Concept Analysis of “Body Image” in Japanese Patients after Mastectomy

Purpose: To explore concept of“ body image” for patients who underwent mastectomy dueto breast cancer. Data Synthesis: We used Schwartz-Barcott and Kim's hybrid model for concept analysis. Result: From the literature review, the studies investigating “body image” in patientsafter mastectomy due to breast cancer were explored factors that influenced the changeprocess; these factors included age, marital status, occupation, and emotional state.Patients appear capable of “avoiding confusion of body image on their own” throughtransforming their own “body image”. Images could be modified to avoid confusion,promote acceptance, and further integrate notions of self- concept and quality of life. Also,in the Fieldwork Stage, the following four core categories were extracted: [The image ofthe body], [Body perception], [Self-assessment] and [Actual actions]. At the Analysis Stage,the big difference weren't identified among these concepts. Conclusion: Body image reflected changes in individuals' physical condition due totreatment and judgments based on their own physical perceptions through accompanyingbehaviors. Images could be modified to avoid confusion, promote acceptance, and furtherintegrate notions of self-concept and quality of life.