- Nicole was diagnosed with a rare stage 2 breast cancer in December 2023 and underwent multiple treatments before surgery.
- Her August 2025 mastectomy included breast reconstruction and lymph node removal, leading to a challenging recovery.
- Nicole emphasizes managing pain with medication and mental distraction, advising patients to “watch garbage and take painkillers.”
- The emotional rollercoaster, including “scanxiety,” is a critical part of cancer survivorship she openly discusses.
- Hormone therapy or hysterectomy will be next steps in her ongoing treatment plan to prevent recurrence.
Nicole Eggert, known for her roles in Baywatch and Charles in Charge, revealed in January 2024 that she was diagnosed with stage 2 cribriform carcinoma breast cancer, a rare form of breast cancer. She first experienced severe pain in her left breast accompanied by a rapid 25-pound weight gain within three months. Initially mistaking these symptoms for menopause, she was alarmed upon finding a lump during a self-examination in October 2023. Further tests confirmed the diagnosis in December 2023, plunging her into a challenging health battle that she has courageously shared with fans and the public for awareness and support.
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Eggert openly described the emotional turmoil following her diagnosis, especially the difficult “gray area” after completing chemotherapy where feelings of uncertainty and frustration were pervasive. “When I’m doing treatment, I felt like I was doing something productive. Now it’s just waiting, and waiting is hard because you don’t know what’s happening,” she shared. This vulnerability has fostered a strong connection with supporters who admire her transparency.
Nicole Eggert Underwent Mastectomy and Breast Reconstruction Surgery on August 21, 2025
On August 29, 2025, Nicole made a public post revealing she had a mastectomy with immediate breast reconstruction surgery the day before. In an Instagram post, she shared a mirror selfie dressed in a compression bra, captioning, “Had a mastectomy with reconstruction on Thursday. How was ur weekend?” This candid update demonstrated her fierce spirit and willingness to share every step of her cancer journey. The post quickly drew an outpouring of support from fans and former Baywatch co-stars like Carmen Electra and Erika Eleniak, who praised her bravery and strength.
Eggert’s surgery followed extensive treatment, including chemotherapy completed in July 2024 and radiation therapy. She now faces recovery from the physical and emotional toll of these procedures, while preparing for subsequent treatments such as hormone therapy or potentially a hysterectomy to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.
In the September 1 episode of her podcast Perfectly Twisted, Nicole discussed her post-surgery recovery openly and with some humor. She detailed how the mastectomy was more complex than she anticipated, especially due to nerve cutting which has left her adjusting to new sensations. She emphasized that recovery is not simply about healing stitches but dealing with profound bodily changes and pain management challenges. Lymph node removal, which she underwent, proved to be even more painful and complicated, something her medical team initially did not highlight.
Nicole’s straightforward advice to others recovering from mastectomy is to “watch garbage” — essentially distracting oneself with light entertainment — and consistently take prescribed painkillers to manage discomfort. She underscored the importance of patience and self-compassion in her healing process and encouraged others facing similar challenges to maintain hope and resilience.
Nicole Eggert’s Emotional Journey and Mental Health Challenges During Treatment
Beyond physical recovery, Nicole has been candid about the mental health hurdles of cancer treatment. She described “scanxiety,” the overwhelming fear before routine scans to monitor cancer progression. She shared a vulnerable moment of waiting for scan results, feeling physically ill and emotionally overwhelmed, but joyful at receiving clear results temporarily. This rollercoaster of emotions is an ongoing aspect of her survivor journey, highlighting the lasting impact of such a diagnosis beyond the operating room.
Her emotional transparency serves as a beacon for many facing cancer, combating stigma and isolation by openly sharing fears, frustrations, and moments of gratitude. Quotes she clings to include wise reflections on mindset, such as a Martha Washington quote she posted: “The greater part of our happiness or misery depends on our dispositions and not on our circumstances”.
What’s Next for Nicole Eggert: Hormone Therapy or Hysterectomy?
Following her mastectomy and breast reconstruction, Nicole’s treatment plan includes either a hysterectomy or starting hormone therapy, which will involve monthly estrogen-blocker injections for a decade plus oral medications for five years. The goal is to reduce estrogen levels, as her particular cancer was estrogen receptor-positive, meaning estrogen promoted its growth.
Nicole has expressed how multifaceted and ongoing cancer treatment is, with numerous physical and emotional facets demanding adjustment. She encourages others to educate themselves on the complexities beyond the visible scars, including the nerve damage and side effects that are rarely discussed but profoundly felt.
Nicole Eggert’s Public Sharing Helps Raise Awareness and Support
Eggert’s openness across social media and her podcast illustrates a modern approach to battling cancer by using personal platforms to educate the public, promote early detection, and advocate self-care during recovery. Her consistent updates provide comfort to others fighting breast cancer and shine a light on the realities of post-surgical life. Friends, family, and fans rally around her story with messages of encouragement, reflecting the power of community during such trials.
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