Empowered Explant

Darnah Mercieca

Are you preparing to explant? An explant warrior in healing? Or still figuring out if you want to remove your breast implants? No matter where you are on your journey, you’re in the right place. Each week, we’ll bring you expert interviews, conversations with women about their experiences, and explant tips from your host Darnah Mercieca – with topics covering everything from capsules to confidence! Darnah is a board-certified health and wellness coach specializing in integrative nutrition and mindset. A sufferer of breast implant illness, she had explant surgery in November 2021. Now healed, with BII symptoms gone, she is dedicating her experience and expertise to supporting women on their explant journeys. You can help us raise awareness by hitting subscribe and leaving a review! Interviews and sponsorships email: podcast@empoweredexplant.com.

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Health & FitnessHealth & Fitness

Episodes

The Ultimate Anti-Inflammatory Diet for Explant Surgery: Foods to Eat & Avoid for a Speedy Recovery!
3d ago
The Ultimate Anti-Inflammatory Diet for Explant Surgery: Foods to Eat & Avoid for a Speedy Recovery!
In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly what to eat and avoid before your explant surgery to reduce inflammation and speed up recovery. Whether you’re prepping months in advance or just a few weeks out, these anti-inflammatory diet tips will help your body heal better and faster. I’ll walk you through my personal recommendations for foods to embrace and the ones to ditch. Ready to give your body the best chance for success? Let’s dive in!Links and resources:Get your Anti-Inflammatory Diet Cheat Sheet here:eatlist.empoweredexplant.com/ Get Your Free Explant Planning Checklist:checklist.empoweredexplant.com Empowered Explant Website Resourceswww.empoweredexplant.com/resourcesFor coaching and support before or after surgery, email me!darnah@empoweredexplant.comPlease help us be heard and raise awareness: Subscribe to the showRate and reviewShare with your friends Let's connect!Join the Empowered Explant Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredexplantConnect with Darnah on Instagram: @darnahmerciecaInterviews and sponsorships email: podcast@empoweredexplant.comMusic from Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/ilya-kuznetsov/anticipationDisclaimer: This podcast does not constitute medical or mental health advice. Darnah is not a medical practitioner. She shares from personal experience, research, and conversations with other people. If you are experiencing symptoms, pain, post-surgery complications, or mental health concerns, please seek care from your medical provider or surgeon.
The Best Way to Ease Anxiety & Mentally Prepare for Explant Surgery—In 10 Simple Steps!
Oct 1 2024
The Best Way to Ease Anxiety & Mentally Prepare for Explant Surgery—In 10 Simple Steps!
What if you could alleviate the anxiety surrounding your explant surgery and face the procedure with more calm and confidence? This journey is as much an emotional one as it is physical. Join me as I share essential strategies to mentally prepare for explant surgery. This episode equips you with powerful yet simple tools to ease your nervous system, boost your confidence, and harness the mind-body connection for a smoother recovery. Links and resources:Get Your Free Explant Planning Checklist:checklist.empoweredexplant.com Download 44 Healing Affirmations:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fSH8BTY8qoxiDWa3wozj0AaeQlvJSRW2/view?usp=sharingEmpowered Explant Website Resourceswww.empoweredexplant.com/resourcesFor coaching and support before or after surgery, email me!darnah@empoweredexplant.comPlease help us be heard and raise awareness: Subscribe to the showRate and reviewShare with your friends Let's connect!Join the Empowered Explant Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredexplantConnect with Darnah on Instagram: @darnahmerciecaInterviews and sponsorships email: podcast@empoweredexplant.comMusic from Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/ilya-kuznetsov/anticipationDisclaimer: This podcast does not constitute medical or mental health advice. Darnah is not a medical practitioner. She shares from personal experience, research, and conversations with other people. If you are experiencing symptoms, pain, post-surgery complications, or mental health concerns, please seek care from your medical provider or surgeon.
