Why We Change Our Bodies: Tattoos, Botox, Surgery & Self-Image

The Midlife Mud

Tattoos in New Zealand. Botox in your 40s. Breast implants, piercings, fillers—why do we change our bodies? In this episode, we unpack the messy middle ground between self-expression and societal pressure.

We share our own stories (yes, including matching family tattoos) and talk honestly about:

• Why people pursue tattoos, piercings, cosmetic surgery, Botox, and fillers
• The rising trend of cosmetic procedures at younger ages
• How cultural beauty standards fuel body modification
• The tension between external appearance and internal identity
• The importance of knowing your “why” before making changes

We’re not here to judge—we’re here to ask the deeper questions: Are these choices truly about self-acceptance, or about fitting in?

Referenced in this episode:

• Nature article on aging
  
• Dove commercial: “Would You Change Something About Your Body?”
  

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