Breast Hypertrophy, Reduction Mammaplasty, and Body Image

Postoperative Outcomes and Complications in Menopaused Patients after Reduction Mammoplasty

Background

Symptomatic macromastia is a debilitating condition that affects millions of women worldwide. Although reduction mammoplasty is the gold standard treatment, the association between estrogen levels and wound healing has been established in literature. Hence, this study aimed to compare the postoperative outcomes and complications between menopaused and non-menopaused women after reduction mammoplasty.

Method

This study offers a retrospective multimodal observation and analysis comparing menopaused and non-menopaused women. Using data collected from January 2018 to May 2024, patients who met the selection criteria were divided into 2 groups. Complications following reduction mammoplasty were recorded and analyzed.

Results

A total of 110 patients were included in this study, among them 80 patients were in the non-menopaused group and 30 in the menopaused group. Our statistical analysis indicated that the hospital stay was significantly longer in the menopaused group (P=0.008). Additionally, postoperative dog ears were significantly more frequent in the menopaused group (P=0.034). Conversely, scar hypertrophy occurred more frequently in non-menopaused patients (P=0.02).

Conclusion

Although menopaused women undergoing single or bilateral reduction mammoplasty had longer duration of hospital stay, they did not have higher risk of postoperative complications, except for higher rate of developing dog ears, which may be ascribed to the faltering estrogen levels of this population. Non-menopaused women had a higher rate of hypertrophic scars.

Topographic Analysis of the Nipple-Areolar Complex Sensation in Superomedial Pedicle Breast Reduction

BACKGROUND

Surgeons meticulously perform breast reductions, while ensuring vascular integrity of the pedicle and Nipple-Areolar complex (NAC) to prevent any complication. It is crucial to remember that loss of sensation is also substantial complication, mainly due to unique characteristic features of the NAC. This study aimed to compare early and long-term sensory results by performing topographic analysis of NAC sensation after superomedial pedicle breast reduction.

METHODS

A prospective study was conducted by including nonrandomized female patients who underwent breast reduction surgery with wise pattern excision superomedial pedicle technique between January 2019 and June 2022. Semmes-Weinstein Monofilament (SWM) test performed at preoperatively, 3-6 months and 15-18 months postoperatively. NAC complex was divided into four equal quadrants and nipple: superomedial (SM), inferomedial (IM), inferolateral (IL), superolateral (SL) and Nipple (N). Touch-Test® Sensory Evaluator Chart was used to evaluate sensory results.

RESULTS

None of the patients had any loss of sensation during preoperative SWM test. In postoperative 3-6 months, statistically significant differences were observed between N and SL (p = 0.002), SL and IM (p < 0.05), SM and IM (p < 0.05). In postoperative 15-18 months, there was no difference between the quadrants and nipple (p = 0.07). In early and long-term comparisons of the same quadrants, IL less pronounced than other quadrant comparisons (p = 0.034). A statistical difference was observed in overall NAC score (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

It would be beneficial to inform patients overall NAC sensation in the postoperative may not be as good as preoperative, there might be variations in NAC sensation across different quadrants in early period.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Reduction Mammoplasty Using the McKissock Technique With a Free Nipple Graft: A Safe Approach

Mammary hypertrophy, or macromastia, is an increase in breast tissue volume due to multiple etiologies and still unknown pathophysiology. We report the case of a 45-year-old patient with juvenile macromastia, which caused cervical pain and decreased quality of life. It was decided to perform a reduction mammoplasty with a modified McKissock technique with a free nipple graft; the resected glandular tissue was 1039 grams in the right breast and 1029 grams in the left breast. An adequate projection of the upper pole was achieved with a good aesthetic result and clinical improvement of the patient.

