The meaning of ‘reconstruction’ within the lived experience of mastectomy for breast cancer

Abstract

This paper represents a heuristic study of the meaning and essence of ‘reconstruction’ within the lived experience of mastectomy for breast cancer. Open‐ended interviews were conducted with a sample of eight women aged 40 to 58 years, who underwent mastectomy for breast cancer. Four participants had immediate breast reconstruction; two participants had delayed breast reconstruction, and two participants decided not to have the procedure. The study demonstrates that themes of loss/change/reconstruction are inextricably linked to the experience of mastectomy. Loss of a breast was likened to bereavement and in some women caused a loss of part of their identity. The closeness of death altered the awareness the women had of their time left on earth. This awareness brought about change/reconstruction in the majority of the women, in their lives and in their relationships with others. Prior to breast reconstruction there is a place for exploring with women the meaning of ‘normal’ and ‘whole’. Implications for counselling are discussed.