PSYCHOLOGICAL RESPONSE TO BREAST RECONSTRUCTION - EXPECTATIONS FOR AND IMPACT ON POSTMASTECTOMY FUNCTIONING

Breast reconstruction is being considered by increasing numbers of bre ast cancer patients. Recent controversy over the relative risk to bene fit of breast implants suggests a need for more information about who seeks reconstruction, why, and its impact on postmastectomy functionin g. Eighty-three women undergoing reconstructive surgery were assessed with respect to surgical and psychological status. Evaluations were ma de at the time of consultation for breast reconstruction and repeated 2 months or more postsurgery. Findings highlight the overwhelmingly po sitive effects of postmastectomy breast reconstruction and provide inf ormation useful to those counseling or following breast cancer patient s who pursue this option.