Investigation of the Relationship of Functional Improvement and Body Mass Index in Breast Reduction Patients

INTRODUCTION

Due to macromastia, center of gravity changes and neck, shoulder, back pain become prominent. Macromastia and obesity separately cause pain and an increase in curves of vertebra. The aim of this study is to compare the functional benefits of reduction mammoplasty between obese and non-obese patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data of this retrospective study were collected from archives and include preoperative/postoperative thoracic Cobb angles, preoperative/postoperative VAS scores, BMI and resected breast tissue weight of patients who underwent reduction mammaplasty operations between August 2017 and April 2019 in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery Department.

RESULTS

This study shows that reduction mammoplasty enables significant decrease both in thoracic kyphosis angles and in neck, shoulder and back VAS scores. However, no significant difference was found in preoperative/postoperative values and mean amount of changes of thoracic kyphosis angles between obese and non-obese patients. Decreases in neck, shoulder and back VAS scores were not found statistically significant between two groups. The breast resection amount was not related to correction of kyphosis, but it enabled only a significant decrease in neck VAS scores.

CONCLUSION

Functional improvement was not related to body mass index in reduction mammoplasty patients. Functional benefits were observed similarly in both obese and non-obese patients. A precise threshold value for body weight, body mass index and amount of breast tissue could not be defined as an indication for functional reduction mammoplasty.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Reduction Mammoplasty in the Pediatric Population: An Analysis of Pediatric NSQIP Data From 2012 to 2019

Introduction: Reduction mammoplasty is becoming more commonly performed in the pediatric population yet the risk factors for complications have not been well-studied. The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between preoperative patient characteristics and postoperative complications in a large population of pediatric patients undergoing reduction mammoplasty. Methods: Pediatric patients undergoing reduction mammoplasty were identified within the 2012 to 2019 National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database for cross-sectional study. The predictor variables were age, body mass index (BMI), diabetes, chronic steroid use, time under anesthesia, and operative time, and the primary outcome was a 30-day postoperative surgical site-related complication. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify a relationship between predictor variable and primary outcome. Results: A total of 1216 pediatric patients were identified with a mean age of 16.6 years and mean BMI of 30.8 kg/m2. The incidence of overall postoperative complications was 4.6%. Superficial surgical site infection (SSI) was the most common complication (29/1216; 2.4%). BMI was significantly associated with superficial SSI (odds ratio: 1.03, 95% confidence interval: 1.00-1.05, P = .02). Sixteen patients (1.32%) underwent a second operation, most commonly to address hematoma/seroma (7/16; 43.8%). Conclusion: In a large series of patients, pediatric reduction mammoplasty is a safe procedure with a low complication rate. BMI was significantly associated with the incidence of superficial SSIs with the most common cause for reoperation being a hematoma/seroma. This study can help guide the discussion between physicians and patients regarding potential risks associated with pediatric reduction mammoplasty.

Association Between Body Weight and Removed Weight in Women Undergoing Reduction Mammaplasty-A 17-year Retrospective Study of 1777 Breasts

BACKGROUND

Breast hypertrophy causes physical and psychological symptoms. Reduction mammaplasty is a surgical procedure to lessen discomfort. However, there is a dispute about whether the weight of breast resection is related to body weight. This study aims to provide Chinese data and assess the association between body weight and removed weight in women undergoing reduction mammaplasty.

METHODS

Retrospective data were collected from 1777 breasts in a single center in 17 years. Simple linear regression analysis was performed to establish whether removed weight and removed weight ratio (removed weight/body weight) correlated with the body weight. The correlations were then analyzed again after grouping according to the removed weight.

RESULTS

For all breasts included, removed weight or ratio positively correlates with body weight. When the removed weight is more than 1000g, there is no statistically significant correlation between body weight and removed breast weight. When removed per breast weight is more than 600g, there is no correlation between body weight and removed breast weight ratio.

CONCLUSIONS

The correlation between body weight and removed weight or ratio decreased with increasing removed weight. When removed weight >600g, the degree of breast hypertrophy is not related to body shape.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these evidence-based medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 . Therapeutic study.