Strengthening for Surgery: Exercise to Boost Explant Recovery
Sep 24 2024
Strengthening for Surgery: Exercise to Boost Explant Recovery
What if gentle, strategic movement could significantly enhance your recovery post-explant surgery? That's exactly what we explore in this episode of Empowered Explant. Join me as I share my journey from severe fatigue and muscle atrophy to newfound strength, and discover how pre-surgery exercise centered on the core, back, legs, and glutes can make all the difference. We highlight the importance of incorporating gentle cardio, resistance training, and mobility exercises. Learn how boosting blood flow, muscle strength, and flexibility can reduce recovery time, helping you to approach your surgery with greater confidence and preparedness.Listen in for actionable tips on how to support overall health and expedite recovery, ensuring you feel empowered every step of the way as you prepare for your explant surgery.Links and resources:Free BII Symptoms Tracker: tracker.empoweredexplant.comFree 33-Step Explant Planning Checklist: checklist.empoweredexplant.com Free Protein Guide: protein.empoweredexplant.comLow Impact Core Exercises: https://youtu.be/guRvKVipJ-gLower Body Strength Exercises: https://youtu.be/NvsWnxAqb8EDaily Stretch Ritual: https://youtu.be/u9VTaWcpqaEEmpowered Explant Website Resources: www.empoweredexplant.com/resourcesFor coaching and support before or after surgery, email me!darnah@empoweredexplant.com___Please help us be heard and raise awareness:Subscribe to the showRate and reviewShare with your friendsJoin the Empowered Explant Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredexplantConnect with Darnah on Instagram: @darnahmerciecaInterviews and sponsorships email: podcast@empoweredexplant.comMusic from Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/ilya-kuznetsov/anticipationDisclaimer: Please know I am not a medical doctor and this podcast does not constitute medical or mental health advice. I share from my personal experience, research, and conversations with other people. If you are experiencing symptoms, pain, post-surgery complications, or mental health concerns, please seek care from your mPlease help us be heard and raise awareness: Subscribe to the showRate and reviewShare with your friends Let's connect!Join the Empowered Explant Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredexplantConnect with Darnah on Instagram: @darnahmerciecaInterviews and sponsorships email: podcast@empoweredexplant.comMusic from Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/ilya-kuznetsov/anticipationDisclaimer: This podcast does not constitute medical or mental health advice. Darnah is not a medical practitioner. She shares from personal experience, research, and conversations with other people. If you are experiencing symptoms, pain, post-surgery complications, or mental health concerns, please seek care from your medical provider or surgeon.
Are Your Breast Implants Making You Age Faster?
Sep 17 2024
Are Your Breast Implants Making You Age Faster?
Could breast implants be the hidden culprit behind your premature aging? In this eye-opening episode, we confront the reality that implants might be causing chronic inflammation leading to symptoms often misattributed to natural aging, and encourage women to scrutinize their symptoms rather than resign themselves to the inevitability of getting older.We'll also dive deep into the holistic healing journey after explant surgery, covering everything from proper nutrition and exercise to managing stress and reducing toxic load. The emphasis is not just on longevity, but on achieving a vibrant health span. Links and resources:Get your free BII Symptoms Tracker:tracker.empoweredexplant.comFree 33-Step Explant Planning Checklist:checklist.empoweredexplant.com Empowered Explant Website Resourceswww.empoweredexplant.com/resourcesFor coaching and support before or after surgery, email me!darnah@empoweredexplant.comPlease help us be heard and raise awareness: Subscribe to the showRate and reviewShare with your friends Let's connect!Join the Empowered Explant Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredexplantConnect with Darnah on Instagram: @darnahmerciecaInterviews and sponsorships email: podcast@empoweredexplant.comMusic from Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/ilya-kuznetsov/anticipationDisclaimer: This podcast does not constitute medical or mental health advice. Darnah is not a medical practitioner. She shares from personal experience, research, and conversations with other people. If you are experiencing symptoms, pain, post-surgery complications, or mental health concerns, please seek care from your medical provider or surgeon.
