Patient Perceptions and Determinants of Choice for Breast Reconstruction after Mastectomy among Saudi Patients

Background: Undergoing mastectomy is often associated with a negative impact on the mental well-being of patients. Patients who undergo postmastectomy breast reconstruction (BR) have a better self-image and higher self-esteem. Many patients with breast cancer (BC) are unaware of the availability of BR options. This study aimed to assess BC patient perceptions and identify the determinants of patient choices to undergo BR after mastectomy. Methods: This study was conducted between May 10, 2019 and February 29, 2020 via an interview-based questionnaire, among BC patients at King Abdul Aziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Ethical approval was obtained from the research ethics committee before the data collection. Results: Altogether, 400 patients (an overall 82% response rate) were included, of whom 155 (38.75%) were group 1 (willing to undergo BR). The mean age for group 1 was 46.04 +/- 8.79, which was younger than for group 2 (unwilling to undergo BR) (P < 0.001). Furthermore, 117 (75.5%) of group 1 had no history of any chronic illness compared with 145 (59.2%) of group 2 (P < 0.001). Group 1 had more knowledge about BR (69.7%, P < 0.001), and the main reason to undergo BR was to regain femininity (26.8%). The remaining patients (31.3%) were unwilling to undergo BR in order to avoid additional surgery. Conclusions: The lack of knowledge and misconception about BR is one factor preventing BC patients from undergoing BR. Spreading awareness and providing accurate information regarding the procedure will allow women with BC to overcome postmastectomy fear.