Reconstruction and augmentation patients' reaction to the media coverage of silicone gel-filled implants: anxiety...

Media coverage tends to focus on sensational aspects. Especially prominent are controversial items related to public health and well-being. This research examined the response by breast-reconstruction and breast-augmentation patients to extensive media coverage regarding silicone gel-filled implants. Results of our survey suggested that media coverage influenced these women. Common concerns expressed by respondents included autoimmune disease, capsular contracture, leakage, increased risk of cancer, and anxiety. All respondents used consultation with their physicians as a primary means of coping with anxiety. Anxiety over media coverage led to some hesitancy concerning use of implants by surveyed patients. Patients who experienced difficulty with their reconstruction noted more anxiety associated with media coverage.