The effects of breast reduction operation on patients' mood and sexual life

Aim. Breast hypertrophy is a condition that can negatively affect the quality of life of women in physical, psychological and sexual aspects. In this study, the effects of breast reduction operation on the psychological and sexual life of the patients in the postoperative period were investigated. Material and Methods. 31 patients who underwent breast reduction surgery were included in the study. The patients were evaluated preoperatively and 6 months after surgery. Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale and Beck Depression Scale were used for psychological evaluation. The Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale was used to evaluate sexual functions, as well. Results. The average age of the patients was 41.2 +/- 5.6 and the average BMI was 29.3 +/- 3.18. The mean scores of Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale before and after surgery was 1.36 +/- 0.94 and 1.02 +/- 0.63 (p < 0.05). The mean scores of Beck Depression Scale was 14.41 +/- 10.11 and 10.35 +/- 10.11 (p < 0.05), respectively. When the Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale was examined, a statistically significant positive effect was observed in all subgroups compared to the preoperative period. Discussion and Conclusions. After breast reduction surgery, patients have a very high level of satisfaction physically. There are some studies showing that breast reduction surgery has a positive effect on women, especially psychologically, but very limited research has been done on sexual function. This study showed that breast reduction surgery increases self-esteem and provides a positive effect on emotional state. At the same time, it has been found that it has a positive effect on sexual functions and sexual life.