Perceptions of beauty are subjective, and for Jessy Kirkpatrick, a 27-year-old Kansas-based blogger, extreme body modifications have become a powerful form of self-expression and confidence. Despite facing criticism and negative comments, Kirkpatrick remains steadfast in their belief that these modifications contribute to their own sense of beauty and well-being.
Growing up, Kirkpatrick felt unsatisfied with their appearance. In their teenage years, they started making small modifications to their body, such as piercings, in an effort to redefine themselves. Over time, their aspirations for self-expression escalated, leading them to invest in stretched septums, nostrils, lips, and tongues, along with silicone horn implants and striking face and neck tattoos.
Unsurprisingly, Kirkpatrick’s unique appearance has attracted attention and judgment from others. They have been called “ugly” and even a “freak,” with some people going as far as saying they are destined for hell. However, Kirkpatrick remains unswayed by these opinions. They firmly believe that they have the right to choose who they want to be and how they want to look. After all, the most important perspective is how they see themselves.
It is interesting to note that Kirkpatrick’s journey towards extreme body modifications has had a profound impact on their mental health. Despite previous struggles with anorexia, they have never felt more content and self-assured. This transformation has not hindered their ability to find work either. By wearing clear jewelry to conceal their modifications, Kirkpatrick has successfully communicated their desire for self-expression to their employers, who have been understanding and supportive.
While their family initially had concerns about Kirkpatrick’s choices, they have now become strong advocates. Kirkpatrick’s mother, father, and brother admire their courage and view their modifications as an expression of individuality. This support has played a crucial role in empowering Kirkpatrick to explore even more modifications in the future. Their ambitions include eyeball tattoos, scarification, a full-body blackout suit, dermals, a split tongue, tattoos under their tongue, a larger stretched labret, larger nostrils, a larger septum, and five-inch earlobes.
Kirkpatrick’s story challenges existing stereotypes about body modifications and the impact they can have on one’s life. Despite facing criticism and being labeled as “ugly” by internet trolls, they have remained resolute in their self-expression because, ultimately, their idea of beauty transcends societal norms and expectations.
What are your thoughts on extreme body modification? We would love to hear from you in the comments!
