Danniella Westbrook has expressed profound exhaustion and a feeling of having "nothing left" as she prepares for her seventh facial surgery, which will involve grafting rib cartilage to reconstruct her face. The 52-year-old actress is engaged in an 18-month reconstructive journey to repair her facial structure, a process stemming from a collapsed septum that developed after years of drug abuse.
In a recent interview on Vanessa Feltz's YouTube show, Westbrook shared the cumulative physical and mental impact of these extensive medical procedures. She revealed that while she has already undergone six surgeries, she anticipates needing at least four more. The prospect of additional operations has left her feeling depleted, stating, "I'm at that stage now where I come around from surgery with the last two and I've been like no more."
Her next surgery is scheduled for October, during which doctors intend to reshape and support her nose using cartilage from her ribs. Westbrook explained the complexity of the procedure, noting the significant anesthesia and lengthy operating times, often five to six hours per session. The recovery periods are also taking a considerable toll, contributing to her feeling of extreme fatigue.
Despite her weariness, Westbrook is committed to completing the necessary surgeries, emphasizing the functional necessity for her to breathe properly. "I have to because it's respiratory I have to be able to breathe properly," she stated.
Westbrook has previously undergone other reconstructive procedures, including a full face, neck, and brow lift, along with lip and nose reconstruction in Dubai earlier this year. She also shared that osteoporosis has affected her facial bones, particularly on one side of her face where bone has been lost. This necessitates further reconstructive work, including the planned implantation of a metal cheekbone to address bone corrosion.
She expressed trust in her surgeon, Dr. Parviz Sadigh, who has performed previous operations. Westbrook first gained prominence on the television show 'EastEnders' at the age of 16. Her contract with the show was terminated in 1996 due to her struggles with cocaine addiction.