Singer Tulisa, 37, discloses a recent Bell’s palsy attack and minor short-term paralysis, prompting her to cancel an egg retrieval procedure amid ongoing health challenges and recent life stressors.
Instagram Update on Highs and Lows
Tulisa shares an authentic glimpse into her recent experiences with followers on Instagram, highlighting both triumphs and trials. She describes nicotine withdrawal as “hellish” after two months smoke-free, a hormonal rollercoaster leading to the egg retrieval postponement due to low count, and successful surgery removing three cysts.
The procedure, performed by Darrylc Coombes, addresses long-standing issues linked to facial swelling and Bell’s palsy. Tulisa expresses gratitude, noting previous dismissals by other doctors who suspected excessive filler use.
‘Trying to turn my insta into a place of authenticity. All that crazy life experience into a bit of inspo & tools for others. Which includes sharing my highs & the lows!’
She continues: ‘This week/month had challenges: Nicotine Withdrawals: HELLISH, but I’m now 2 months cig free. Hormonal Roller Coaster: Canceled my recent egg retrieval due to low count (Not surprised with how my body felt). Frustrating but ok due to previous great success. Stress/hormones/nicotine withdrawals have been crazy.’
Devastating Friend’s Diagnosis Triggers Setback
The same day as her surgery, Tulisa learns her close friend Shelly faces aggressive cancer, requiring chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The emotional toll, combined with post-surgery effects, triggers vomiting and subsequent Bell’s palsy flare-up.
Although she left her steroids behind initially, she obtains them within 24 hours. Tulisa anticipates the minor paralysis lasting about a week. She emphasizes perspective: ‘Nothing compared to what my Shelly is going through. Currently in bed recovering nicely from it all.’
Background on Bell’s Palsy and Cysts
Tulisa first experienced Bell’s palsy in 2020, a condition causing facial weakness due to nerve damage. It led to a cycle of filler injections to balance her appearance, exacerbating inflammation.
An ultrasound later reveals three chronically infected cysts in her cheek, one bursting during surgery and immediately reducing swelling. Tulisa states: ‘I’ve no idea what they were caused by, they weren’t filler, they were just self-occurring, but I came out of the operation and instantly my face was less swollen.’
She links the cysts to prior issues like tingling sensations, burning cheek pain, and conditions including sarcoidosis and immune disorders. Symptoms worsened during her 2022 N-Dubz reunion tour.
Now cyst-free, Tulisa limits filler to her lips only. She highlights personal growth: ‘My inner work over the past 6 months has helped build a better baseline. Even in lows, I bounce back quicker.’
Tulisa concludes with resilience: ‘Life isn’t constant happiness, it’s a series of ups & downs that define being ALIVE. It’s up to u to choose ur thoughts/perceptions.’
