A Systematic Review of Breast Reconstruction Options After Mastectomy in Massive Weight Loss Patients

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.