Type of mastectomy and quality of life for long term breast carcinoma survivors

Abstract

Assessed globally, partial and total mastectomy appear to be equivalent treatments in terms of patients' long term quality of life. However, both short term and long term distress levels after partial and total mastectomy may depend on patients' age at diagnosis. The findings of this study suggest that the increased use of partial mastectomy may lessen the negative effects of breast carcinoma on younger survivors' quality of life. Nevertheless, total mastectomy may be an appropriate initial treatment for some women who truly choose it.