Judith Lucy Details Difficult Recovery After Double Breast Removal: 'They Don't Grow Back?'
Australian comedian Judith Lucy has revealed that she is struggling with the physical and emotional effects of her double mastectomy, describing the physical and emotional challenges of recovery after undergoing surgery for breast cancer. The 58-year-old shared her latest health update in a social media video, discussing the changes to her body following the removal of both breasts.
In an Instagram post on 10 November 2026, Lucy posted her latest health update, in which she described soreness, redness, flaky skin and an inflamed rash during her recovery. She also acknowledged the difficulty of adjusting to her appearance, using humour to address the permanent changes caused by surgery and the broader challenges of recovery.
Judith Lucy Opens up About Recovery After Double Mastectomy
Lucy acknowledged that adjusting to life without breasts has been difficult, having previously said she was comfortable with her decision to undergo the procedure. She joked about her changed appearance, asking, 'They don't grow back?' while describing the discomfort she has experienced since the operation.
The comedian said that although losing her breasts was not ideal, surviving cancer remained more important. Her latest comments followed an October social media post in which she shared a photograph showing her appearance after surgery.
In her 27 October 2026 update, Lucy said initial indications suggested the cancer had not spread to her lymph nodes, describing the news as a significant relief for both herself and her medical team.
Breast Cancer Diagnosis Led to More Extensive Surgery
Lucy first publicly disclosed her breast cancer diagnosis on 6 October 2026, explaining that an abnormal mammogram had prompted further investigation. She described the disease as relatively non-aggressive and detected at an early stage.
Her doctors initially planned a lumpectomy, but additional cancer was discovered during the procedure, leading to a recommendation for a mastectomy.
Although cancer had been identified in one breast, Lucy chose to have both removed. She subsequently shared a farewell photograph before undergoing the operation in mid-October. In a report by The Guardian, Lucy said before the surgery that she was not planning breast reconstruction at that time.
Lucy has also spoken openly about an accident that occurred nine days after she received her diagnosis. She revealed that she fell and struck her head against a small table after mixing medication with alcohol.
That particular incident left her with a cut near her temple and bruising around one eye, prompting her to warn against mixing alcohol and medication.
Lucy Encourages Women To Attend Breast Cancer Screenings
Throughout her treatment, Lucy has urged women to attend regular mammograms and investigate changes in their breasts. She explained that her own cancer could not be detected by touch and was identified through screening.
The comedian's experience highlights the importance of mammograms in detecting abnormalities before noticeable symptoms develop.
According to Cancer Council Australia, BreastScreen Australia invites women aged 50 to 74 to receive free mammograms every two years. Women aged 40 to 49 and those aged 75 and older can also access free screening, although they are not routinely invited.
People experiencing breast symptoms should consult a doctor rather than rely on routine screening appointments.