Impact of External Breast Prosthesis on Post-Mastectomy Quality of Life: A Single-Institution Study from a Tertiary Care Centre in Southern India

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy among women in India with mastectomy often being the primary treatment While breast reconstruction is an option many Indian women opt for external breast prostheses EBP due to financial constraints lack of awareness and limited access to reconstruction services However studies indicate that a significant proportion of post mastectomy patients rely on makeshift alternatives impacting their quality of life QoL

This prospective observational study aims to evaluate the impact of EBP on post mastectomy QoL using the BREAST Q questionnaire at AIIMS Mangalagiri The study will assess changes in QoL scores before and after EBP use along with factors influencing adherence and barriers to access The study duration is for one year The calculated sample size is 53 Post mastectomy women aged 18 years and above and at least three months post operation with no prior reconstruction will be included Patients will complete BREAST Q before EBP use then at three months and six months after application Eligible patients will be counselled on EBP benefits fitted with prostheses and followed up through outpatient visits or telephonic assessments BREAST Q scores will be analysed to determine improvements in psychosocial and physical well being Statistical analysis will be done using paired t tests or Wilcoxon signed rank test for pre and post intervention comparisons and repeated measures ANOVA for longitudinal QoL assessment at baseline three months and six months Expected outcomes include improved QoL self esteem and body image after EBP use and identification of key barriers to EBP adoption

This study will provide critical evidence to integrate post mastectomy rehabilitation into routine oncology care