Journal: Scientific reports
This retrospective study evaluated long-term quality of life (QoL) and psychosocial adaptability in breast cancer patients undergoing either modified radical mastectomy or breast reconstruction.
Using propensity score matching, 260 patients (130 per group) completed validated assessments—FACT-B for QoL and the Psychosocial Adaptation Questionnaire (PAQ).
Results demonstrated that patients who had breast reconstruction reported significantly higher QoL scores and better psychosocial adaptability compared to those who underwent mastectomy alone:
- Mean FACT-B: 107.58 vs. 100.18 (P < .01)
- Median PAQ: 176 vs. 164 (P < .01)
Benefits of reconstruction were consistent across varying follow-up durations.
The study concludes that breast reconstruction:
- Improves self-acceptance
- Reduces psychological burden
- Enhances physical well-being
This underscores the importance of informing patients about these benefits and tailoring surgical decisions to individual psychosocial and physical needs for optimized long-term outcomes.