What "fluffing" really means + 7 ways you can help your breasts heal after explant surgery!
Jun 12 2024
What "fluffing" really means + 7 ways you can help your breasts heal after explant surgery!
Curious about the mysterious term "fluffing" after breast explant surgery? Listen in to gain a medically-informed understanding of this often misunderstood concept. Hear firsthand insights from Dr. Dev, an expert explant surgeon, who clarifies this phenomenon and helps set realistic expectations for your explant journey.I also share essential recovery strategies to optimize your breast healing and “fluffing” process. By the end of this episode, you'll have a comprehensive toolkit to help enhance your outcome. Don't forget to join our community and help us spread awareness by subscribing and sharing this episode! Much love!Links and resources:Get my Healing Breast Massage Oiloil.expoweredexplant.comHealing Super Smoothies Guidesmoothies.empoweredexplant.comStemregen Stem Cell Enhancement Supplementhttps://www.stemregen.co/products/stemregen/?afmc=EMPOWERED15% off your first order with code EMPOWEREDSauna Space Infrared Light Therapyhttps://sauna.space/empoweredexplant5% off your first order with code EMPOWEREDUltima Replenisher ElectrolytesTheir website: https://bit.ly/3nf8ELEAmazon: https://amzn.to/3VBsTWnQueen of the Thrones Castor Oil Packshttps://shop.queenofthethrones.com/darnahmercieca10% off your first order with code DARNAHMERCIECA10Empowered Explant Website Resourceswww.empoweredexplant.com/resourcesFor coaching and support before or after surgery, email me!darnah@empoweredexplant.comHealthline Breast Shape Articlehttps://www.healthline.com/health/breast-shapesPlease help us be heard and raise awareness: Subscribe to the showRate and reviewShare with your friends Let's connect!Join the Empowered Explant Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredexplantConnect with Darnah on Instagram: @darnahmerciecaInterviews and sponsorships email: podcast@empoweredexplant.comMusic from Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/ilya-kuznetsov/anticipationDisclaimer: This podcast does not constitute medical or mental health advice. Darnah is not a medical practitioner. She shares from personal experience, research, and conversations with other people. If you are experiencing symptoms, pain, post-surgery complications, or mental health concerns, please seek care from your medical provider or surgeon.
Protein to Boost Surgery Recovery and 5 Simple Ways to Get More of It
May 29 2024
Protein to Boost Surgery Recovery and 5 Simple Ways to Get More of It
Can prioritizing protein support your explant surgery recovery? Uncover this and more as I guide you through the essential role of protein in surgery preparation and healing in this episode of Empowered Explant. To help you feel confident on your healing journey, I explain the science behind protein's critical contributions to wound healing, immune support, and hormone regulation. You'll learn practical tips to consume a sufficient intake of high-quality protein from diverse sources, including plant-based options. Feeling empowered through knowledge is a game-changer in your recovery. Explore actionable steps to take charge of your health, from maintaining a balanced diet to understanding how dietary choices impact your healing. For those seeking additional support, I encourage reaching out via my website or email.Don't forget to share these valuable tips with other breasties in explant groups and communities! Let’s help each other explant strong and recover fast!Links and resources:Explant Surgery Protein Plannerprotein.empoweredexplant.comHealing Super Smoothies Guidesmoothies.empoweredexplant.comEmpowered Explant Website Resourceswww.empoweredexplant.com/resourcesFor coaching and support before or after surgery, email me!darnah@empoweredexplant.comScientific sources:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8970868/https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12070399/#:~:text=Protein%20deficiency%20has%20been%20demonstrated,with%20a%20high%20protein%20diet.https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=abs1199&lang=en-ca#:~:text=for%20Wound%20Healing-,Overview,amount%20of%20protein%20you%20need.Please help us be heard and raise awareness: Subscribe to the showRate and reviewShare with your friends Let's connect!Join the Empowered Explant Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredexplantConnect with Darnah on Instagram: @darnahmerciecaInterviews and sponsorships email: podcast@empoweredexplant.comMusic from Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/ilya-kuznetsov/anticipationDisclaimer: This podcast does not constitute medical or mental health advice. Darnah is not a medical practitioner. She shares from personal experience, research, and conversations with other people. If you are experiencing symptoms, pain, post-surgery complications, or mental health concerns, please seek care from your medical provider or surgeon.
