The Role of Decision Aids and Soft Tissue Simulations in Breast Reduction Surgery: A Pilot Study

In this study, we aimed to assess the impact of soft tissue simulations as a decision aid on BREAST-Q outcomes after breast reduction surgery. A total of 7 patients underwent breast reduction. The mean BREAST-Q scores at baseline and 6 months showed significant differences in the domains of satisfaction with breasts (20.1 ± 10.1 versus 78.3 ± 8.1; P < 0.001), psychosocial well-being (29.2 ± 12.2 versus 81.2 ± 9.0; P < 0.001), sexual well-being (29.0 ± 14.5 versus 74.0 ± 12.3; P < 0.001), and physical well-being (40.2 ± 14.3 versus 78.6 ± 10.2; P < 0.001). When patients were asked, "On a scale of 1 to 10, how challenging do you find the decision-making process for selecting a postoperative breast cup size?" the mean score was 9.6 ± 0.5. When asked, "How helpful are these images in helping you choose your preferred breast cup size?" all respondents selected "extremely helpful" (n = 10, 100.0%). This pilot study supported the use of soft tissue simulations as a decision aid to improve patient satisfaction.