Macromastia and Reduction Mammaplasty: Analysis of Outpatient Cost of Care and Opioid Consumption at 5 Years Postoperatively

BACKGROUND

Macromastia is associated with increased opioid consumption, which could potentially be the initial exposure for patients with an opioid use disorder amid an escalating opioid crisis in the United States.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to evaluate outpatient cost of care and opioid consumption in patients with macromastia and compare those who underwent reduction mammaplasty vs those who did not have surgery.

METHODS

PearlDiver, a database encompassing a national cohort of private payers with 153 million unique patients, was queried. The study cohort included patients diagnosed with macromastia who did or did not undergo reduction mammaplasty utilizing both ICD-9 and ICD-10 and CPT codes. Outpatient cost of care and morphine milligram equivalents (MME) were calculated up to 5 years postoperatively for both cohorts.

RESULTS

At 1 to 3 years postoperatively, there was no statistically significant difference in outpatient cost of care between cohorts. At every follow-up thereafter, outpatient cost of care was higher among macromastia patients who did not undergo reduction mammaplasty, with cohort differences of US$240.68 and US$349.90 at 4 years and 5 years, respectively (P < .05). MME consumption was greater in patients who underwent reduction mammaplasty up to 30 days postoperatively (P < .01). Beyond that, there was no significant difference in MME consumption between cohorts. However, patients who did not undergo surgery had opioid consumption levels above 50 MME/day until 3 years after diagnosis of macromastia.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with macromastia who undergo reduction mammaplasty have lower outpatient care costs than patients who do not undergo reduction mammaplasty, with safer long-term opioid consumption in alignment with current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines.

Safe Reproducible Breast Reduction

Breast reduction is a common operation performed by plastic surgeons. Patients can have significant improvement in physical symptoms in addition to increased self-esteem, body image, and quality of life as a result. The authors describe common techniques for breast reduction and provide representative photographs and videos of these techniques. An evidence-based review is provided for patient selection criteria, common surgical techniques, and methods to avoid and treat complications. Information is also provided on patient education about breast reduction. In most cases, breast reduction is safe to perform in the outpatient setting. The Wise pattern and vertical pattern are among the most common techniques for skin incisions, and the inferior and superomedial pedicles are two of the most common pedicles used in breast reduction. Enhanced Recovery After Surgery protocols are helpful to effectively control pain and reduce narcotic use postoperatively. Patient satisfaction after breast reduction surgery is typically high. Multiple techniques are available to successfully perform breast reduction. The plastic surgeon needs to select patients carefully and determine the appropriate technique to use. Patient education about the operation, recovery, expected result, and risks is an important component of achieving an optimal result.

Reduction Mammoplasty for Macromastia: Our Experience Using the Inferior Pedicle with Inverted-T Skin Resection

Introduction

Macromastia is a major reason why women seek for breast reduction especially when there are symptoms. Breast reduction is an uncommon procedure in our environment and this is a report of our experience with inferior pedicle with an inverted-T skin resection.

Materials and Methods

This is a report of breast reductions using the inferior pedicle with an inverted-T skin resection approach that were carried out between 2004 and 2022. The information that was retrieved from the case notes were age, marital status, parity, last child birth, family history of breast enlargement, presenting features, height, weight, the weight of tissue excised, and complications. The data obtained were then entered into the SPSS version 25 (IBM Corp.) software and analysed.

Results

Seventeen women were managed with an age range of 16-50 years and a mean of 31.06 ± 9.66 years. The most common features at presentation were heavy weight around the chest, backache, shoulder pain, no appropriate brassiere with low self-esteem and self-confidence. Ten had skin changes and recurrent rashes over the breast, whereas four complained of grooves with skin changes. The weight of excised breast tissue ranged from 0.2 to 5.5 kg with an average of 2.18 ± 1.28 kg for the right and 2.05 ± 1.00 kg for the left breast. All except one patient had blood transfusion. The common complications were delayed wound healing (47%) followed by partial wound dehiscence (17.6%), and flap necrosis (11.8%). Except for those with flap necrosis the wounds healed with some having broad scars.

