Patient Perspectives of "Failure" in Breast Reconstruction: A Systematic Review of Qualitative Literature: Points de vue des patients sur les «échecs» de la reconstruction mammaire: Revue systématique des publications sur l'aspect qualitatif.

The concept of in breast reconstruction can occur when negative outcomes dominate the patient experience. The primary objective of this review was to identify experiences of in breast reconstruction from the patient's perspective in the qualitative literature. MEDLINE, Embase, Psychinfo, Emcare, and CINAHL were searched on July 31, 2023 using terms related to breast reconstruction and qualitative research. Thematic analysis was performed on direct quotations from included studies. was used to assess confidence of the final findings. Forty-two studies were identified. The following themes were identified in breast reconstruction : (1) occurs when expectations of restoring the original breast are not met with reconstruction, (2) occurs when unexpected outcomes were associated with the reconstruction, and (3) healthcare providers negatively impact the experience of breast reconstruction through lack of transparency when educating patients on expected results and poor relational support in the post-operative period. The evidence supporting themes 1-3 scored high confidence with CERQual. Breast reconstruction from the patient perspective arises from the limitations and adverse outcomes of the surgery. They may also arise even when the procedure was deemed "successful" from the surgeon's perspective. Dissatisfaction with result is increased by procedural complications. Healthcare providers can aggravate the perception of through inadequate patient education. Incorporating these perceptions of into discussions with patients can aid in their decision making.