Sexual Function and Depression Outcomes Among Breast Hypertrophy Patients Undergoing Reduction Mammaplasty: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

PURPOSE: The breasts are important symbols of femininity and sensuality. Alterations such as breast hypertrophy can affect several aspects of women's quality of life. Breast hypertrophy is a prevalent health condition, which is treated by reduction mammaplasty. The aim of the present study was to assess sexual function and depression outcomes among breast hypertrophy patients undergoing reduction mammaplasty.

METHODS: Sixty breast hypertrophy patients were randomly allocated to a control group (CG) (n = 30) or a breast reduction group (BRG) (n = 30). The patients in the CG were assessed at the first appointment as well as 3 and 6 months later. The patients in the BRG were assessed preoperatively as well as 3 and 6 months postoperatively. Validated instruments, the Female Sexual Function Index and the Beck Depression Inventory, were used to assess sexual function and depression among the subjects. The results of these assessments were compared within and between groups.

RESULTS: Twenty-seven and 29 patients in the CG and the BRG, respectively, completed the 6-month follow-up period. At baseline, the groups did not differ significantly with regard to the main demographic data. In the initial assessment, the groups did not differ significantly with regard to Female Sexual Function Index or Beck Depression Inventory scores. Compared with the CG, the BRG reported better sexual function 3 (P = 0.015) and 6 (P = 0.009) months postoperatively. Regarding depression scores, the reduction mammaplasty group had better results 6 months postoperatively (P = 0.014).

CONCLUSIONS: Reduction mammaplasty positively affected sexual function and depression levels in breast hypertrophy patients.