3 Lessons to Build Unshakable Confidence After Explant Surgery
May 21 2024
3 Lessons to Build Unshakable Confidence After Explant Surgery
Today we're diving deep into the transformative power of self-love and cultivating confidence after explant surgery (or any stage of life!)In this episode:Personal Update: I share my joy about a beautiful new relationship that blossomed post-explant surgery, symbolizing my journey into authentic self-confidence.Connection Between Self-Image and Relationships: Reflecting on past challenges and how they shaped my expectations and self-worth.Key Insights from Mel Robbins: Drawing powerful lessons from Mel Robbins' podcast on building real confidence and how they resonate with my personal and professional growth.The Journey of Self-Acceptance: Exploring the fears many women face about their bodies post-explant and how to embrace imperfection with love.Transforming Self-Perception: Practical steps to foster self-love and reject external validation, reshaping how we perceive and react to our own bodies.Empowerment Through Action: Emphasizing the importance of proactive steps in building a self-image that radiates confidence and attracts genuine affection.Your Action Steps:Listen to this episode on the Mel Robbins podcast: “How to Build Real Confidence: 7 Truths to Unlock Your Authentic Self"Take loving action for yourself this week! Commit to doing one action repeatedly every day this week and see how you feel! Listen to this powerful song that inspires confidence and self-love through spirituality and a higher power.https://youtu.be/wcDgUIy-lJY?si=KLVOsYs3eg7ttTUvDon’t forget to text me for accountability or to tell me how this song or episode inspired you today! Click the “text me” link at the top of the show notes.If you find this episode impactful, please share it with someone who might benefit from these insights. Together, we can spread the message of empowerment and self-acceptance far and wide.Stay empowered and remember, true confidence comes from within!Links and resources:Empowered Explant Website Resourceswww.empoweredexplant.com/resourcesFor coaching and support before or after surgery, email me! darnah@empoweredexplant.comPlease help us be heard and raise awareness: Subscribe to the showRate and reviewShare with your friends Let's connect!Join the Empowered Explant Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredexplantConnect with Darnah on Instagram: @darnahmerciecaInterviews and sponsorships email: podcast@empoweredexplant.comMusic from Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/ilya-kuznetsov/anticipationDisclaimer: This podcast does not constitute medical or mental health advice. Darnah is not a medical practitioner. She shares from personal experience, research, and conversations with other people. If you are experiencing symptoms, pain, post-surgery complications, or mental health concerns, please seek care from your medical provider or surgeon.
The Risks of Breast Implants and Shocking Stats We All Need to Know!
May 14 2024
The Risks of Breast Implants and Shocking Stats We All Need to Know!