Conclusions

Patients for breast reduction are mainly due to the symptoms and signs with the associated large breast. The inferior pedicle with inverted-T skin resection is a valuable technique with a very good outcome. To improve access to breast reduction, there is the need to enhance awareness through advocacy using women groups and health education.

Return to Work after Breast Reduction: A Comparative Study

(1) Background: Breast hypertrophy is a prevalent condition among women worldwide, which can affect different aspects of their quality of life. Uncertainty exists in the medical literature about recommendations for return to work after reduction mammaplasty procedures. The aim of this study was to assess the return to work after reduction mammaplasty for women with breast hypertrophy. (2) Methods: A retrospective cohort study composed of chart review of all reduction mammaplasties performed at a single institution due to breast hypertrophy was considered. Patients not in working life were excluded. Patients were divided into two groups based on the sick leave duration: normal versus prolonged. Prolonged sick leave time was defined as times greater than the 75th percentile for the respective sample data. Demographic and comorbidity data were secondary predictor variables. The primary outcome measure was the occurrence of prolonged sick leave. Secondary endpoints were specific wound healing complications and late complications. We further compare postoperative complications between patients who received a sick leave of 3 weeks versus the other patient cohort. (3) Results: From a total of 490 patients, 407 of them were employed at intake. Mean time to working return after reduction mammaplasty was 4.0 ± 0.9 weeks. Prolonged sick leave occurred in 77 patients and its mean duration was 5.5 ± 0.9 weeks. No differences in age, preoperative BMI, smoking, comorbidities, number of children or use of herbal supplements were detected. Significantly increased intraoperative blood loss occurred in the group who received prolonged sick leave (328.3 mL vs. 279.2 mL, p = 0.031). Postoperative complications were significantly higher in the group who experienced a prolonged sick leave (26.5% vs. 11.2%, p < 0.001), particularly infections and wound dehiscence incidences. No differences in late complications were detected (>30 days, 6.5% vs. 7.6%, p = 0.729). When comparing patients who received a 3 week sick leave with the rest of cohort, blood loss was significantly higher in the group who had a longer sick leave (230.9 mL vs. 303.7 mL, p < 0.001). (4) Conclusions: The occurrence of postoperative complications increased the patients’ return to work time. Comorbidities and preoperative parameters did not affect the length of sick leave. It appears reasonable to suggest a recovery period of approximately 3 weeks, subject to individual variations. An increased intraoperative blood loss might predict a prolonged sick leave.

Comparison of Body Image and Body Exposure During Sexual Activity and Sexual Assertiveness Among Mastectomized Women with/Without Mammaplasty and Mammaplasty Volunteer Patients

Background: Mastectomy can change body image and affect the sexual activities of patients. Breast reconstruction is a way to reduce the sexual damage caused by mastectomy. Objectives: The present study aimed to compare body image and body exposure during sexual activity and sexual assertiveness among mastectomized women with/without mammaplasty and patients with cancer who volunteered for mammoplasty. Methods: This causal-comparative study was performed on the statistical population of mastectomized women with/without mammaplasty and patients who volunteered for mammoplasty within the age range of 25 - 55 years in Tehran, Iran, in 2018. The sample consisted of 37 women with mastectomy, 28 mastectomized women who volunteered for mammoplasty, and 31 women who underwent mammaplasty after mastectomy. The subjects were selected through convenience sampling in Tehran. All participants were asked to complete the Assessment of Body-Image Cognitive Distortions Questionnaire, the Body Exposure during Sexual Activities Questionnaire, and the Hurlbert Index of Sexual Assertiveness. The data were analyzed by analysis of variance using version 20th of SPSS software. Results: In terms of body-image cognitive distortions, there was no difference between the three groups. The women who underwent mammaplasty had less body exposure during sexual activity than patients who volunteered for mammoplasty (P < 0.01); however, there was no difference between the mastectomized patients and patients who underwent mammaplasty. Exposure to the body or anxious attentional focus on the body during sexual activity was reported frequently less in mastectomized women than in mammaplasty volunteers (P < 0.01). The sexual assertiveness of women who underwent reconstructive surgery was more than mastectomized women and volunteer patients for reconstructive surgery (P < 0.01). The mastectomized group had more sexual assertiveness than patients who volunteered for mammoplasty (P < 0.01). Conclusions: The results support the hypothesis that the issue of body image and its relationship with different aspects of sexual function is complex and requires considering different personality traits and factors as moderators. The importance that a woman places on the breast as a symbol of femininity and sexuality is one of the aforementioned factors. The purpose of reconstruction from the patient’s point of view and the importance that a woman gives to her appearance are other components that should be considered before proceeding with mammoplasty.

