Pectus excavatum and pectus carinatum patients suffer from lower quality of life and impaired body image: a control group comparison of psychological characteristics prior to surgical correction

Abstract

Since self-perception is a major contributor to therapeutic decision making, a systematic evaluation of body image should be included in the assessment of patients with chest deformities. Body image concerns may be even more relevant to the decision-making process than physical restrictions. Exaggerated dysmorphic concerns should be prospectively investigated in their ability to influence the extent of satisfaction with the surgical outcome.