"Why I Wore Lipstick to My Mastectomy" was released in 2006 as a television film based on the memoir by Geralyn Lucas. Upon its release, the film received a moderate reception, praised for its honest and heartfelt portrayal of a woman confronting breast cancer, though some critics found it somewhat formulaic. Over time, the movie has gained appreciation among audiences for its empowering message and emotional depth. While it may not have reached mainstream blockbuster status, it is now often regarded as an underrated gem within medical drama genres and resonates strongly with viewers facing similar challenges.