Functioning of women after mastectomy with subsequent breast reconstruction depending on cancer-related variables

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy among women worldwide. Mastectomy, often accompanied by breast reconstruction, plays a key role in treatment and prevention among high-risk patients; however, psychological outcomes may vary depending on cancer-related factors.

The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between selected cancer-related factors and psychological functioning in women after mastectomy with breast reconstruction.

This survey-based study involved 164 women after mastectomy with subsequent breast reconstruction. Psychological functioning was assessed using standardized psychometric instruments: the Satisfaction with Life Scale, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, Generalized Self-Efficacy Scale, Courtauld Emotional Control Scale, and the Mini-Mental Adjustment to Cancer.

The study included 164 women who underwent mastectomy followed by breast reconstruction. The timing of the reconstruction decision wasn't significantly associated with self-efficacy, self-esteem, life satisfaction, or overall psychological adjustment to cancer; however, women opting for immediate reconstruction demonstrated lower levels of emotional control, particularly in the anger domain, with a trend toward lower anxiety control. Longer disease duration was associated with reduced life satisfaction but more adaptive coping patterns, including greater positive reappraisal and lower helplessness. Participation in prehabilitation was associated with higher self-esteem only.

The timing of the decision for breast reconstruction was not associated with self-efficacy, self-esteem, life satisfaction, or overall psychological adjustment. Immediate reconstruction after mastectomy was associated with less favorable emotional control indicators, although the practical significance of these effects appears limited. Longer illness duration was related to lower life satisfaction but more adaptive coping.