Coping with Cancer’s Impact on Body Image

• Treatment for cancer can help manage or even cure the disease. It can also sometimes alter a patient’s appearance.

  Most people are familiar with common side effects of cancer treatment like hair and weight loss. But patients can also have scarring from surgery, rashes, or skin changes, as well as weight gain. They may have to wear an ostomy bag or even have a visible body part significantly altered or removed altogether.

  Sometimes changes to appearance go away after treatment ends, and other times they’re permanent. Either way, they can leave a patient feeling self-conscious, sad, or somehow “less than” their old self.

  If cancer treatments have altered your appearance, finding ways to cope can help you feel more comfortable with yourself—as well as your interactions with others.  

  Here are a few strategies that can make a difference.

  Give yourself permission to feel what you feel. You might feel silly for worrying about how treatment has changed your looks. But you shouldn’t. Your emotions—whether you’re feeling sadness, anger, frustration, a sense of loss, or something else—are valid, and healing often begins with acknowledging them.  

  Be active. Exercise can help you feel more energetic during and after treatment. And it can let you appreciate all the things your body is still capable of doing.

  Ask your care team about an activity plan that feels safe and manageable for you. Even gentle movement, like walking or stretching, can boost your energy, reduce stress, and help you feel stronger and more confident in your body.  

  Try something different. Learning a skill or hobby can be a big confidence booster. Find new ways to fill your time and experience joy. Even a new experience—like a fresh haircut or new clothes—may bring comfort and offer a fresh sense of control. Other people try yoga, art, or dance.  

  Connect with others. Consider going to a support group for people with your same type of cancer. Talking with others who’ve gone through the same thing as you can remind you that you’re not alone. Group members might have ideas for coping with the body changes you’re dealing with too.  

  Do what works for you. Some people choose to wear wigs, get tattoos to downplay their scars or celebrate their survivorship, or have reconstructive surgery. Others would rather let their appearance be what it is. All of these choices are equally valid, so think about what would make you feel the most comfortable in your own skin. Remember: There’s no single right way to cope.

  Talk about it when the time is right. You might wonder how to share your cancer journey and physical changes with someone new. You shouldn’t let those changes stop you from meeting new people, though you might consider waiting to talk about those changes until you feel a sense of trust and connection.  

  Know that you’re the same person. Cancer treatment may change the way you look on the outside. But it doesn’t change the person on the inside of you—and that’s the person those closest to you care about the most. You are more than your body and more than your cancer.  

  A specialized boutique to support your needs

  Fox Chase Cancer Center is home to a specialty boutique for patients throughout their treatment and recovery. Located on the first floor of Fox Chase’s Young Pavilion, Boo's Boutique offers a variety of products and services to help support you in your cancer journey, including breast forms and wig fittings and head coverings.  

  For more information, please call 215-728-2627.