Welcome to a milestone episode of the Empowered Explant podcast—Episode 50! In honor of Women’s Health Awareness Month, we're diving deep into an issue close to our hearts (pun intended) and our health: the risks and complications associated with breast implants.FDA Insights: Sharing the FDA’s recommended boxed warning and key statistics from the patient decision checklist—information I wish I knew before my surgery.Risks & Complications: Capsular contracture, rupture or leaking of the implants, changes in skin or nipple sensitivity, the often inevitable need for re-operation, the discomforts like breast pain and asymmetry, and infection.BIA-ALCL Awareness: The real risk of breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma.Breast Implant Illness (BII): Exploring systemic symptoms and the push for recognition.Recovery Stories: Uplifting transformations post-explant surgery.This episode emphasizes the importance of making informed health decisions and the supportive role of community resources for those considering explant surgery.For more resources and to join a support network, check out the links below. If this episode inspires you, please share it to help spread crucial awareness. Your health is your most valuable asset—stay informed and empowered!Remember, you're not alone. Together, we can navigate health challenges and reclaim our well-being. Stay empowered breasties!Links and resources:Empowered Explant Website Resourceswww.empoweredexplant.com/resourcesEpisode 4: What is Breast Implant IllnessEpisode 26: Signs You Might Have BIIDownload the free symptoms tracker:symptoms.empoweredexplant.comFor coaching and support before or after surgery, email me!darnah@empoweredexplant.comPlease help us be heard and raise awareness: Subscribe to the showRate and reviewShare with your friends Let's connect!Join the Empowered Explant Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredexplantConnect with Darnah on Instagram: @darnahmerciecaInterviews and sponsorships email: podcast@empoweredexplant.comMusic from Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/ilya-kuznetsov/anticipationDisclaimer: This podcast does not constitute medical or mental health advice. Darnah is not a medical practitioner. She shares from personal experience, research, and conversations with other people. If you are experiencing symptoms, pain, post-surgery complications, or mental health concerns, please seek care from your medical provider or surgeon.
Heal your whole self with QiGong: Interview with Chris and Parisa Shelton
Dec 5 2023
Heal your whole self with QiGong: Interview with Chris and Parisa Shelton
This powerful practice of QiGong can help you heal physically and emotionally, detoxify your body, and support your health both before and after your explant surgery.  Chris and Parisa Shelton are QiGong and Chinese Medicine practitioners, co-founders of the Morning Crane Healing Arts Center, qigongteachertraining.com, and The Qi Club. Collectively they have 50 years of experience helping thousands of people around the world reclaim their health, including celebrities and professional athletes. Links and resources:Get a free meditation from Shelton QiGong:https://sheltonqigong.com/center-and-balance/Check out The Qi Club here:https://theqiclub.com/Grab a copy of Chris Shelton’s book:QiGong for Self-RefinementConnect with Chris Shelton on social media below:TikTok: @chris_shelton_qigongInstagram: @chrissheltonqigongYouTube: @chrissheltonqigongPlease help us be heard and raise awareness: Subscribe to the showRate and reviewShare with your friends Let's connect!Join the Empowered Explant Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredexplantConnect with Darnah on Instagram: @darnahmerciecaInterviews and sponsorships email: podcast@empoweredexplant.comMusic from Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/ilya-kuznetsov/anticipationDisclaimer: This podcast does not constitute medical or mental health advice. Darnah is not a medical practitioner. She shares from personal experience, research, and conversations with other people. If you are experiencing symptoms, pain, post-surgery complications, or mental health concerns, please seek care from your medical provider or surgeon.
Full Interview with Explant Surgeon, Dr. Dev Vibhakar + My Explantiversary Celebration!
Nov 14 2023
Full Interview with Explant Surgeon, Dr. Dev Vibhakar + My Explantiversary Celebration!
Listen to the full interview with my explant surgeon, Dr. Dev Vinhakar, recorded live on my 2-year explantiversary and the Empowered Explant podcast’s 1st birthday - 11/11!He answers so many important questions, including:What determines whether someone needs a lift or not?Is fat transfer a safe alternative for more volume?Does a breast lift affect nipple sensitivity?How dangerous is breast implant rupture?Why are drains important?What should patients do to prepare for surgery?What should women do after surgery during recovery?What is fluffing?What is the difference between removing implants over or under the muscle?What happens if some capsule is left behind?And more!!Also, don’t miss the 11 Days of Christmas Podcast Review Giveaway!With 11 amazing gifts and a Grand Prize valued at $787.Details here: www.empoweredexplant.com/reviewgiveawayLinks and resources:Connect with Dr. Dev and his team:Instagram: @drdevvdo + @peaceloveandplasticsurgery Email: beatriz@aquaplasticsurgery.com Website: https://aquaplasticsurgery.com/about/meet-dr-vibhakar/Download the 33 Step Explant Planning ChecklistChecklist.empoweredexplant.comGet the explant resources you need here:www.empoweredexplant.comNeed a coach? I’m your in corner. Reach out to me:darnah@empoweredexplant.comPlease help us be heard and raise awareness: Subscribe to the showRate and reviewShare with your friends Let's connect!Join the Empowered Explant Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredexplantConnect with Darnah on Instagram: @darnahmerciecaInterviews and sponsorships email: podcast@empoweredexplant.comMusic from Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/ilya-kuznetsov/anticipationDisclaimer: This podcast does not constitute medical or mental health advice. Darnah is not a medical practitioner. She shares from personal experience, research, and conversations with other people. If you are experiencing symptoms, pain, post-surgery complications, or mental health concerns, please seek care from your medical provider or surgeon.
