Surgical breast reconstruction is seen by many women as the only procedure that will ultimately enable transcendence of the temporary, mastectomized state and facilitate rehabilitation of their 'true', familiar, embodied self. Unlike other texts examining breast cancer experience, this book argues that this self-understanding is profoundly influenced by breast cancer culture and the medicalization of the post-surgical body. In addition the research establishes a strong link between, on the one hand, the personal feelings and actions of women with breast cancer, and on the other, powerful discourses and practices of the breast cancer movement.

An examination of surgical breast reconstruction which establishes a strong link between, on the one hand, the personal feelings and actions of women with breast cancer, and on the other, powerful discourses and practices of the breast cancer movement.