[Breast cancer patient satisfaction with immediate two-stage implant-based breast reconstruction]

For most breast cancer patients in the Czech Republic, breast reconstruction is available only in a delayed manner. In the Masaryk Memorial Cancer Institute (MMCI), suitable candidates are offered immediate breast reconstruction using tissue expander with later exchange to a permanent silicone implant. The aim of this study was to assess patient satisfaction with this type of reconstruction.

Sixty-two women who had undergone surgery at the MMCI from 2007 through 2013 were sent a simple questionnaire developed by our working team. Fifty-seven patients completed the questionnaire. The data were evaluated by description methods and statistical tests.

Patient response was 92%. The absolute majority of patients (56/57) would opt for this method again. The vast majority of patients (48/57) are generally satisfied with their reconstruction. Most women (8/14) younger than 50 years after the unilateral surgery would prefer synchronous contralateral prophylactic mastectomy and bilateral reconstruction if they could choose again. After bilateral surgery, reconstructed breasts are more often regarded as a part of the patients body. Dressed women rate their look substantially better than when they are undressed. As for self-esteem, these women are feeling excellent or good. Their psychosocial well-being in common situations is predominantly excellent. Their sexual well-being is significantly worse, and almost half of these women indicate occasional pain in their reconstructed breasts. The patients emphasize the need for appropriate information before the surgery.

Immediate two-stage implant-based breast reconstruction is a suitable option for some breast cancer patients. With regard to the less natural cosmetic result and feeling of the implant-reconstructed breast, appropriate selection of women for this type of surgery is necessary and potential candidates must be thoroughly informed in the preoperative setting.