Published Sep 8, 2026

Singer-Songwriter Jessie J, 38, Preps for Second Breast Cancer Reconstruction Surgery With ‘Digital Cleanse’: ‘Recharge, Heal, Rest, Process’

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Preparing for Breast Reconstruction

Jessie J is taking a social media break ahead of her second breast cancer reconstruction surgery, focusing on healing, self-care, motherhood and processing major life changes of the past two years.
She was previously diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer. This type of breast cancer is characterized by a small tumor confined to the breast, with no signs of spread to the lymph nodes, making it highly treatable. Jessie J underwent a mastectomy (removal of the breast) followed by breast reconstruction for treatment. She has not shared further details about her reconstruction surgeries.
Doctors explain to SurvivorNet that breast reconstruction can involve expanders, implants, or flap procedures using a patient’s own tissue, with each option carrying different benefits, risks, and recovery timelines.
Dr. Andrea Pusic, Chief of Plastic Surgery at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, explains that expanders are “like a breast implant that goes in deflated with a little valve, which we can then gradually fill over time.”
Experts emphasize that reconstruction decisions are highly personal and should be made through shared decision‑making between patient and physician, considering goals, cancer features, and long‑term outcomes.

Ahead of singer-songwriter Jessie J’s second breast cancer reconstruction surgery, the “Bang, Bang” singer and survivor of early-stage breastcancer is taking time to give her “mind, body and heart a well needed hug.”

The mom of one and powerhouse vocalist, whose real name is Jessica Ellen Cornish, recently explained to fans on social media why she’s been quieter than usual on Instagram. The “Price Tag” singer revealed that she’s stepping away from the platform for a “digital cleanse” as she focuses on healing and taking care of herself.

Jessie J, 38—who previously underwent treatment for early-stage breast cancer, which included a mastectomy [surgical removal of one breast] and breast reconstruction—shared the news alongside footage of herself singing on stage with sunflowers in hand.

She explained in her caption, “The past 2 years has taken a toll on parts of me that I haven’t had time to give space and grace to. Now’s the time. Work has slowed down. So healing speeds up please.

“So I’m tapping out of this [world] for a while and into my real one. To give my mind, body and heart a well needed hug. To finally have my second cancer reconstruction surgery, to recharge, heal, to rest, to process, to love on myself and my boy, to water the next chapter of my life and most importantly be present and really live.”

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A post shared by Jessie J (@jessiej)

Jessie J began her post by informing her fans she’s doing “ok,” saying, “I am not at my best but very far from my worst.”

“It’s no secret that the last 2 years have been magical, successful, life changing and extremely busy. I have loved the last 2 years mostly, hated it in moments and learnt the most I have ever learnt about myself and what I want from my life and mostly what I want it to FEEL like,” she explained.

She then addressed the whirlwind of changes that have happened over the past two years, from releasing her first album in eight years and relocating from the U.S. to the U.K., to facing and overcoming breast cancer. Also recounting how she navigate a global tour, a breakup, motherhood and the day-to-day demands of handling her own social media, styling, hair and makeup.

Jessie J, who shares her son Sky with her ex partner, retired basketball player Chanan Safir Colman, continued, “I never feel I can really give that side the energy and time it deserves when it’s needed while staying on socials and my phone so much. A digital cleanse it is.

“I’m posting this for the people who would give AF that I haven’t posted or been active for a while. The people who have followed, supported, loved and cared on me and for me during this journey. Thank you for holding me up. So go easy in the comments serious Sallys.”

She explained that while she plans to take a break from social media, fans may still see occasional posts related to her work, some of which could be shared by members of her team. However, she said she’ll return to social media when the time feels right for her.

The pop star also reflected on the video she shared, saying it showcases her deep love of singing.

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A post shared by Jessie J (@jessiej)

Jessie J hasn’t specified the type of breast reconstruction surgery she’ll soon undergo.

Breast reconstruction can be done with implants or with a patient’s own tissue (a flap procedure). Flap surgeries often create a more natural look and feel, but aren’t suitable for everyone. Implant reconstruction is more straightforward with a quicker recovery, though implants don’t change with the body over time and may eventually need replacement.

Tissue expanders are temporary devices placed after a mastectomy to stretch the skin in preparation for permanent implants. They’re gradually filled with saline through a small external port every couple of weeks. This process can be uncomfortable for some women.

Dr. Andrea Pusic, Chief of Plastic Surgery at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, explains that expanders are placed either during the mastectomy or later during delayed reconstruction.

