A qualitative study of patients' views on the effects of breast-reduction surgery: a 2-year follow-up survey.
The objectives of this study were to discover the views of patients about the effects of breast-reduction surgery carried out 2 years previously, to detect any change from perceptions at 3-6 months after surgery, and to determine whether the benefits of this operation are maintained long term. Qualitative research methods were employed, comprising: (a) an open-format survey of opinions; (b) semi-structured telephone interviews with a smaller number of patients; and (c) assessment of self-concept using a well-known scalar measure (the Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale). The subjects were 93 patients treated at the regional Plastic Surgery Service in Salisbury, who had previously participated in a quantitative study at 3-6 months after surgery. Sixty patients responded to the 2-year follow-up. Benefits of breast reduction most valued by patients did not change significantly with time and were: relief of pain and discomfort, which led to increased physical activity and better general health; greatly increased choice and fit of attractive clothes and underwear; improved personal and social life, leading to enhanced relationships with partner or friends; and greatly improved self-confidence in all areas of life. The interaction of all these factors led to improved self-image and improved quality of life. The main disadvantage of the operation for a small number of patients was the persistence of painful, disfiguring scarring which in two cases had a detrimental effect on social and personal relationships and led to a deterioration in quality of life. Improvement in self-esteem after surgery was maintained in 55 out of the 60 2-year responders. The results indicate that breast reduction confers significant health gains which are maintained in the long term.
Shakespeare
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V
Laing Laboratory for Plastic Surgery and Burn Research, Salisbury District Hospital, UK.
Postle
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K
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001835:Body Weight; D002921:Cicatrix / Q000209:etiology; D015444:Exercise; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D016462:Mammaplasty / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D008875:Middle Aged; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011184:Postoperative Period; D011788:Quality of Life; D012649:Self Concept