MOTIVATIONS OF WOMEN SEEKING BREAST RECON STRUCTION AFTER MASTECTOMY,A COMPARATIVE-STUDY

The aim of this study is to define the psychosocial profile and the mo tivations of women who seek post-mastectomy reconstruction. A question naire was administered to 45 women who had breast reconstruction sever al months after mastectomy and 51 who did not. Statistical analysis of data shows significant differences between the two groups regarding a ge, education, leisure activities, sexual intercourse and fear of recu rrence. A qualitative analysis shows how women feel about reconstructi on. The results suggest that information concerning reconstruction mus t be adapted to the psychosocial profile of women. Moreover, reconstru ction must be considered by the surgeon as an essential stage of breas t cancer treatment. III order to help women in their choice, they must give them appropriate information on the technique of breast reconstr uction, on the risk of relapse and on the possibility of reimbursement of medical expenses.