Cancer Research UK main site
  • Replies 1 reply
  • Views 148 views
  • Users 0 members are here

Body Image

Sugarsnap3
Offline

I had a laparatomy to remove an ovarian cyst but my body image has been very poor since. I keep thinking that I'm fat and unattractive. I have this horrible incision scar, my stomach feels lumpy and weird and I feel that I'm getting depressed over it. Is that common? I can't be the only one struggling with my body image after such an invasive procedure. I can't even exercise yet to try to fix my body and make myself look ok again. 

  • Hi Sugarsnap3,

    I can understand this must be difficult and it will probably be quite an adjustment. Hopefully in time your feelings will shift or improve, particularly once you are able to get back to more normality and exercising.

    Ultimately this was a necessary process so perhaps in time you will be able to reframe it in light of this and to see the scar as a side effect for the benefit of your wider health.

    No doubt your feelings are common with others who have been through something similar - hopefully you will receive further replies on the forum soon, particularly if others here have similar feelings to share.

    Wishing you all the best,

    Ben
    Cancer Chat Moderator

Speak to a nurse

Quick links

Follow us

Registered with Fundraising Regulator (logo)
Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ.