Skip to content

Should the children see the surgical scars?

Page last modified on: August 15, 2008
Question from fran: My children want to see my surgical scars. I've been avoiding showing them, yet I have to ask them for help in lifting things and doing regular chores. How should I handle these situations?
Answers —Marisa Weiss, M.D., president and founder: If you were used to being naked in front of your children before your diagnosis, then you should look for the time to ease into that normal pattern. It's very important to let your child know what your body looks like before they actually see it. Please look at the reconstruction pictures in our Picture of Treatment Section, as well as the pictures of surgery. Once again, helping your child understand what to expect will make this adjustment to seeing you naked again much easier.
Joan Hermann, L.S.W.: It's important, as we said before, that a mother should do what is comfortable for her, what she is used to in that regard.
Marisa Weiss, M.D., president and founder: If you did not show your children your naked body before, then now is not the time for doing it. And be sure you ask the child why they want to see it. What are they imagining is there? What are they scared of?

On Wednesday, August 16, 2000, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Kids and Mom's Breast Cancer. Joan Hermann, L.S.W. and moderator Marisa Weiss, M.D. answered your questions about talking to your kids about breast cancer.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

A production of LiveWorld, Inc.
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.

Together we can make a difference

Email Updates

Stay informed about current research, online events, and more.

Please leave this field empty

Meet the Experts

Joan Hermann, L.S.W. is the director of social work services at the renowned Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia.

Marisa Weiss, M.D. is a radiation oncologist specializing in breast cancer and the founder, president, and guiding force behind Breastcancer.org.

Back to top

Breastcancer.org 7 East Lancaster Avenue, 3rd Floor Ardmore, PA 19003

Learn more about our commitment to your privacy

© 2010 Breastcancer.org - All rights reserved.

Breastcancer.org is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing information and community to those touched by this disease. Learn more about our commitment to providing complete, accurate, and private breast cancer information.