Nanne Grönvall compares breast prosthetics after cancer to trying on new shoes

Swedish artist Nanne Grönvall has spoken openly about her decision-making process after undergoing a mastectomy following a second breast cancer diagnosis, comparing the experience of choosing a breast prosthetic to “trying on new shoes,” reports SVT Nyheter.

Grönvall received the diagnosis during a routine mammogram, leading to the removal of her entire breast. She now faces a choice between remaining flat, reconstructive surgery, or using a prosthetic.

“When I found out they would need to remove my breast, I said they could take both if necessary. That’s how I felt,” she told SVT. After the surgery, she declined immediate reconstruction, opting instead to “land and let it heal” before making a decision.

In the interim, Grönvall has been testing different breast prosthetics. “They had breasts in all different shapes and sizes, which they help you try out,” she described. She emphasized that femininity and confidence are not defined by physical appearance: “Breasts are associated with ‘womanhood,’ but we’re just as cool and sexy either way.”

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Sweden, with over 9,000 new cases annually. Around 2,000 women each year undergo mastectomies, often facing similar choices about reconstruction or prosthetics.

A longer report featuring Grönvall’s story will air on Aktuellt at 21:00 tonight.