Perceptions and experiences of female burn survivors with facial disfigurement

PURPOSE: This study aimed at exploring the perceptions and experiences of female burn survivors with facial disfigurement in Pakistan. METHODS: Two different quantitative and qualitative studies were conducted, of which the data were collected from 100 burn patients. A pilot interview protocol was developed. An indepth interview of five female burn survivors with facial disfigurement was taken in Lahore, Pakistan. The transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis and four major themes were identified, respectively physical appearance, posttraumatic growth, relationships and coping strategies. RESULTS: Thematic analysis reflected differences in attributional style, perceptions and individual experiences of female burn survivors with facial disfigurement. The study showed the importance of physical appearance for different burn survivors and how their life had changed after suffering from a burn injury. CONCLUSION: It could be easy to have a positive outlook towards life and accept visible differences post injury for the burn survivors, who are grateful for life, get a strong family support and have available resources. On the contrary, with low self-esteem, lack of a family support and available resources, patients would be dissatisfied with their life.