A Questionnaire Survey of Cosmetic Results and Patient Satisfaction with Breast Conserving Surgery

Abstract

(Background) Since the cosmetic evaluation method in breast-conserving surgery objectively evaluates the laterality of the breast, the patient's subjective evaluation has not been heard, which may reduce patient satisfaction.

(Purpose) To investigate what patients value in breast-conserving surgery.

(Subjects and methods) Among the post-breast-conserving surgery patients attending our hospital, we have conducted a questionnaire survey asking ; how much the patient cares about each item in the evaluation method of the Sawai group, whether the patient wears a bra before and after surgery, whether the patient has breast symptoms after surgery, and how much the patient cares about the position of the scar, the shape of the breast, and patient satisfaction.

(Results) Each item included in the Sawai method was not given much importance, and the number of bra wearers decreased after surgery. Fifty-two-point-nine percent of the patients bought new underwears, and 41.2% had breast symptoms, after surgery, 54.9% answered that they were not particular about the scar or the shape of the breast as long as there was no pain or discomfort, and 62.7 % answered that they were satisfied or somewhat satisfied with their postoperative breasts.

(Conclusion) To increase patient satisfaction, it is important to question the patient about what she thinks important in addition to appearance, and to discuss with the patient about the location of the surgical scar and method of mammoplasty before surgery.