphorically.
Open Communication with Her Husband
Natalie’s journey was not one she walked alone. Her husband was by her side every step of the way, providing unwavering support. They had numerous conversations about the explant surgery and what it would mean for their lives, particularly in terms of intimacy. The decision to explant was deeply personal, and Natalie was aware that her body would look different afterward, which could affect their intimate relationship. Her husband’s input was invaluable, especially when it came to deciding whether to get a lift along with the explant.
Initially, Natalie was hesitant about the additional procedure due to financial constraints.
However, after discussing it with her doctor and considering her husband’s advice, she decided to go ahead with the lift. They used care credit, which allowed them to manage the financial burden through a payment plan, making the surgery more accessible. Natalie was ultimately glad she opted for the lift, recognizing it as a one-time decision that she would not want to revisit after having children.
The Emotional Journey of Recovery
The recovery process was emotionally challenging for Natalie. The first time she took a shower after the surgery, she cried as she saw the scars and the changes in her body. It was a moment of vulnerability, but she and her husband faced it together. They agreed that she would wear a bra for the first several months, allowing her to gradually adjust to her new body. This open communication and mutual support were crucial in helping them navigate this emotional and physical trauma.
Natalie emphasized the importance of having open conversations with loved ones when undergoing such a significant life change. The surgery was not just a reduction in breast size; it was a deeply traumatic experience that affected her on multiple levels. She acknowledged the responsibility she had in choosing to get implants in the first place, but also the trauma of removing them. Having a strong support system, including her husband, was essential in her healing process.
The Financial and Medical Realities
The financial aspect of explant surgery is a significant consideration for many women. As Natalie mentioned, the cost of removing implants often exceeds the cost of getting them. This can be a major barrier for women who wish to explant but cannot afford the procedure. Natalie and her husband were able to manage the expense through care credit, which offered an 18-month interest-free payment plan. This financial tool made the surgery possible for them, and Natalie highly recommends it for others in similar situations.
Natalie also cautioned women to be meticulous in choosing their doctors, ensuring that the procedure is done correctly the first time to avoid additional expenses or complications. Many women are unaware that breast implants should be replaced every ten years. Natalie herself had her implants for 21 years without replacement, a decision she now realizes could have led to more severe complications. She stressed the importance of considering the long-term consequences of such decisions, especially in a society that often prioritizes instant gratification over long-term well-being.
The Physical Transformation Post-Explant
After her explant surgery, Natalie experienced immediate and noticeable changes in her appearance and well-being. She described a moment of shock and amazement at how different she looked and felt. Her eyes became brighter, and the bags under her eyes diminished. Despite living a healthy lifestyle, including eating clean, working out, and staying hydrated, she had previously looked and felt older than her years. The removal of the implants seemed to restore her vitality and youthful glow, changes that were both visible and felt deeply within her.
The recovery process from the explant surgery was much smoother than the initial implant surgery. Natalie was up and walking just three days after the procedure, a stark contrast to the weeks of bedridden recovery she had endured after getting the implants. She honored her body’s need for rest and allowed herself time to heal without rushing back into her usual routine. This self-care was a crucial part of her recovery, acknowledging that her body deserved the time and space to heal properly.
The Immediate and Long-Term Benefits
Natalie’s experience is a testament to the body’s ability to heal and recover when toxic elements are removed. The immediate improvements in her appearance, such as the brightness in her eyes and the reduction of under-eye bags, were just the beginning. The long-term benefits included a newfound sense of lightness and energy that she had not felt in years. She no longer felt the pressure of carrying the extra weight on her chest, which had caused discomfort and back pain.
For Natalie, the decision to return to her natural design was not just about physical health but also about aligning with how she believed God created her. She felt a deeper connection to her body and a sense of relief from the constant pressure she had previously felt. Her experience serves as a powerful reminder that sometimes, we don’t realize how much better we can feel until we make the choice to let go of what no longer serves us.
Fertility and the Impact of Implants
Natalie also shared her concerns about the impact of implants on fertility. Although it took a couple of years after the explant surgery, Natalie and her husband were eventually able to conceive. The fears she had about breastfeeding after the surgery, particularly after getting a lift, were alleviated when she successfully breastfed her son. This experience brought immense joy and relief, knowing that despite the changes her body had undergone, she could still nourish her child naturally.
The possibility that the implants had been causing fertility issues was something Natalie had considered. She felt that the removal of the implants might have allowed her body to function more naturally, aligning with its intended design. The fact that she was able to conceive and have a natural birth after the explant was a profound affirmation of her decision.
