Patient experiences with same-day discharge after prepectoral implant-based breast reconstruction

Advancements in breast reconstruction, including prepectoral implant-based breast reconstruction, are increasingly being incorporated into same-day discharge protocols within enhanced recovery after surgery pathways. However, data evaluating patient-centered outcomes within these care models remain limited. This exploratory mixed methods study assessed satisfaction, safety perceptions, and implementation considerations among women undergoing same-day discharge after post-mastectomy prepectoral implant-based breast reconstruction post-COVID. Twenty participants completed semi-structured interviews with quantitative data from the Surgical Satisfaction Questionnaire and same-day discharge-specific items, and qualitative data that were subjected to content analysis. All participants reported satisfaction with postoperative pain control, and nearly all felt safe and satisfied with same-day discharge. Most were satisfied with return to daily and social activities, although fewer were satisfied with return to exercise. Qualitative findings identified factors supporting pathway success, including effective pain management and clear communication, as well as modifiable challenges related to preparation, early recovery vulnerability, and adjustment to longer-term changes. These findings highlight the patients’ favorable views of same-day discharge and identify actionable targets to improve surgical care pathways, discharge protocols, and multidisciplinary follow-up in post-mastectomy pre-pectoral implant-based breast reconstruction.