We’ve all done things we’re not proud of—made decisions we wish we could undo and said things we’d like to take back. But very few of us have regrets as large and visible as those of Ethan “ModBoy” Bramble, a body fanatic from Australia who transformed his skin into a living canvas with over 200 tattoos. His story is one of self-expression, radical choices made in youth, and a courageous journey toward healing and self-acceptance.
In today’s world, tattooing has become a popular means of expressing individuality and creativity. Intricate, quirky designs adorn the bodies of millions, and for many, tattoos are a celebration of art and personal history. Yet, for Ethan, the extent of his ink was a decision made at an early age—one that he now views with mixed emotions.
Ethan’s journey into body modification began at the tender age of 11, when he decided to stretch his ears—a rite of passage for many who embrace body art. What started as a simple act of rebellion soon spiraled into a lifelong pursuit of extreme self-expression. Over the years, Ethan experimented with various procedures: from having his tongue split to undergoing the radical removal of his belly button. Each modification was a statement, a deliberate choice to push the boundaries of conventional beauty and to carve out his unique identity.
The transformation was not just about aesthetics; it was a deeply personal exploration of what it meant to be different. Tattoos, for many, serve as badges of honor or markers of significant life events. For Ethan, however, the decision to cover his entire body in ink was driven by a desire to stand out, to challenge societal norms, and to embrace a form of artistry that was entirely his own. But as the years passed, the initial thrill gave way to a sobering reality.
Ethan’s body became a living gallery, adorned with a vast array of tattoos that covered nearly every inch of his skin. The investment in his art was substantial—he revealed that he had spent approximately 60,000 AUD (roughly 39,000 USD) on his tattoos. For many, that figure might seem impressive, but for Ethan, it now represents a hefty price for choices made during a time of youthful exuberance.
In a candid interview with LadBibleTV’s No Filter series, Ethan opened up about his regrets. “I guess you could say I regret some tattoos,” he admitted. He went on to explain that there’s a significant difference between simply regretting a tattoo and wanting to be perceived differently by the world. His most profound regret, he revealed, lies in the tattoos on his face—a visible reminder of a past he now wishes he could rewrite.
Ethan expressed deep concern about the judgment he might face in everyday situations, such as taking his young daughter to school. “The face is a big thing that can lead to so many problems for yourself, which I probably wouldn’t want my daughter to have to deal with until she was a bit older,” he explained. His words reflect not only a personal desire for change but also a protective instinct as a parent.
The Road to Transformation: Reclaiming His Identity
Determined to reclaim his identity and ease the anxiety that his extensive face tattoos had brought him, Ethan embarked on a journey of transformation. For the past 12 months, he has been undergoing painful laser surgery treatments aimed at removing some of the tattoos that he now regrets. “I’ve been getting laser surgery, or have been, for pretty much 12 months… We do it in sections, but I’ve probably gone over the full thing six or seven times,” he shared.
The process is grueling and painful, both physically and emotionally. Yet, Ethan remains resolute, viewing it as an opportunity to clear the canvas and start anew. “I’m happy with the way that I look, but I’m also happy with the mentality that over the next two years, my face tattoos are going to become less and less,” he explained. For him, the removal process isn’t about erasing his past entirely, but rather about transforming it into something that no longer defines him in ways he no longer wishes to be seen.
The laser treatments have become a symbol of his broader journey—a metaphorical and literal clearing of the canvas on which he once painted his identity. With each session, Ethan takes one step closer to a version of himself that feels truer to who he is today. It’s a brave, ongoing process that requires both physical endurance and emotional strength.
Ethan’s story is not solely one of regret; it is also a narrative of personal growth and self-discovery. Reflecting on his journey, he acknowledged that while he is now ready to move past some of his earlier choices, he does not wish to completely erase the experiences that have shaped him. “I’m happy with the way that I look,” he affirmed, “but I want to change how I’m perceived. I want to shed a part of my past that causes me anxiety.”
This sentiment is one that many can relate to. As we grow older, the things that once defined us may no longer serve our best interests. For Ethan, the extensive tattoos—especially those on his face—have become a source of anxiety and regret, hindering his ability to engage confidently with the world. His journey toward transformation is a courageous acknowledgment that change is necessary, even when it means confronting painful memories and enduring discomfort.
The Broader Context: Tattoos, Identity, and Society
Tattoos have long been a subject of fascination and controversy. For centuries, they have been used as symbols of identity, rebellion, and personal storytelling. In today’s society, tattoos are widely accepted as a form of self-expression, celebrated for their artistry and individuality. Yet, there remains a limit to what society finds acceptable, particularly when it comes to highly visible tattoos that can influence how a person is perceived in professional and social settings.
Ethan’s experience highlights the complex relationship between body art and identity. While his tattoos once symbolized his unique spirit and creativity, they have also become a source of unwanted attention and anxiety. His journey underscores the idea that our perceptions of ourselves can change over time, and that what once seemed like a bold statement may later be viewed with regret. It raises important questions about how we define ourselves and the ways in which external appearances can influence our inner sense of worth.
The Impact on Family and Relationships
One of the most compelling aspects of Ethan’s transformation is its impact on his personal life, particularly his role as a parent. Like many individuals who have deeply marked their bodies, Ethan’s tattoos are a visible part of his identity—one that his daughter sees every day. The fear of subjecting her to judgment or unwanted attention is a driving force behind his decision to remove the tattoos from his face. It is a poignant reminder that our choices do not exist in isolation; they affect those we love, sometimes in profound ways.
Ethan’s determination to change his appearance is not merely about personal vanity—it’s about creating a future in which he can confidently engage with the world and shield his daughter from any negative perceptions associated with his past. His journey serves as an inspiring example of how a parent can make difficult, transformative decisions for the sake of their family’s well-being.
A Call for Empathy and Understanding
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to judge others for their past decisions. However, Ethan’s story reminds us that every person’s journey is unique, marked by a series of choices that shape who they become. His willingness to publicly acknowledge his regrets and undergo a painful transformation is a testament to his resilience and desire for growth.
It’s important for society to approach such journeys with empathy and understanding. Body modifications, no matter how extensive, are personal choices—one that may be revisited as individuals evolve and gain new perspectives on life. Rather than casting judgment, we should celebrate the courage it takes to embrace change, even when it means confronting parts of our past that no longer serve us.
