Investigation of the Anthropometric Changes in Breast Volume and Measurements After Breast Reduction

Objective This study aims to compare breast volume changes and other anthropometric measurements by using before and after breast reduction pictures of women who underwent breast reduction operation in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery clinic and by performing measurements from the anatomic points indicated in the literature. Background Landmarks (previously identified as anatomic points) that show the success of breast reduction operation are not sufficient. Anthropometric points and their identification are of great importance for choosing the landmarks and identifying the statistical approaches to be used. Methods A total of 40 women were measured breast anthropometric measurements in pre- and post-operative breast reduction surgery changes by a photographic technique using Image J programme from the anatomical points determined in the literature. Comparison of right and left breast anthropometric measurements before and after the operation was performed using the paired t test or Wilcoxon signed rank test. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Bland-Altman plots were used to determine the agreement between each pair of measurements. Results There was a statistically significant agreement between all the measurements (p<0.001). According to the Bland-Altman graphics, right and left breast measurements after the operation were within the limits of agreement according to all measurement points. Conclusion This study presented anthropometric measurements to show and guide patient satisfaction and aesthetic success of the operations performed by plastic surgeons.