Issues related to grooming among postmastectomy patients: An Indian perspective

The surgical management of breast cancer results in the alteration of breast volume and clothing style, including designs of dresses, brassiere wearing, and use of breast prosthesis among the patients. It is important to understand the changing needs of breast cancer survivors related to their grooming practices. The current study provides data regarding the practices related to grooming associated with the changes in breast volume of breast cancer survivors.

The study was conducted at a tertiary care center in northern India. A total of 191 breast cancer survivors attending the outpatient department for follow-up were enrolled consecutively. Apart from collecting data regarding the sociodemographic profile and clinical profile, a questionnaire was used to assess the grooming practices of the participants. They were ensured of the confidentiality of their information.

The unaffected breast had a significantly higher mean volume than the affected breast. After surgery, 60% were wearing brassieres. Pain at the surgical site was the most frequent justification for not wearing the brassiere. Only 10% of the participants were using breast prostheses. Some of these women were customizing prostheses using silicon, cotton, or towels. Around 40% of the participants said that they felt uncomfortable when using any of the prostheses. Most of them favored wearing cotton fabric after surgery.

Awareness regarding postmastectomy clothing may enhance the self-image of the survivors. It is recommended to have breast cancer clinics to provide counseling services for the survivors of breast cancer.