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Reduction mammaplasty: a safe and effective outpatient procedure
K K Short1, S L Ringler, B P Bengtson
1Hunstad Center for Cosmetic Plastic Surgery, Charlotte, North Carolina 28213, USA.
Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
|November 1, 1996
Summary
Reduction mammaplasty is safe and effective as an outpatient procedure, with high patient satisfaction and significant cost savings. This study found no difference in rehospitalization or reoperation rates between inpatient and outpatient breast reduction surgery.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Surgical Outcomes
Background:
- Reduction mammaplasty traditionally required inpatient hospitalization.
- Many surgical procedures have transitioned to outpatient settings successfully.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of outpatient reduction mammaplasty.
- To compare outcomes between inpatient and outpatient breast reduction procedures.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 331 patients undergoing bilateral reduction mammaplasty (1989-1993).
- Comparison of inpatient vs. outpatient groups regarding demographics, surgical factors, complications, and patient satisfaction.
- Minimum nine-month follow-up.
Main Results:
- No statistical differences in age, marital status, preoperative health, technique, or resection weight.
- Inpatients were heavier, more prone to complications, and less likely to receive antibiotics.
- No significant differences in rehospitalization, emergency department returns, or reoperations.
- Over 95% patient satisfaction in both groups.
Conclusions:
- Outpatient reduction mammaplasty is a safe and effective procedure.
- High patient acceptance and satisfaction support outpatient breast reduction.
- Significant cost savings are associated with outpatient procedures.