Research Purpose:
Alloplastic breast reconstruction is the most common form of breast reconstruction in North America. Commonly, an implant or tissue expander is placed in a pocket below the pectoralis (chest) muscle. This is known as a subpectoral approach. Recently a technique where the implant or tissue expander is place above the pectoralis muscle has been introduced as a new surgical technique. This is known as a prepectoral approach.
The purpose of this study is to develop a greater understanding about the effectiveness of subpectoral and prepectoral breast reconstruction in terms of post-operative complications, health-related quality of life and patient satisfaction. A portion of this study will seek to determine participants’ attitudes toward surgical treatment options.
What is involved:
The study consists of a questionnaire, called the BREAST-Q. The questionnaire can be completed online through a web-based platform called REDCap, through a paper version that can be returned with a preaddressed and stamped envelope, or verbally through a phone call with a researcher. The questionnaire will take about 10-15 minutes to complete. You will not be required to answer any questions that you are uncomfortable answering.
If you choose to participate in this study, you will be asked to complete a questionnaire at four (4) time points: prior to and 3, 12 and 18 months after your mastectomy and immediate breast reconstruction.
Who can participate:
You may be able to participate in this study if you:
- Are a woman, aged 18 or over
- Undergoing total mastectomy (surgery to remove the breast), for breast cancer or risk reduction, with immediate breast reconstruction using a tissue expander or implant (alloplastic breast reconstruction)
- Are fluent in English
Interested in being involved:
If you are interested in participating, please fill out the form on the Get Involved Page, or if you have further questions, feel free to email our research team at research.plastics@ubc.ca