Mastectomy Comics
I started this series of mastectomy comics while recovering from a bilateral mastectomy in early 2021. I opted for the procedure due to a diagnosis of DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ, the earliest stage of breast cancer where abnormal cells are confined to the milk ducts), and a BRCA2 genetic mutation that increases risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
During the process of scheduling my surgery, I learned that breast numbness was an expected outcome of my breast reconstruction, which shocked me. After panicking and doing online research, I was lucky enough to find a wonderful surgeon, Dr. Anne Peled, who specializes in sensation-preserving mastectomies.
A few people have kindly told me these comics were helpful while navigating similar experiences, and so I decided to create a space for them on my website that anyone can access. ​
You can also see two of my published comics on this topic here:
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"My Double Mastectomy Made Me Reevaluate: What Do My Breasts Mean to Me?" The Washington Post
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"Regaining Breast Sensation" ohjoysextoy.com
After sharing this comic on Instagram, someone told me they ALSO noticed more intense body odor after surgery, but that it eventually resolved (as did mine!)