The Journey of Healing and Embracing Motherhood After Breast Implant Illness
Navigating the Challenges of Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a profound connection between a mother and her child, a bond that lasts a lifetime. However, the journey to successful breastfeeding can be fraught with challenges. For Nathalie, after overcoming the physical and emotional toll of breast implant illness, breastfeeding was another hurdle. Initially, her son had difficulty latching, leading them to believe he had a tongue tie. Despite recommendations for therapy, Nathalie decided to wait and see how things would unfold. During this period, she exclusively pumped and bottle-fed her son.
After a month and a half, her son showed signs of readiness to nurse directly, which brought Nathalie immense joy. They used a nipple shield to help with the transition, a tool that mimicked the bottle her son was accustomed to while still allowing for milk flow. This shield served as a bridge until her son could latch naturally, and soon they were exclusively breastfeeding. Nathalie's persistence paid off, and she embraced the natural flow of motherhood, which she describes as a beautiful experience.
The Role of Faith in Healing and Motherhood
Nathalie’s journey of healing, both from breast implant illness and as a new mother, was deeply intertwined with her faith. She had reached a point where she recognized that her way of handling things was not working. It was at this juncture that she turned to Jesus, surrendering her struggles and embracing a relationship with God. This spiritual transformation led her to remove the toxic elements from her life, including her breast implants, and allowed her to step into her role as a mother fully.
Nathalie believes that God knew the desires of her heart—to be a mother and to be a healthy, fully functional one. She acknowledges that everyone’s journey is unique and that her path was one of purification and preparation, guided by her faith. This spiritual journey not only helped her heal physically but also strengthened her resolve to become the mother she always wanted to be.
Embracing Your Unique Journey
While Nathalie’s story is powerful, she is careful to point out that her experience may not be the same for everyone. She understands that some women may have breast implants without experiencing any negative effects. However, she emphasizes the importance of being aware and vigilant. For those with breast implants who are diagnosed with autoimmune disorders or other unexplained health issues, Nathalie advises considering the possibility that the implants could be a contributing factor.
Her message is clear: every woman’s journey is unique. While some may never experience complications, others, like Nathalie, find that removing implants leads to significant health improvements. The key is to listen to your body, seek out stories and experiences from other women, and make informed decisions based on your own circumstances.
The Power of Sharing Stories
Nathalie’s decision to share her story publicly on social media was not just a step towards her own healing but also an act of service to others. She credits the courage of other women who shared their experiences with giving her the conviction to remove her implants. Their stories provided the final push she needed to take that leap of faith.
Through her own vulnerability, Nathalie has influenced countless women, including her mother-in-law, to consider explanting. She also shares the story of a young mother who, after seeing Nathalie’s journey, decided against getting breast implants. Nathalie’s openness has saved others from potentially harmful decisions, proving that sharing stories can indeed save lives.
Reflecting on the Past and Offering Advice
If Nathalie could go back in time, she would advise her younger self against getting breast implants. However, she acknowledges that her younger, more naive self might not have listened. Despite this, she would emphasize the importance of recognizing one’s inherent beauty and worth without needing to alter one’s body.
To women considering implants or those who already have them, Nathalie’s advice is grounded in her faith: the allure of breast implants is rooted in ego, pride, and worldly desires, none of which bring lasting fulfillment. Instead, they can lead to deeper issues that detract from one’s true value and purpose. She urges women to consider the spiritual and physical consequences of such decisions and to seek a deeper relationship with God to understand their worth.
Final Thoughts
Nathalie’s journey is a testament to the power of faith, the importance of listening to your body, and the transformative impact of sharing your story. Her experience serves as a beacon of hope for others facing similar struggles, offering both a cautionary tale and a message of redemption.
For those considering breast implants, or struggling with their decision, Nathalie encourages reaching out for support. Whether through connecting with others who have gone through similar experiences or seeking guidance through prayer and reflection, she believes that no one should face these challenges alone. It takes a village, she says, to navigate the complexities of such decisions, and she is grateful for the community that supported her through her journey.
As Nathalie continues to share her story, she remains committed to helping others find their path to healing and self-acceptance, always pointing back to the faith that guided her through her darkest moments.
If you loved this story, you may also enjoy these YBWN Podcast Episodes:
Episode 26: “You’re Living a Toxic Life, What Now?” with Natalie Tucker
Episode 54: “You’re Defying the Breast Rule Book, What Now?” with Dr. Amanda Savage Brown
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