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Psychological aspects of breast reconstruction: a review of the literature

Aim. This paper critically examines the research literature relating to the psychological aspects of breast reconstruction. Particular attention is given to the role of specialist breast care nurses in supporting women faced with the decision of whether or not to opt for reconstructive surgery.

Background. Breast reconstruction is intended to offer psychological benefits (e.g. improvements to quality of life, body image, anxiety and depression) to women treated by mastectomy following diagnosis of breast cancer.

Methods. A literature search was carried out on the PSYCHINFO, MEDLINE and CINAHL databases using the terms ‘breast reconstruction’, ‘mastectomy’, ‘reconstructive surgery’, ‘breast surgery’, ‘breast implants’, ‘transverse rectus adominis myocutaneous (TRAM) flap’ and ‘Lat‐dorsi’. Further relevant articles were identified from the …