Analysis of adolescent patient satisfaction and well-being following reduction mammaplasty using the BREAST-Q survey

BACKGROUND

While functional breast reduction surgery has been shown to lead to increased quality of life in adult patients, the effects of this operation has not been investigated as thoroughly in adolescent patients. This study uses the BREAST-Q, a validated, surgery-specific questionnaire, to measure changes in adolescent patient well-being and satisfaction following reduction mammaplasty.

METHODS

All patients presenting for breast reduction consultation between February and December 2016 were asked to complete the BREAST-Q. Post-operative surveys were completed at three-month follow up. A matched control cohort was established using patients who completed a pre-operative survey and were deemed appropriate surgical candidates, but then were denied by insurance and did not undergo surgery.

RESULTS

Of the 28 adolescent patients who presented for breast reduction consultation, 15 met inclusion criteria; 11 patients underwent reduction mammaplasty, and 4 patients were included in the control cohort. When these groups were compared, statistically significant improvements were observed in all BREAST-Q categories except for sexual well-being. Overall patient satisfaction correlated most highly to satisfaction with information.

CONCLUSIONS

This study examines quality of life outcomes in adolescent breast reduction patients using the BREAST-Q survey. Our findings indicate that adolescent patients have an improved quality of life following breast reduction, but that their satisfaction stems from different sources from those of adult patients. Further characterization of outcomes specific to young patients with surgically managed symptomatic macromastia will increase the practice of tailored, evidence-based medicine for adolescent patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Treatment Study, Level III.

Effect of Reduction Mammoplasty on Insulin and Lipid Metabolism in the Postoperative Third month: Compensatory Hip Enlargement

BACKGROUNDS

The positive effects of reduction mammoplasty on metabolic profile have been shown in a limited number of studies. This study objective to reveal the effects of reduction mammoplasty on metabolic profile and anthropometric measurements.

SUBJECTS AND METHOD

The study was prospectively conducted on 42 patients who were operated between April 2019 and March 2020. Fasting plasma glucose, fasting plasma insulin, total cholesterol, triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, HgA1c, homeostasis model assessment scores, adiponectin, leptin, and resistin levels were evaluated. In addition, age, height, weight, body mass index; breast, chest, waist, hip circumference; waist-hip ratio, and bilateral breast resection tissue weights were recorded. Data and blood samples were collected one hour before the operation, 6 and 12 weeks after the operation.

RESULT

The patients' mean age was 43.14±10.24, and their average height was 159.42±4.96 cm. The excised bilateral dermo fatty tissue weight was 1435.85±721.16 g. At the postoperative 40th day a decrease in leptin (p = 0.001), resistin (p =0.008), glucose (p = 0.021) and insulin resistance values (p=0.013) stated. There was an increase in adiponectin (p < 0.001) and HDL (p = 0.013) levels at the postoperative 40th day. In the postoperative third month, these data returned to the previous levels that were measured before operations. However, an increase in hip circumference (p = 0.034) and a decrease in waist-hip ratio (p < 0.001) was detected in third month. Also, there was no difference in body mass index and weight compared to pre-operation.

