Is reduction mammaplasty a stimulus for weight loss and improved quality of life?

Ann Plast Surg. 2010 May;64(5):585-7. doi: 10.1097/SAP.0b013e3181c5a841.

Abstract

Reducing breast size for women with macromastia does more than provide symptomatic relief. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether reduction mammaplasty was felt to be a stimulus for postoperative weight loss, subjective glucose control, and improved self-confidence. All patients who underwent reduction mammaplasty at Emory University Hospital by the senior author were reviewed. Patient demographics were queried, and a standardized questionnaire was devised to obtain information regarding postoperative weight, dress size, glucose control, and exercise. Forty-one women participated in the questionnaire. Mean follow-up was 2 years (range, 1-6). Patients were stratified according to whether they felt reduction mammaplasty was a stimulus for future weight loss; 63% stated yes (group A), 37% responded no (group B). Group A had significant postoperative weight loss (P < 0.001) and decreased dress size (P < 0.001). Group B had no change in weight (P = 0.239) or dress size (P = 0.735). There was 100% improvement of patient reported postoperative glucose control in group A and 50% improvement in group B. Sexual activity was improved in 85% of women in group A, and only 40% in group B. Group A patients had significantly increased postoperative exercise (P < 0.001); group B had no change. Reduction mammaplasty in motivated patients may be a stimulus for postoperative weight loss, and those patients were more physically active, had better glucose control and had an improved self-confidence.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Blood Glucose / analysis
  • Body Image
  • Body Mass Index
  • Breast / surgery*
  • Exercise
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Hypertrophy / surgery
  • Mammaplasty / methods*
  • Mammaplasty / psychology*
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Satisfaction
  • Quality of Life*
  • Sexual Behavior
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Weight Loss*

Substances

  • Blood Glucose