Normative Data for Interpreting the BREAST-Q: Augmentation

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Patient-Reported Outcomes
• Health Outcomes Research

Background:

• The BREAST-Q Augmentation module is a validated tool for assessing outcomes of breast augmentation.
• A lack of normative data limits the interpretation of BREAST-Q scores in clinical practice.
• Establishing normative values is essential for benchmarking and understanding patient experiences.

Purpose of the Study:

• To generate normative data for the BREAST-Q Augmentation module.
• To provide a reference for interpreting patient-reported outcomes in breast augmentation.
• To compare normative scores with previously published augmentation study findings.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the "Army of Women" online community for data collection.
• Recruited women aged 18+ without prior breast cancer or surgery history via email.
• Performed descriptive statistics and linear multivariate regression analysis.

Main Results:

• 1211 women completed the preoperative BREAST-Q Augmentation module.
• Mean scores reported: Satisfaction with Breasts (54±19), Psychosocial Well-being (66±20), Sexual Well-being (49±20), Physical Well-being (86±15).
• Lower scores observed in women with BMI ≥ 30 kg/m² or bra cup size D+; published scores differed from normative data.

Conclusions:

• Army of Women data offer normative benchmarks for women not seeking augmentation.
• These data can serve as comparison values for patients undergoing breast augmentation.
• The findings highlight the potential value of breast augmentation in improving patient outcomes.