Bilateral breast reduction surgery in elderly women--a retrospective review of outcomes.

Background: Breast reduction surgery is successful in improving symptoms associated with breast hypertrophy. We sought to substantiate this in the elderly patient and ascertain how they regarded the outcome.

Methods: The WHO defines elderly as 60 and over. All elderly patients undergoing BBR for breast hypertrophy over a ten-year period at a single institution were identified. Retrospective review of medical records was conducted and patients asked to complete a postal questionnaire.

Results: 25/29 (86%) patients responded. 88% felt surgery improved appearance and symptoms. A statistically significant improvement in symptoms, appearance and confidence was demonstrated. 54% of patients voiced negative concerns regarding their surgery. One third were unhappy with final appearance. 2/24 regretted surgery.

Conclusions: Although studies showing positive outcomes for breast reduction in breast hypertrophy are many, none have specifically looked at elderly patients. Most patients seek relief of functional symptoms. Cosmesis seems to be less an issue. That they achieve improvement in symptoms is reassuring, despite longevity of symptoms and possible concomitant musculoskeletal degeneration. However despite satisfaction with relief of symptoms, much dissatisfaction can be felt over less than perfect cosmesis. We feel attention to detail is key, even in the elderly undergoing functional procedures.