Abstract
Objective In the United Kingdom, the number of women undergoing post-mastectomy breast reconstruction is increasing. Consequently, exploring patient-reported outcomes in breast surgery has become increasingly important. This study investigated satisfaction and quality of life following post-mastectomy breast reconstruction. Design Qualitative research design. Methods In-depth, semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with 25 women (age, M = 53.08, SD = 8.41) following breast reconstruction in the United Kingdom. Data were analysed using template analysis which produced three-first-level, 13 second-level, and 19 third-level themes. Results Following reconstruction, women reported improved emotional functioning, although this was often accompanied by deterioration in physical, sexual, and/or social functioning. Women positively appraised their breast appearance, although some reported a decline in satisfaction over time, attributing this decline to their chosen reconstructive technique. Many women accepted the inevitability of scarring and most perceived their scars as a representation of their journey, signifying survival. Generally, women were satisfied with the outcome of their reconstruction, although on reflection some would not have opted for reconstruction. Following breast reconstruction, women were increasingly likely to experience the fear of recurrence, attributed to no longer being able to have a mammogram on the affected breast(s). Conclusions This study provides new insights into post-mastectomy breast reconstruction and is a novel application of template analysis. The analysis demonstrates only slight variation in some categories of experience among women, despite a heterogeneous sample. The findings allow researchers and clinicians to focus on specific dimensions of satisfaction and quality of life to support the needs of women following reconstruction.
DOI
10.1111/bjhp.12299
Publication Date
2018-05-01
Publication Title
British Journal of Health Psychology
Volume
23
Issue
2
Publisher
Wiley
ISSN
2044-8287
Embargo Period
2024-11-19
First Page
455
Last Page
475
Recommended Citation
Matthews, H., Turner, A., Williamson, I., & Clyne, W. (2018) '‘It's a silver lining’: A template analysis of satisfaction and quality of life following post‐mastectomy breast reconstruction', British Journal of Health Psychology, 23(2), pp. 455-475. Wiley: Available at: https://doi.org/10.1111/bjhp.12299
