A Systematic Review of Breast Reconstruction Options After Mastectomy in Massive Weight Loss Patients. Issue 3 (8th March 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sinik, Lauren; Egan, Katie G.; Patel, Krishna; Nazir, Niaman; Butterworth, James A.
• Is Part Of: Annals of plastic surgery. Volume 88:Issue 3(2022)
• Page Start: 353
• Page End: 359
• Publication Date: 2022-03-08
• Subjects: massive weight loss -- bariatric surgery -- breast reconstruction -- autologous reconstruction -- mastectomy; Surgery, Plastic -- Periodicals; 617.95205
• DOI: 10.1097/SAP.0000000000002940
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0148-7043

Abstract

Abstract: Given global trends in obesity and bariatric surgeries, there are an increasing number of women presenting for breast reconstruction after massive weight loss. There is a paucity of literature about breast reconstruction after mastectomy in patients with a history of massive weight loss. A literature review revealed 10 articles that discussed outcomes of different reconstruction techniques in patients with massive weight loss. Autologous reconstruction techniques and implant-based reconstruction techniques were assessed to evaluate the advantages, disadvantages, and indications of each approach specific to this unique patient population. This article provides a summary of expected outcomes, including complication profiles. Ultimately, consideration should be given for breast reconstruction of mastectomy defects in patients with a history of massive weight loss, as satisfactory results are demonstrated to be possible. Both autologous reconstruction and implant-based reconstruction present feasible options, although reconstruction in this patient population may be associated with increased need for revisions and a higher complication rate compared with patients without a history of massive weight loss. For this reason, it is imperative to appropriately manage preoperative expectations in patients with a history of massive weight loss.