Subcutaneous mastectomy with implant reconstruction: cosmetic outcome and patient satisfaction.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the cosmetic outcome and satisfaction of patients who have undergone subcutaneous mastectomy (SCM) with silicon implant reconstruction and to investigate the factors influencing cosmesis.


METHODS
A total of 101 patients who had had SCM implant reconstruction for treatment of primary breast cancer were assessed for cosmesis by a panel using photographic assessment. Satisfaction and sexuality were studied by a self-evaluation questionnaire.


RESULTS
A good to excellent cosmetic result was achieved in 71 (70. 3%) patients (and in 85% of the group who had immediate insertion of the implant). Eighty-one patients (81%) were moderately or very satisfied (96% of the immediate reconstruction group were so). Factors found to influence cosmesis positively were submuscular insertion of the implant (P<0.001), the lateral incision approach (P<0.001) and immediate reconstruction (P<0.001).


CONCLUSIONS
The findings of this study support the use of SCM with implant reconstruction as the simplest option in those advised to undergo mastectomy and who wish for reconstruction.
Al-Ghazal
S K
SK
Breast Unit, Nottingham City Hospital, UK.
Blamey
R W
RW
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D019928:Breast Implantation; D004954:Esthetics; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D015414:Mastectomy, Subcutaneous / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D008875:Middle Aged; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D012828:Silicones
D012828:Silicones