Angelina Jolie has candidly discussed her double mastectomy, sharing images of her scars for the first time.
The actress posed for TIME France, revealing her scars a dozen years after undergoing the procedure in 2013.
During the interview, Jolie explained the deep motivation behind her choice to reveal her scars now. She aims to send a message that having the surgery does not lessen her in any way.
At 50, Jolie made it clear that she opted for the surgery not due to any diagnosed cancer but because she carries the BRCA1 gene.
This particular gene heightens the risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer.
To mitigate this risk, Jolie decided to undergo a preventative double mastectomy.
In the photoshoot, she wore a low-cut black sweater that subtly displayed the scars from her surgery.
Explaining why she chose to reveal them now, Jolie stated: “I share these scars with many women I love. And I’m always moved when I see other women share theirs.
“I wanted to join them, knowing that TIME France would be sharing information about breast health, prevention, and knowledge about breast cancer.”
Previously, Jolie spoke to Hello! at the San Sebastian Film Festival about losing her mother and grandmother at a young age.
“I have the BRCA gene, so I chose to have a double mastectomy a decade ago,” she shared. “And then I’ve also had my ovaries removed, because that’s what took my mother.”
Her mother, Marcheline Bertrand, passed away at the age of 56 in 2007.
Jolie expressed that she stands by her decision, emphasizing the importance of personal choice.
She remarked: “Those are my choices. I don’t say everybody should do it that way, but it’s important to have the choice. And I don’t regret it.”
The Oscar-winning actress mentioned that part of her reason for the procedure was to assure her children that they wouldn’t lose her to cancer.
“It is reassuring that they see nothing that makes them uncomfortable,” she added. “They can see my small scars, and that’s it.
“Everything else is just Mommy, the same as she always was. And they know that I love them and will do anything to be with them as long as I can.”
Jolie also conveyed a sense of empowerment from her decision, commenting: “On a personal note, I do not feel any less of a woman.
“I feel empowered that I made a strong choice that in no way diminishes my femininity.”
If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and wish to speak with someone confidentially, reach out to the American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345 or use their live chat feature, available 24/7 every day of the year.