The Psychological Impact of Breast-Conserving Surgery Versus Mastectomy in Egyptian Female Patients

Abstract

The previous research on breast cancer's psychological impact was based on its effects on shape, with breast removal, and the subsequent effect on sexual attractiveness. Several changes that affect life behavior after breast cancer surgery including insomnia, difficulty returning to usual activities and work, nightmares and loss of appetite. These manifestations may be due to depression but they are only considered abnormal if they persist after the period of physical recovery from surgery. We conducted a study to assess the effects of the surgical decision and psychological impact of this decision on Egyptian females with breast cancer. Most patients were subjected to a questionnaire including all environmental and clinical factors affecting the surgical decision either mastectomy or breast-conserving surgery. As a conclusion we can say that breast conservative surgery is better accepted psychologically by patients than modified radical mastectomy as it did not affect sexual life, cosmetic appearance, mood, self-satisfaction, and quality of life.