[Experiences of breast reconstruction following mastectomy in cases of cancer and evaluation of psychological aspects of the patients].

The breasts are one of the symbols of femininity. Even if it is for the treatment of cancer, the loss or deformity of the breast brings a considerable psychological burden in addition to the physical pain. Authors have performed breast reconstruction on 150 cases during the past fifteen years and have obtained largely favorable results, which were already reported in several papers. Authors administered questionnaires to these patients in order to ascertain their candid opinions which are often not expressed in a hospital. The results of the survey are presented in this report. The survey was conducted anonymously and the questions were all multiple-choices. Approximately 82% of the patient responded. About the pain, inconvenience and motives for undergoing reconstruction, there was a wide variety of answers and many of those surprised authors. For instance; hesitant to go to a hot spring, or on a trip with friends (76%), hesitant to go to a clinic or a hospital for physical check-ups and common illness (74%), troublesome to wear special underwear (69%), inconvenient because ordinary clothes cannot be worn (56%), distressed when viewing own body (52%), unable to dress in thin clothes in hot summer season (50%), imbalance of the breasts (49%), inconvenient to participate in sports (47%). The most patients experienced inconveniences in daily life and had mental and emotional problems. Overall, an impression of the results of breast reconstruction was 83% satisfactory or near satisfaction. About the condition after reconstruction: Patients also expressed a wide variety of opinions about the improvements. For instance, they are relieved from the troubles of wearing special clothing and enjoy selecting and shopping for clothes. They are able to walk on the street with dignity. They enjoy hot spring baths, sports, and leisure activities. They can go for physical check-ups without hesitation. They have a sense of liberation, and become free from constant anxiety. They developed again a forward-looking and positive attitude. Some patients say that they forgot that they had breast reconstruction and that they had breast cancer. As for marriage after reconstruction, which seems to be author's ultimate goal, 12 of the 52 single women have married, and another 22 are currently planning to marry. To the question, "If you are consulted by someone who is in a similar situation". 99% said they would recommend the reconstruction.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)