"Stop Trying to Give Me My Boobs Back" Reclaims the Breast Cancer Scar

Our relationship with our breasts is deeply personal, especially for those who are going through cancer. In a powerful move to shift the narrative and spread awareness, survivor Emily Voreas joined forces with photographer Diane Villadsen and writer Julia Segal for a new campaign titled "Stop Trying to Give Me My Boobs Back." The project spotlights the choice to opt for a flat closure after a mastectomy, becoming a "flattie" and reclaiming beauty beyond reconstruction.

The photo series showcases seven women who are embracing their "flatitude," no implant necessary. Each woman who is modeling in "Stop Trying to Give Me My Boobs Back" is also sharing a personal essay, in which they write about finding their sexuality again, their relationship with their scars and more.

According to the trio, "a recent survey found that 62% of women now choose to go flat, with women under 50 leading the movement." The growing trend is not to get the breast reconstructed, but many say that their doctors are not giving patients that choice. These individuals sometimes also get "flat denial," in which a surgeon will deny a request for a flat closure surgery.

"Cancer puts things into perspective for me. I wanted to prioritize getting back to my life as soon as possible, with as few surgeries as possible," Voreas said in a press statement. "I loved my boobs but I did not love bras or the fear of future breast cancers. Now, I truly feel free."

You can check out "Stop Trying to Give Me My Boobs Back" in its entirety here.

For more beauty news, check out our coverage of Lauren Luxenberg's "In Power" film.

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