CONCLUSION

After reduction mammoplasty, compensatory fat growth in the hip area, an increase in the hip circumference, and a decrease in the waist-hip ratio were observed in the postoperative third month.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Patient Satisfaction Following Inverted-T and Short-Scar Mammaplasty as Measured by the Breast Evaluation Questionnaire 55

BACKGROUND

Mastopexy combined with silicone implant placement is one of the most frequently performed plastic surgeries. Various techniques have been developed to increase the degree of patient satisfaction after surgery. The goal is to give the breasts a harmonious shape, generating the smallest scars possible. The Breast Evaluation Questionnaire 55 (BEQ 55) was developed in 2006 as a tool for assessing the satisfaction and comfort of patients with the general appearance of their breasts.

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to compare the degree of satisfaction of patients undergoing mastopexy by the inverted-T technique vs the short-scar technique by the BEQ 55.

METHODS

The BEQ 55 was administered pre- and postoperatively to 200 patients who underwent mastopexy performed by the first author between October 2013 and September 2017. One hundred patients underwent the short-scar technique, and 100 patients underwent the inverted-T technique.

RESULTS

The first analysis used descriptive statistics. Relative frequencies were used to track the responses corresponding to each technique. There was an increase in the level of patient comfort and satisfaction with breast appearance after surgery in both groups. The short-scar technique was shown to be superior, with statistical significance (P < 0.05) found for the questions evaluating comfort with overall appearance naked, comfort with breast appearance naked, and satisfaction with breast appearance.

CONCLUSIONS

Both techniques improved the patients' satisfaction and comfort with their breasts. When the short-scar technique was used, patients were more comfortable with their breast appearance and with their overall appearance naked.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4

Breast Reduction in Adults: Identifying Risk Factors for Overall 30-Day Postoperative Complications

BACKGROUND

Breast reduction is a commonly performed procedure. Understanding the postoperative complication profile is important for preoperative planning and patient education.

OBJECTIVES

The authors sought to assess complication rates following breast reduction in females and identify potential risk factors.

METHODS

We assessed the records of the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program participant use files that include patients who underwent breast reduction for macromastia between 2005 and 2016. Relevant patient and postoperative data were extracted, and factors affecting complications were analyzed utilizing the logistic regression model.

RESULTS

We identified 20,001 women aged a mean 43.9 years who underwent breast reduction. The number of patients who developed ≥1 complication was 1009 (4.3%). Our adjusted analysis revealed that outpatient setting (odds ratio [OR] = 0.600) and performance of the surgery by the attending surgeon alone (OR = 0.678) were associated with lower odds, whereas higher body mass index (OR = 1.046) and smoking (OR = 1.518) were associated with higher odds for complications following breast reduction. Outpatient setting (OR = 0.317) was also associated with lower odds whereas smoking (OR = 1.613) and American Society of Anesthesiologists class were associated with higher odds of returning to the operative room. These findings were consistent in our subgroup analysis for wound-related complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study shows that patient characteristics such as smoking and body mass index may increase complication rates after breast reduction. Clinical factors such as inpatient setting may also increase risk of complications following breast reduction. It is critical to understand the effect of these factors to better predict postoperative outcomes and ensure thorough patient education.

[Factors influencing drainage productivity in breast reduction: A retrospective study of 222 breasts]

INTRODUCTION

The objective of this study is to highlight the factors that influence drain productivity in reduction mastoplasty.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We have retrospectively referenced from November 2015 to November 2017 all breast reduction performed in the plastic surgery, reconstructive and esthetic surgery department of the University Hospital of Nancy. A total of 222 breasts were analyzed by listing age, weight, height, Body Mass Index (BMI), smoking status, surgeon, technical used, hospitalization stay, breast volume removed, type and size of drain and their productivity. Multivariate analysis were realised.

