A Pilot Study of Some Psychological Aspects of Subcutaneous Mastectomy

Abstract

The report describes how the patients reacted to the information given them before the operation, their reactions following the operation, and their sexual behaviour before and after the operation. Patients who have undergone subcutaneous mastectomy with simultaneous insertion of implants have to cope with two different psychological factors: loss of the breast and sudden acquisition of an unfamiliar substitute. This study indicates that these factors may interfere with each other in a detrimental way. It may be better for patients if they are given opportunities to psychologically prepare themselves well in advance of the operation. Such preparation should include provision of full information and the opportunity to become familiar with the implants, as well as emotional counselling.