Cosmetic surgery of the breast can have a profound impact on a person’s quality of life.
Researchers have identified 6 aspects of breast surgery that influence patient quality of life and satisfaction. You can find the article “Satisfaction and quality of life in women who undergo breast surgery: A qualitative study” on Biomed Central or the August issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
1. Greater Satisfaction With Breasts
This is clearly the main goal of any elective breast surgery. Participants of the study commented about improvements in breast shape and the clothing options that were now available to them as a result. One patient with breast implants comments, “I have really nice voluptuous, rounded, normal-sized perky breasts and I am sooo happy with them.”
2. A Positive Surgical Experience
Those who experienced a positive surgeon-patient relationship – with good communication and honest information exchanged – expressed more satisfaction with breast surgery. Patients who had an adverse relationship with the surgeon or staff reported less satisfaction.
3. Improved Psychological and Social Well-Being
Patients in the study shared the positive changes in self perception and experiences in social settings. Increased confidence and feeling as if you fit the perceived “norm” of the female body are said to be a common benefits of breast surgery.
4. Improved Physical Well-Being
Breast reduction patients can get relief from back and neck pain, which often allows increased activity and better health.
5. Improved Sexual Well Being
Enhancements in breast shape and size can bring improvements in sexual pleasure, largely because it alleviates “negative feelings about the breasts” that often cause women to feel less attractive.
6. Overall Satisfaction
Researchers also included the simple category of general satisfaction. Would you undergo the surgery again? One breast augmentation patient responds, “there is not one day that goes by that I am not so pleased that I did it.”
Dr. Jonov is a cosmetic surgeon who specializes in plastic surgeries of the face, breast, and body at Seattle Plastic Surgery.
