Olivia Munn Reflects on the Emotional Impact of Double Mastectomy Surgery

Olivia Munn Recalls Shock of Seeing Her Body After Having a Double Mastectomy

Olivia Munn Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

Olivia Munn had a hard time adjusting to her new reality after having a double mastectomy. The 43-year-old underwent the procedure in May 2023 following a breast cancer diagnosis. Just one week later, she went back to the hospital to have her bandages removed.

When Munn spoke to People in a story released on Wednesday, April 17, she shared her initial reaction to seeing herself for the first time after surgery. It was a shocking experience for her. She described it as incredibly difficult. Despite her doctor's reassurance that the surgery was successful, Munn still felt numb. She called it a "shock to the system."

“I had such a hard time,” Munn continued. “I remember just looking in the mirror with him and just having no emotion, just taking in what he was saying.”

Olivia Munn Recalls Shock of Seeing Her Body After Having a Double Mastectomy

Olivia Munn Courtesy of Olivia Munn/Instagram

After leaving the hospital, Munn explained, the emotional floodgates eventually opened.

She said, "When I got home, I undressed and looked in the mirror again, and that’s when I just absolutely broke down."

Munn has since had reconstructive surgery, which has made things “much better.”

She pointed out, "It's different, but that's alright."

Starting in November 2023, the actress started hormone suppression therapy to reduce her chances of cancer in the future. This treatment led to her experiencing menopause earlier than expected. Despite the challenges she faced, she remains grateful for her fortunate circumstances.

"I feel really lucky to have the chance to fight," Munn expressed with joy. "Not everyone in my position has this opportunity, so I am truly thankful."

After being diagnosed, Munn found the decision-making process regarding surgery to be quite daunting.

"It's overwhelming with all the information and big decisions you have to make for your future," she shared. "I thought I was ready, but the reality hit me hard. Dealing with the emotions and the physical changes was much harder than I anticipated."

Munn now affectionately refers to her surgical scars as her "battle wounds." She proudly shows them off as a reminder of the precious moments she gets to enjoy with her 2-year-old son, Malcolm, whom she co-parents with partner John Mulaney.

"When I'm with [Malcolm], my mind is free from thoughts of being unwell," she shared. "Being with him brings me so much joy and helps me see things more clearly. No matter what physical changes I may go through, I will always be his mother. Whether it's hot flashes or losing my hair, the most important thing is that I am here for him."

Editor's P/S:

Olivia Munn's account of her post-mastectomy experience is a poignant and courageous reminder of the physical and emotional challenges that cancer survivors face. Her initial shock and numbness at seeing herself post-surgery are understandable, as are the overwhelming emotions that followed. Munn's determination to embrace her "battle wounds" and focus on the joy of motherhood is an inspiring testament to the human spirit's resilience.

The actress's candid sharing of her experiences also sheds light on the importance of emotional support and self-care for cancer survivors. Munn's partner and son have provided her with solace and a sense of purpose, helping her navigate the difficult physical and emotional changes she has undergone. Her story underscores the need for comprehensive care that addresses not only the medical aspects of cancer but also the psychological and social challenges that survivors face.