Factors that influence plastic surgeons' advice about reconstruction to women with breast cancer.

The purpose of this pilot study was to describe the factors that influence the advice of plastic surgeons who offer reconstructive surgery to women with breast cancer. Answers to the following question were sought: What anatomical, technical, and personal factors are considered by plastic surgeons in their recommendations for reconstruction to women with breast cancer? Five themes emerged that explained approaches used with these patients: (1) technical issues and challenges, (2) patient-centered challenges, (3) aids to patient decision-making, (4) illusion of no loss, and (5) age.