Women's Recovery Experiences After Breast Cancer Reconstruction Surgery

Abstract

Many women with early-stage breast cancer choose breast reconstruction following mastectomy with the goal to improve physical and psychological quality of life. Breast reconstruction procedures vary in surgical complexity, types of postsurgical complications, and time to recovery, all of which can affect a women's well-being. Although there is a growing body of literature on the satisfaction with aesthetic outcomes following breast reconstruction, there is little research addressing the recovery process. This qualitative study explores woman's physical and emotional recovery experiences. Findings may be useful for improving educational and counseling services for women who undergo breast cancer reconstructive surgeries.

KEYWORDS:

• breast cancer
• mastectomy
• reconstructive surgery
• recovery
• quality of life

Acknowledgments

The original study was funded by grants from the Plastic Surgery Educational Foundation (A.P., PI).