WATCH: Breaking Down Breast Reconstruction Options

Patients choosing implants must also decide between saline and silicone. Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater and make leaks easy to detect. Silicone implants tend to look and feel more natural but require periodic MRI monitoring.

Timing also matters when it comes to breast reconstruction. Immediate reconstruction — done during the mastectomy — can offer better cosmetic results but involves a longer initial surgery and recovery.

“Delayed reconstruction has fewer complications than immediate reconstruction,” Dr. Terry Myckatyn, a plastic surgeon specializing in breast reconstruction, tells SurvivorNet.

Another emerging focus in reconstruction is restoring breast sensation. Surgeons are increasingly working to preserve sensory nerves during mastectomy and reconnect them during reconstruction — a technique called breast reinnervation.

Early results are promising and may help women regain meaningful sensation.

WATCH: Restoring Sensation After a Mastectomy

When discussing surgical options, oncologist Dr. Ann Partridge notes that decisions depend on tumor size, features, and personal history. Some women may be candidates for breast‑conserving surgery (lumpectomy), while others require mastectomy. After surgery, additional treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, or hormone therapy may be recommended.

Ultimately, reconstruction is a deeply personal decision.

“It’s a shared decision‑making process between the patient and the physician,” says plastic surgeon Dr. Myckatyn. “The patient needs to advocate for herself and make her goals clear.”

WATCH: How some women may keep their breast size and shape in cancer surgery.

Jessie J’s Ongoing Breast Cancer Journey

When Jessie J opened up about her breast cancer diagnosis, she chose to speak directly to her fans, sharing her experience with striking honesty and vulnerability.

“Before ‘No Secrets’ came out, I was diagnosed with early breast cancer … Cancer sucks in any form, but I’m holding onto the word early. I have been in and out of tests throughout this whole period. I just wanted to be open and share it,” Jessie J said in an Instagram post.

In a follow-up post, she admitted that even as she continued performing and creating, she hadn’t fully processed the emotional weight of her diagnosis.

“One, because, selfishly, I do not talk about it enough. I’m not processing it because I’m working so hard. I also know how much sharing in the past has helped me with other people giving me their love and support, and also their own stories. I’m an open book.”

That vulnerability extended beyond her own experience. Jessie expressed deep empathy for others facing similar or more severe battles, acknowledging the shared pain that often goes unseen.

“It breaks my heart that other people are going through so much similar, and worse. That’s the bit that kills me.”

Coping With Your New Body After Cancer Treatment

After breast cancer surgery, patients often struggle with the changes to their bodies that others can see, whether those changes are temporary or permanent, like hair loss and weight gain. However, survivors also struggle with changes that may not be as obvious — such as infertility — and these can create body image issues and make survivors feel vulnerable.

One way to prepare yourself for possible body changes during cancer treatment is to understand that changes are possible but also, frequently, temporary. This can also help build up your self-confidence. Your support group, filled with loved ones, can help you during this stage of your journey as well.

Psychologist Dr. Marianna Strongin shares with SurvivorNet some additional tips cancer warriors can explore to help manage the emotional toll body changes can have during treatment.

Dr. Strongin encourages survivors to take ownership of the part (or parts) of their body impacted mainly by cancer treatment. She says that although they may represent “fear and pain,” they also represent “strength and courage.”

“Research has found that when looking in the mirror, we are more likely to focus on the parts of our body we are dissatisfied with, which causes us to have a negative self-view and lower self-esteem. Therefore, I would like you first to spend time gazing at the parts of your body you love, give them time, honor them, and then thank them,” Dr. Strongin said.

Dr. Strongin then suggests focusing on the part or parts of your body affected by the cancer or its treatment. She recommends creating a regular practice of accepting your body image because it helps you accept your cancer journey emotionally and physically.

“As you allow yourself to spend more time looking at all of you, you will begin having a new relationship with your body. It may not happen immediately, but with time, you can begin honoring and thanking your new body,” Dr. Strongin added.

Helping You With Questions For Your Doctor

To further help you on your cancer journey, explore SurvivorNet’s proprietary AI tool, “My Health Questions.” Not only can this powerful resource help you come up with helpful questions to ask your care team for an upcoming appointment, but it also offers so much more.

WATCH: How One Cancer Survivor and Her Sister Used “My Health Questions” to Navigate Care

This powerful resource, embedded across the SurvivorNet website, was built to bridge that gap by offering on-demand explanations of treatment options, clinical trials, side effects, insurance concerns, and more.

Users can ask questions conversationally, either by typing or using their voice, and receive answers tailored to their individual profiles. If patients don’t know where to start, we provide prompt questions to get them started.