Mental models of women with breast implants: Local complications

Twenty-five women with breast implants participated in semistructured inter views designed to reveal their "mental models" of the processes potentially causing local (ie, nonsystemic) problems. The authors analyzed their respo nses in terms of an "expert model," circumscribing scientifically relevant information. Most of the women interviewed had something to say about most elements in the expert model. Nonetheless, gaps in their mental models unde rmined decision making about their implants. One woman misunderstood the te rms used by the medical community to describe implant failure (eg, rupture, leak, and bleed). Another exaggerated the implants' vulnerability to direc t impacts, such as car accidents. Participants also overestimated their abi lity to detect localized problems and to select medical remedies. Although they were generally satisfied with their own implants, many participants we re dissatisfied with the decision-making processes that lead to their choic e. Their interviews are interpreted by, the form and content of communicati ons that women with implants need to help them manage their health decision s better.