After you've had a mastectomy, it may be emotionally overwhelming. You may think about the fact that you've just been treated for a serious disease. You have had an operation that has changed your appearance, perhaps your self-image. You might wonder how the mastectomy will affect your lifestyle and your personal relationships. You may be unsure as how to act toward family and friends.
Every woman reacts to a mastectomy differently.
You can take steps to ease your emotional adjustment. Express your feelings to your doctor, clinical coordinator, and the people close to you. This will help your doctor understand what you need to fully recover, and it will help your family and friends to share your difficulties and to help you work through them. Your family and friends can be your strongest supporters, but they may not know how to show their support. You can help them by being open and honest about the way you feel.