Post-Mastectomy Counseling

Abstract

Prosthetic developments and clothing assist post-mastectomy women toward a goal of concealment. Adjustment difficulties related to mastectomy are also concealed by various psychologically defensive means. Counselors, post-mastectomy women and significant others assist in the concealment, not from a lack of concern, but because of a lack of understanding of the associated dynamics. Mastectomy may provide the impetus for many pre-mastectomy personal problems to surface. Counselors by understanding the dynamics and potential devastation to the several life areas involved, can assist with appropriate adjustment without contributing to concealment.