Breast Reduction in Patients with Macromastia: Surgical Approaches and Mental and Physical Health Outcomes

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.1594972405116

• Palavras-chave: Macromastia; Breast reduction surgery; Physical and psychological outcomes; Reduction mammoplasty techniques; Quality of life improvements.

• Keywords: Macromastia; Breast reduction surgery; Physical and psychological outcomes; Reduction mammoplasty techniques; Quality of life improvements.

• Abstract: INTRODUCTION Macromastia presents significant physical and psychological challenges, often manifesting as chronic pain, respiratory restrictions, and skin complications. Conservative treatments provide limited relief, making breast reduction surgery a common solution for addressing these burdens. Various surgical techniques, such as pedicle approaches and liposuction, cater to individual patient needs and aim to enhance physical comfort and aesthetic outcomes. Patient satisfaction following breast reduction is generally high, with many reporting substantial improvements in self-esteem, physical function, and quality of life. The introduction emphasizes the importance of breast reduction as a multifaceted intervention that addresses both physical and mental health aspects in patients with macromastia. OBJETIVE To assess the physical and psychological outcomes of breast reduction surgery in patients with macromastia, examining the effectiveness of various surgical techniques and their impact on quality of life. METHODS This is a narrative review which included studies in the MEDLINE – PubMed (National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health), COCHRANE, EMBASE and Google Scholar databases, using as descriptors: “” AND “” AND “” AND “” AND “” in the last  years. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION The surgery consistently reduces musculoskeletal pain, alleviates skin issues, and improves respiratory capacity. Patients report high satisfaction, citing enhanced body image and psychological relief. However, scarring, changes in sensation, and the potential impact on breastfeeding capacity are noted complications. Physiotherapy and multidisciplinary postoperative care contribute to functional recovery, while newer, minimally invasive techniques show promise for improved aesthetic outcomes. The results highlight breast reduction as a successful intervention with comprehensive benefits, despite the necessity of managing some postoperative challenges. CONCLUSION Breast reduction surgery provides transformative relief for patients with macromastia, addressing chronic physical discomfort and promoting psychological well-being. The procedure’s physical benefits include significant pain relief and enhanced mobility, while psychological improvements reflect gains in self-esteem and social confidence. Complications are generally manageable, with patient education and multidisciplinary care enhancing recovery. Future research aims to refine surgical techniques and improve access to ensure broader benefits for patients with macromastia, underscoring the surgery’s vital role in enhancing quality of life.