By: Joshua Finley

Empowered Explant, founded by board-certified health and wellness coach Darnah Mercieca, is reshaping women’s wellness and redefining beauty standards by providing personalized support for those navigating breast implant removal. Combining her own transformative experience with professional expertise, Darnah has created a platform that empowers women to prioritize their health, build confidence, and embrace a renewed sense of self.

In recent years, awareness of breast implant illness (BII) has grown significantly, leading more women to choose breast implant removal. BII is an umbrella term describing a wide range of systemic symptoms that can arise after getting breast implants, often including chronic fatigue, brain fog, joint pain, and skin conditions. Complications such as implant rupture or capsular contracture further underscore the need for accessible resources and support. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued boxed warnings and recalls for certain implants, yet many women remain unaware of the potential health risks.

Photo Courtesy: Empowered Explant / Darnah Mercieca

Darnah’s personal journey began with these challenges after she decided to get breast implants at 23 years old to improve her self-confidence. A decade later, after experiencing health struggles suspected to be linked to her implants, she opted for explant surgery in November 2021, performed by Dr. Dev Vibhakar at Aqua Plastic Surgery in Miami. Her recovery, marked by relief from debilitating symptoms and a newfound vitality, inspired her to found Empowered Explant. The platform has since become a lifeline for thousands of women, offering tailored coaching, comprehensive wellness protocols, and a supportive community.

Empowered Explant: A Path to Healing

Empowered Explant offers a range of services to address the explant process’s physical, emotional, and logistical aspects. The platform’s podcast, with over 60 episodes, serves as a cornerstone resource, covering essential topics such as surgery preparation, recovery, body image, detoxification, and mental health. Empowered Explant’s private Facebook group provides a supportive space where women can connect, share experiences, and find encouragement throughout their journey.

“Explant surgery isn’t just about changing your breast size—it can transform your health and your life,” says Darnah, who experienced a radical shift in her self-worth and overall well-being. She has witnessed similar transformations in many of the women she supports, including her mother, who was inspired to explant a year after her daughter. These experiences reinforce Darnah’s commitment to a holistic approach that integrates nutrition, lifestyle changes, and mindfulness practices to support each woman’s unique healing journey.

Empowered Explant’s commitment to personalized care sets it apart. From guiding clients through surgical consultations to crafting post-operative wellness plans, Darnah provides expert advice tailored to individual needs. Client testimonials illustrate the platform’s profound impact:

Photo Courtesy: Empowered Explant / Darnah Mercieca

“Darnah gave me the support I needed to heal my body and was the perfect bridge between me and my surgeon. She was there for literally every step of my explant journey. She was vital to helping me navigate my healing and full recovery.” — Tiffany.

“Thank you so much for your support and the creation of the group. It all made me feel a lot less lonely. Super glad I did it and grateful for everything, including the podcasts you’ve done.” — Emily

A Movement for Women’s Health and Empowerment

Empowered Explant’s mission extends beyond coaching; it is a movement dedicated to promoting informed decision-making, emotional resilience, and community connection for women considering or undergoing explant surgery. As public figures like Mel Robbins, Clare Crawley, and Crystal Hefner share their stories of recovery from BII, platforms like Empowered Explant are vital in providing resources and guidance. By addressing both the physical and emotional parts of explanting, Empowered Explant helps women embrace empowerment and self-confidence in their journey.

In addition to supporting women through explant surgery, Darnah is passionate about educating young women and girls about the risks of breast implants before undergoing augmentation. This includes fostering emotional well-being as a foundation for body acceptance and confidence. “I want to help women recognize that their worth isn’t defined by their appearance and encourage them to address deeper insecurities through therapy and emotional support before making a decision to alter their bodies through cosmetic surgery,” she shares. By broadening the conversation to include prevention and education, Empowered Explant aims to create a ripple effect of informed, empowered choices for the next generation.

Photo Courtesy: Empowered Explant (@empoweredexplant) / Darnah Mercieca (@darnahmercieca)

Practical Advice for Women Considering Explant Surgery

Darnah offers key tips for those navigating the explant process:

• Be informed: Understand the symptoms of BII and explore the types of explant procedures available. Empowered Explant’s podcast is an excellent starting point, providing a wealth of knowledge to help women make informed decisions.
• Consult experienced surgeons: Research and meet with surgeons specializing in explant surgery to determine the best approach for your circumstances. Going into consultations with prepared questions can help ensure a personalized and effective plan.
• Join a supportive community: Engaging with other women on a similar journey can ease feelings of isolation, offer valuable insights, and create meaningful connections. The Empowered Explant Facebook group provides a welcoming space for support and shared experiences.
• Focus on self-care: Prepare your body and mind by prioritizing an anti-inflammatory diet, incorporating gentle, targeted exercises, and practicing mindfulness to reduce stress and support recovery.

Looking Ahead

As Empowered Explant celebrates its third anniversary, it remains steadfast in its mission to empower women with clarity, support, and confidence. By addressing the unique challenges of breast implant removal, the platform helps women reclaim their health and reconnect with their authentic selves.

For free resources, explant-specific wellness protocols, and personalized coaching, visit Empowered Explant. Connect with Darnah Mercieca on Instagram at @darnahmercieca or join the thriving Empowered Explant Facebook Community.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, nor does it replace professional medical expertise or treatment. If you have any health concerns or questions, always consult a physician or other healthcare professional.

Published by: Josh Tatunay