SAVE THE DATE! An invite for my breasties!
Oct 31 2023
SAVE THE DATE! An invite for my breasties!
It's my 2 year explant anniversary PLUS the Empowered Explant podcast's 1 year birthday! This calls for an 11/11 celebration with my breasties!Join us for the Empowered Explant Podcast 1st Birthday celebration!  This online event will feature a live recording with our special guest, explant surgeon, Dr. Dev Vibhakar! Get ready to dive into insightful conversations about breast implant illness and explant surgery!Plus there'll be tons of fun stuff sprinkled in, here are the deets:Starts at 11am Central TimeGroup meditation at 11:11am CTLive podcast recording with Dr. Dev at 11:30am CT Q&AGiveawaysEveryone who attends LIVE will receive a special gift!Be sure to RSVP and save the date:To get the invite DM me or email me "11/11"IG @darnahmerciecaEmail darnah@empoweredexplant.comPlease help us be heard and raise awareness: Subscribe to the showRate and reviewShare with your friends Let's connect!Join the Empowered Explant Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredexplantConnect with Darnah on Instagram: @darnahmerciecaInterviews and sponsorships email: podcast@empoweredexplant.comMusic from Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/ilya-kuznetsov/anticipationDisclaimer: This podcast does not constitute medical or mental health advice. Darnah is not a medical practitioner. She shares from personal experience, research, and conversations with other people. If you are experiencing symptoms, pain, post-surgery complications, or mental health concerns, please seek care from your medical provider or surgeon.
5 Steps to Self-Forgiveness
Oct 24 2023
5 Steps to Self-Forgiveness
Being faced with removing your breast implants can come with whole lot of anger, resentment, shame, and regret. I believe forgiving yourself is one of the most crucial first steps in emotional healing. In this episode, I fully open up to what this has looked like for me, and the 5 steps I keep coming back to for relief and letting go of resentment towards myself and my choices.I truly believe this can help you too, breastie. Here are the prayers from the episode:“Inner guide, I recognize this resentment is causing me harm. My anger and attachment are not serving me. I'm willing to forgive. Thank you for showing me the way.”“Thank you, Universe, for helping me to forgive myself.”Links and resources:Get coaching support and guidance from me:www.empoweredexplant.com/supportJoin the Empowered Explant Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredexplantRead these books by Gabby Bernstein:Judgement DetoxHappy DaysThe Universe Has Your BackAlso listen to this episode:Grief, the forgotten emotionPlease help us be heard and raise awareness: Subscribe to the showRate and reviewShare with your friends Let's connect!Join the Empowered Explant Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredexplantConnect with Darnah on Instagram: @darnahmerciecaInterviews and sponsorships email: podcast@empoweredexplant.comMusic from Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/ilya-kuznetsov/anticipationDisclaimer: This podcast does not constitute medical or mental health advice. Darnah is not a medical practitioner. She shares from personal experience, research, and conversations with other people. If you are experiencing symptoms, pain, post-surgery complications, or mental health concerns, please seek care from your medical provider or surgeon.