External Breast Prosthesis for Post Mastectomy Women

Abstract

Women who have had a mastectomy for breast cancer have to cope with two major problems: first, that they have cancer, and second, that they have lost their physical appearance. The provision of an appropriate prosthesis breast forms, have an opportunity to choose between then, and to be satisfied with their choice. After mastectomy, the provision of an appropriate breast prosthesis help to improve body image and quality of life and reduce associated emotional distress.

Exploring post mastectomy patients’ experience on handmade knitted breast prosthesis, a project lead by the breast nurse specialist

“…The result is consistent with previous studies that showed high satisfaction among most external breast prosthesis wearers. [29] It is well documented that loss of positive self-image is among the most common emotional effects women confront after a mastectomy. [8] However, the emotional impact of mastectomy was not examined in this study.…”

“…[28] Many studies suggested that women wear EBP after mastectomy to reduce the sense of disturbed body image. [29,30] Therefore, it helps restore self-esteem in post-mastectomy patients by creating a natural breast appearance, which may help boost self-confidence and a sense of femininity in women. Also, it could help improve symmetry and weight balance, as mastectomy negatively impacts women's posture and balance.…”

“…Finally, it enhances post-mastectomy women's physical and psychological well-being and overall quality of life. [29,31] In Oman, the availability of all types of EBP in local markets is challenging. Moreover, factors including costly breast silicones, patients' lack of information on available different types and use of EBP after mastectomy and no breast prosthesis fitting services for post-mastectomy patients increase the issue.…”

“…Moreover, factors including costly breast silicones, patients' lack of information on available different types and use of EBP after mastectomy and no breast prosthesis fitting services for post-mastectomy patients increase the issue. [29] Considering these factors, a breast cancer nurse specialist (BCN) in a tertiary hospital created the project of handmade knitted EBP made from cotton and stuffed with poly-fibre material for post-mastectomy patients. The project is initiated to enhance the rehabilitation process after mastectomy, improve the patient's self-image and social life, and cover the lack of prostheses in local markets.…”

Dynamic Changes in Quality of Life, Psychological Status, and Body Image in Women With Different Types of Breast Cancer Surgery: 8-year Follow Up

“…However, over time, they may have experienced many changes in their bodies and ended up unhappy with their BI. Furthermore, the mastectomy and MRM patients have a xed scar in their breast area post-surgery, and may have found that they can had alternatives such as external (prosthesis) [2,26,53] to keep their BI stable and didn't have any worries about further recurrent or post-surgical complications. However, one study examined changes in BI and QoL in women who underwent BCS compared with mastectomies and found similar uctuation in BI after BCS, but that study did not include BR patients [65].…”