The Impact of Higher BMI on Wound Complications Following Adolescent Breast Reduction: A Retrospective Study of 1215...

Macromastia is a physically and psychologically distressing condition for adolescents. While reduction mammaplasty is often the best treatment, risk factors for adolescent wound complications remain unclear. This study aims to investigate the impact of obesity and other predictors of postoperative wound complications following adolescent reduction mammaplasty using a national database.

The 2012-2019 National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Pediatric (NSQIP-P) databases were reviewed to identify primary reduction mammaplasty encounters. World Health Organization Body Mass Index (BMI), alongside patient and case characteristics, were assessed for association for 30-day wound disruption or surgical site complications. Statistical analyses were performed to identify independent predictors for complications and determine a potential BMI cutoff for risk stratification.

There were 1215 patients with an average age of 16.6 years. The average BMI was 30.7 kg/m², and 593 (48.8%) patients were nonobese while 622 (51.2%) were obese. The incidence of complications was 5.27%. Independent predictors of complications included a BMI 35-39.9, BMI  > 40, and an American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) Classification  > 3. A receiver operating characteristic curve determined that a BMI of 34.6 can be a potential cutoff for increased complication risk.

Higher obesity increases risk of wound complications; however, complication rates remain low. A BMI of 34.6 is a potential screening metric for counseling and monitoring patients. Reduction mammaplasty should remain a viable option as it can significantly improve quality of life.

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