For many women, breasts symbolise femininity and attractiveness, and a mastectomy, which is the surgical removal of one or both breasts, can significantly impact a woman’s self-confidence and body image.
The scars left by the breast surgery and the physical changes that result from a mastectomy can make it difficult for women to feel comfortable in their new skin. Common struggles for women after losing a breast include feeling less “feminine” or worrying that they will be less attractive to their partner. Coping with a mastectomy’s emotional and physical aftermath can be a difficult journey. Women need access to support and resources to help them navigate this challenging experience.
Impact of Mastectomy on Self-Image
The patient’s perception of her new body image is amongst the psychosocial effects that emerge due to mastectomy. In the Body Image of Women with Breast Cancer After Mastectomy: A Qualitative Research, published in J Breast Health, [1] many women spoke about the negative impact of an altered appearance on their body image. After a mastectomy, many women described what they saw as a “wretched, horrible, scary, ugly, crooked, collapsed body shape.” But the most commonly used description of their appearance was that they looked incomplete because they did not have their breast(s).
Finding Emotional Support Post-Surgery
Beyond physical changes, an experience with breast cancer can also affect a woman’s mental well-being. While loved ones want to be there for her, it is sometimes hard to have tough conversations with those she is closest to. Finding a like-minded community is essential so the patient can talk openly about her experiences, ask for help, and know that she isn’t alone.
Club Solis provides breast cancer patients with a support network in their journey against breast cancer. Through Club’s Solis befriender programme and hearing stories from patients who have undergone breast cancer, women can find reassurance and courage to take charge of their breast health. Club Solis also provides rehabilitation and nutrition advice for women who have breast cancer.
How to boost self-esteem after mastectomy
Rather than dwelling on self-blame or despair, use the opportunity to explore and redefine one’s identity after overcoming breast cancer. The experience may have uncovered hidden areas of resilience [2] previously unknown to the patient. A woman who has undergone mastectomy may have also developed a newfound appreciation for different new hobbies or gained a fresh perspective on her personal values and beliefs. In addition, revisiting priorities and aspirations can help a woman recovering from a mastectomy to set new realistic goals, and her support network or breast cancer physician can assist her in identifying achievable objectives.
By pinpointing the societal messages and beauty norms that she has internalised from the media and other external sources, the patient can actively choose new standards that align with her values and priorities. It is also crucial for a woman who has undergone mastectomy to give herself the space and time to prioritise self-care over the persistent pressure to perform acts of kindness for others constantly. In doing so, the patient can shift her focus towards cultivating personal fulfilment and contentment
How to address physical changes after mastectomy/ Shopping for clothes after mastectomy
If the patient foregoes reconstructive surgery after mastectomy, she’ll find that many of her old clothes no longer fit her new body. Instead of despairing, use this opportunity to shop for new clothes and try out different clothing styles. Wearing the proper clothing during her recovery may also help prevent the irritation of areas that may still be tender. The patient doesn’t have to sacrifice style for comfort, either. There are many suitable outfits that the woman can wear that are chic yet casual and, most importantly, comfortable. In addition, post-cancer care partners like Can-Care offers a wide range of personalised care products for breast cancer patients, including mastectomy bra, mastectomy camisole and mastectomy swimwear.
When shopping for post-mastectomy shirts, go for a gentle fabric on the skin to prevent chafing and irritation. Cotton is a good choice because it’s lightweight, soft, and allows air to flow freely. Also, consider a roomy button-up or flowy dress and skirt for a stylish look.
How to move forward after mastectomy
Engage in physical activity
After undergoing a mastectomy or breast reconstruction surgery, it’s important to prioritise rest and physical activity. Gentle stretching, arm circles, seated side bends, and shoulder rolls are some exercises that the patient can perform in the week after surgery. During the initial recovery period, walking is a great activity to include in the patient’s routine until her breast cancer specialist gives her the okay to engage in more intense cardiovascular exercise. By starting with low-impact movement like walking, the patient can gradually build up her strength and endurance while minimising the risk of injury.
When exercising in the weeks after her mastectomy or breast reconstruction surgery, it’s normal for the patient to experience some tightness in her chest and armpit, but this should decrease as she does her exercises over time, according to the American Cancer Society.
Focus on good nutritious food
To combat fatigue and nausea, incorporating delicious and energising food into the patient’s diet can significantly enhance her overall well-being. Breast cancer-fighting food, such as phytonutrients, is found in plant-based foods, including fruits, vegetables, beans and grains. These include dark yellow/orange/green vegetables and fruits, cruciferous vegetables, garlic, soybeans, green tea and broccoli.[4]
By adopting a positive mindset, focusing on self-care and seeking support, a breast cancer patient can regain her confidence and move forward with a sense of purpose and resilience. It’s important to remember that everyone’s journey is unique, and there is no “right” way to cope with the challenges of breast cancer. Through exploring new hobbies, redefining one’s identity and cultivating a support network, a breast cancer patient can emerge from the experience with newfound strength and appreciation for life’s precious moments.
[1] J Breast Health, Body Image of Women with Breast Cancer After Mastectomy: A Qualitative Research
[2] Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Body image and breast cancer: a resource for women
[3] Healthline, Exercise After Mastectomy and Breast Reconstruction: What You Need To Know
[4] Cleveland Clinic, The Best Foods To Eat When You Have Breast Cancer
