Evaluation of satisfaction and the quality of life after bilateral breast reconstruction using the BREAST-Q questionnaire.

BACKGROUND

The demand of breast reconstruction is growing, the purpose of this study is to evaluate the satisfaction and quality of life of patients who underwent bilateral breast reconstruction.

METHODS

In this cohort retrospective study, patients who underwent bilateral breast reconstruction in our department between September 2009 and December 2019 were asked to complete BREAST-Q questionnaire based on the timing of the reconstruction received following mastectomy, thus dividing them into three groups: (1) bilateral immediate breast reconstruction(BIBR), (2) immediate breast reconstruction in one side and delayed reconstruction on the other side (mixed group), (3) bilateral delayed breast reconstruction(BDBR). Surgical techniques were divided into prosthesthetic (permanent implant and expander), flaps (pedicle or free), mixed technique (associating flap and prosthesis).

RESULTS

Seventy-one out of 94 patients responded to our BREAST-Q questionnaire, with a response rate of 84.5%. A high score is associated with a better result, except in physical well-being where a lower score indicates better outcome. The average score for psychosocial well-being is 63.0 (±17.2) achieving the lowest among the BDBR group. Physical well-being score is 26.0 (±18.6) scoring the highest in BIBR group. Sexual well-being score is 52.2 (±17.4) and seen highest among BDBR group. Satisfaction with breast score is 54.1 (±10.0) and was highest among mixed group.

CONCLUSION

The therapeutic proposal was personalized based on patient profile and choice. The best reconstruction treatment enhancing the quality of life and patient satisfaction remains the option chosen by the patient and whose advantages and disadvantages are accepted by them.