Body Image Disturbance and Self-Esteem among Women After Mastectomy

Abstract

Breast cancer and its treatment are associated with significant psychological and emotional consequences that extend beyond the physical burden of the disease. Mastectomy, although an important surgical option for the management of breast cancer, may result in major changes in body appearance, femininity perception, sexuality, and personal identity. These changes can lead to body image disturbance, reduced self-esteem, anxiety, depression, social withdrawal, impaired intimacy, and decreased quality of life. Body image disturbance after mastectomy is a multidimensional experience involving dissatisfaction with surgical scars, chest appearance, body symmetry, and feelings of incompleteness or loss of femininity. The psychological impact may be more pronounced among younger women and may be influenced by several factors, including marital status, social support, coping strategies, cultural beliefs, type of surgery, breast reconstruction, and healthcare communication. Since self-esteem is closely related to body perception and emotional adaptation, women with poor body image after mastectomy may experience reduced confidence, impaired self-worth, and difficulty in psychosocial adjustment. Therefore, assessing body image disturbance and self-esteem among women with mastectomy is essential for improving psycho-oncology care, supportive interventions, rehabilitation, and overall survivorship outcomes.