Psychological considerations in breast reconstruction.

A study of the psychological aspects of mastectomy and reconstruction was carried out. A review of the literature revealed varied emotional responses to the mastectomy experience. An initial, limited study was designed to investigate the attitudes of two groups of women, one that chose reconstruction after mastectomy and another that did not. In general, the women who had reconstruction experienced the mastectomy as a more serious blow to their self-esteem than the women who chose not to be reconstructed. The reaction a woman has to mastectomy seems to be more dependent on her self-image before the crisis. Breast reconstruction offers a chance to restore a near normal physical appearance, but is usually successful in restoring a woman's self-image as well. The authors favor the provision of supportive services for mastectomy and breast reconstruction patients. To save a woman's life by surgery and then not provide her with the emotional support needed to accept an altered body seems to be contradictory. A true healer heals not only the body, but the mind and spirit as well.