Psychologie et relation d'aide en réhabilitation maxillofaciale

Abstract

As an alternative to reconstructive surgery, maxillo-facial prosthesis allows the rehabilitation of maxillo-facial abnormalities. Whatever the origin of the abnormality, undertaking restoration of the facial mutilation induces dealing with the patient’s psychological suffering. The success of the prosthetic procedure depends on the therapeutic management which should include a close support of the patient. A psychological management of the patient and of his family is necessary throughout the patient’s medical history, and necessitates the involvement of a multidisciplinary team. Various techniques for supporting patients exist, such as sophrology, and are of utmost importance in terms of stress coping and in mobilizing patient’s personal resources.