RESULTS

118 patients were included with an average age of 42.2 years. The average productivity of drains was 50 millilitres (ml). There was a significant difference in productivity of drainage according to the operator with a median ranging from 10ml to 60ml (P<0.0001). The median was 20ml for 10 Redon-Jost drains versus 50ml for the 16 Redon-Jost drains (P<0.0001). Multivariate analysis of the various factors influencing the total productivity of postoperative drainage showed a relative risk of 1.16 for smokers, 0.24 for one surgeon, 1.68 for the Skoog technique, and 1.000 for breast volume removed.

CONCLUSION

The drain productivity is not predictable before a breast reduction. Indeed, none of the characteristics studied have sufficient influence on the productivity of the drains.

Single dose versus 24 h antibiotic prophylaxis in reduction mammaplasty: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Background

Reduction mammaplasty is among the most commonly performed procedures in plastic surgery. Antibiotics are widely prescribed, on an empirical basis, to prevent surgical site infections. However, there is a lack of evidence to support its use. This trial aims to compare the influence of the use of prophylatic antibiotics as a single dose or for 24 h on surgical site infection rates following reduction mammaplasty.

Methods

Randomized trial of non-inferiority, with two parallel groups. A total of 146 breast hypertrophy patients, with reduction mammaplasty already scheduled, will be enrolled. Patients will be randomly allocated to the placebo group that will receive antibiotics only at the anesthesia induction (n = 73) or to the antibiotics group that will receive antibiotics at the anesthesia induction and for 24 h (n = 73). None of the patients will receive antibiotics after hospital discharge. Patients will be followed-up weekly, for 30 days, regarding surgical site infection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria will be applied. A statistical analysis of the data will be performed.

Discussion

Previous studies have demonstrated a decrease in infection rates after reduction mammaplasty when antibiotic prophylaxis was used, compared to the use of no antibiotics. However, the duration of antibiotic prophylaxis remains a point to be clarified. This study will test the hypothesis that maintaining the use of antibiotics for 24 h does not reduce infection rates compared to the use of a single preoperative dose.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov NCT04079686. Registered on September 6, 2019.

The relationship between breast size and aspects of health and psychological wellbeing in mature-aged women

OBJECTIVES

Increases in breast size with age are common but have not been widely examined as a factor that could affect the health and psychological wellbeing of mature-aged women. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships between breast size and aspects of health and psychological wellbeing in mature-aged women.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study of mature-aged women (⩾40 years). Breast size (breast size score) was determined from self-reported bra size and was examined against health-related quality of life (Medical Outcomes Study Short-Form 36 and BREAST-Q), body satisfaction (numerical rating scale), breast satisfaction (BREAST-Q), physical activity levels (Human Activity Profile), the presence of upper back pain and breast and bra fit perceptions.

RESULTS

Two hundred sixty-nine women (40-85 years) with bra band sizes ranging from 8 to 26 and bra cup sizes from A to HH participated. The mean (standard deviation) breast size score of 7.7 (2.7) was equivalent to a bra size of 14DD. Increasing breast size was associated with significantly lower breast-related physical wellbeing (p < 0.001, R2 = 0.043) and lower ratings of body (p = 0.002, R2 = 0.024) and breast satisfaction (p < 0.001, R2 = 0.065). Women with larger breasts were more likely to be embarrassed by their breasts (odds ratio: 1.49, 95% confidence interval: 1.31 to 1.70); more likely to desire a change in their breasts (odds ratio: 1.55, 95% confidence interval: 1.37 to 1.75) and less likely to be satisfied with their bra fit (odds ratio: 0.84, 95% confidence interval: 0.76 to 0.92). Breast size in addition to age contributed to explaining upper back pain. For each one-size increase in breast size score, women were 13% more likely to report the presence of upper back pain.

CONCLUSION

Larger breast sizes have a small but significant negative relationship with breast-related physical wellbeing, body and breast satisfaction. Larger breasts are associated with a greater likelihood of upper back pain. Clinicians considering ways to improve the health and psychological wellbeing of mature-aged women should be aware of these relationships.