2019 Volume 4 Issue 4 Pages 98-105
There is no standard method for evaluating a reconstructed breast. Subjective evaluation or patient satisfaction scores are often differ between the patients who undergo reconstruction, and the surgeon. It is essential for reconstructive surgeons to understand such disparities. We developed a novel photodocumentation system to record images of both breasts seen from above using a mirror. As an objective evaluation, we routinely photographed this view of the breasts when we record standardized body photographs. Photos with lingerie on the reconstructed breast were also taken and evaluated. At the same time, patients were asked to cosmetically evaluate their own breasts.
Higher satisfaction scores were observed for patients who viewed the breast image from above compared with the standard breast image from the front. Additionally, scores after receiving breast reconstruction were markedly higher when wearing lingerie compared with not wearing lingerie. Of note, the objective images remained the same, but the subjective evaluation scores by some patients changed with the mental perception of their appearance.
A patient's view of their breasts seen from above using a mirror may reflect how they see their own breasts every day. Recording images of patients with and without lingerie, and listening to their subjective opinions about their reconstructed breasts will help physicians understand the patient's state of mind, which is valuable for ideal breast reconstruction.
