Back to 2026 Abstracts
The Patient Perspective of a Patient-Centric Photobook in Post-Mastectomy Breast Reconstruction
Arianna Sidoti
*1, Jaime L. Gilliland
2, Jacob Levy
1, Brianna Peet
1, Babak J. Mehrara
1, Jonas Nelson
1, Carrie S. Stern
11Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery , Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY; 2PRO-CEL, Patient-Reported Outcomes, Community Engagement, and Language Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
Background: In this qualitative study, we assessed patient perspectives of a patient-centric photobook on post-mastectomy breast reconstructive (PMBR) options. We analyzed the perceived impact on decision-making and opinions of the reconstructive process.
Methods: PMBR patients aged ≥18 years and at least 3 months post mastectomy who recalled the photobook were recruited across three focus groups. Patient demographic and surgical information were collected. The focus group transcriptions were coded in NVivo for thematic analysis.
Results: We conducted three focus groups for a total of 21 patients; the median age was 52 years (IQR 20). Fourteen patients had completed definitive reconstruction, and seven had tissue expanders in place. The median time between mastectomy and focus group date was 5.3 months. We identified two main themes: (1) Access to tangible surgical outcomes fosters confidence in the reconstructive process and (2) Alignment of photobook delivery with patient priorities. Subthemes for theme 1 included the importance of comprehensive, realistic representation of surgical outcomes, and the dual role of the photobook in medical and psychological preparation for PMBR. Subthemes for theme 2 included differences in patient informational needs and preferences and pairing the photobook with open communication. Three areas for improvement were identified: inclusion of additional angles (e.g., lateral views); more comprehensive representation of outcomes, including abdominal contour and skin changes; and incorporation of a recovery timeline featuring immediate postoperative images.
Conclusion: A patient-centric photobook is a valuable adjunct to discussions with surgeons regarding reconstructive options following mastectomy, fostering confidence in both the surgeon and final reconstruction. Future iterations should incorporate a wider range of outcome representation and healing stages to better inform decision-making, and to align photobook delivery with patient priorities.
Back to 2026 Abstracts
