Reduction mammaplasty and related impact on psychosexual function.

INTRODUCTION

Reduction mammaplasty brings an effective improvement, both from the physical and psychological points of view. However, psychosexual consequences are as yet poorly studied, although scars, impairment of sensibility, change in shape and asymmetry can have a negative effect on sexual life.

AIM

These authors retrospectively reviewed 55 patients to verify the existence of a close relationship between this popular surgical procedure and psychosexual function.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

All patients were compared to a group (51 healthy women) chosen from the hospital personnel. Both groups answered four psychological questionnaires (Short Form (SF)-36, Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (Ham-A), Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (Ham-D), Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI)) anonymously, in addition to the scar-assessment test as a single physical test. Psychological tests aim to evaluate self-esteem, quality of life (SF-36) and sexual function in women (FSFI, a test based on Erectile Function Index of Male). High levels of anxiety and depression were used as exclusion criteria in our study (Ham-D and Ham-A). Statistical analysis was based on non-parametric correlation test adjusted for small groups and Spearman's rho test to verify the associations among sub-items scales.

RESULTS

Almost all patients (98%) fulfilled the inclusion criteria for our study. Sexual function index was equal in both groups, but it still showed a higher quality of life in the control group. Nevertheless, the SF-36 value of the patients' group is still enough to allow for acceptable self-esteem.

CONCLUSIONS

We can confirm that reduction mammaplasty does not impair sexual satisfaction or quality of life; moreover, we believe that this procedure can improve such indices. Further investigation will compare patient's values prior to and following surgery to put in evidence a stronger relationship between mammary reduction and sexual function.