Data Collection and Analysis
Data were collected through individual, face-to-face interviews
in the participants’ homes, lasting one to two hours
each. The interviews were semistructured, and women were
questioned about their decisions regarding breast reconstruction
and feelings, experiences, and the impact of breast cancer,
mastectomy, and breast reconstruction on their functioning
and lifestyle. A later focus group interview was held with 8 of
the 10 participants. The semistructured focus group interview
was conducted to confirm relevance of the identified themes to
the women’s perception of their experience and to encourage
individual expression, group interaction, and identification of
issues and possible resolutions (Kreuger, 1998). All interviews
were audiorecorded and transcribed verbatim.
Thematic analysis of the data was performed. Transcripts
were analyzed separately, and common ideas were combined
and grouped into discussion topics. Commonalities and differences
were identified to develop emerging themes and subthemes.
The process was conducted manually; transcripts were
read twice, and data were organized twice and synthesized.
The authors achieved immersion through this method. The
findings were described to the participants in a focus group
format to ensure accurate interpretation and conceptualization