Awareness, Attitudes, and Barriers Toward Breast Symmetry Procedures Among Women After Breast Reconstruction: A...

Background: Achieving breast symmetry is an important aesthetic goal following reconstruction post-mastectomy; however, little is known about women's awareness, attitudes, and barriers regarding Contralateral Breast Symmetry Procedures (CBSP) in Jordan. Objectives: To assess awareness, perceptions, and barriers toward contralateral breast symmetry procedures among breast cancer survivors who underwent reconstruction at King Hussein Cancer Center. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from July to Oct 2025 at KHCC, among 314 women diagnosed with breast cancer who had post-breast reconstruction. Data were collected using a structured Arabic questionnaire, which was developed based on existing literature, validated by an expert panel, and piloted on 10 women for clarity and reliability. The final tool demonstrated acceptable internal-consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.712). The questionnaire captured sociodemographic and clinical data and detailed knowledge, attitudes, and barriers related to CBSP. Descriptive statistics summarized the data. Results: Participants' mean age was 45.8 years; the majority were married (83.8%) and held university degrees (65.6%). Most reconstructions used silicone implants (94.6%). Only 6.4% had undergone CBSP, primarily delayed breast augmentation or mastopexy, with 75% reporting satisfaction. Awareness of CBSP was limited (37.9%), and less than one-third had discussed CBSP options with their surgeon or knew about insurance coverage. While 82.5% valued symmetry for body image, 31.5% viewed it as unnecessary after cancer recovery. Main barriers included satisfaction with current appearance (48.1%), fear of additional surgery (32.2%), financial constraints (37.3%), and lack of physician counseling (27.1%). Trust in medical team recommendations was high (89.2%). Conclusions: Contralateral breast symmetry procedures are under-recognized and infrequently pursued, primarily due to limited awareness, financial concerns, and insufficient counseling. Focused education and enhanced surgeon-patient communication are essential to support women's aesthetic and psychological needs after reconstruction in Jordan.