Why Kathy Bates Decided Against Reconstruction Surgery After Double Mastectomy for Breast Cancer

Kathy Bates is getting candid about her cancer journey.

After being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012 at age 64 and undergoing a double mastectomy, the American Horror Story alum opted not to have reconstruction surgery to restore her breasts.

“At the age I was, I thought, ‘You know, I really don’t wanna go through that,’” Kathy, 76, told Christina Applegate and Jamie-Lynn Sigler on the Nov. 12 episode of their MeSsy podcast. “I just didn’t wanna go through it. I wasn’t in a relationship, I was older, and I didn’t think that I would be in a relationship. So I was kind of like, ‘Why do I have to?’”

And the Oscar winner—who was also diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2003—had another reason for foregoing the procedure.

“The other thing—this is really weird, maybe—but I had really heavy breasts,” she shared. “They were, like, 10 pounds when they removed them, and I kind of enjoy not having breasts.”

Plus, she can fake it when she needs. Take, for instance, on the legal drama, Matlock, where the team has devised a camisole-like garment for her to wear underneath her wardrobe, which she compared to Spanx.

“They put little false-y cups in it, and they’re so comfortable, and they give me a nice shape,” she raved. “And that’s it.”

Kathy previously discussed her decision not to have reconstruction surgery in 2018, saying she didn’t want to take time out of her busy work schedule for the operation and recovery.

“Acting is my life force,” she told People at the time. “I’m having too much fun.”

And above all, she encouraged other women to get regular check-ups and stay on top of their health.

“Quit taking the damn selfies and worrying about what you look like,” she added. “Instead, keep everything working and in good order.”

Keep reading to see more inspiring stars who’ve conquered cancer.

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