Predictors of complications following breast reduction surgery: A national surgical quality improvement program study of 16812 cases.

Publication date: Available online 20 September 2018

Source: Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery

Author(s): Andrew M. Simpson, Daniel P. Donato, Alvin C. Kwok, Jayant P. Agarwal

Abstract

Background

Breast reduction is one of the most common procedures performed by plastic surgeons. Despite good outcomes and high patient satisfaction, there is little national data examining the predictors leading to complications in this patient population. We accessed a national outcomes database to examine these factors.

Methods

This is a retrospective study examining the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database from 2006 through 2015. Patients undergoing primary breast reduction were identified. Patients undergoing any cancer-related procedures were excluded. We identified patient-related and procedure related factors for analysis. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to identify independent predictors of complications.

Results

16812 individual cases were identified. The overall complication rate for the cohort was 6.2% and the major complication rate was 3.0%. Diabetes, bleeding disorder, hypertension, obesity, smoking, steroid use and prolonged operative time were associated with increased risk of complications (p<0.05). Concurrent body contouring was a predictor of increased major complications, however liposuction was not.

Conclusions

Common surgical risk factors are associated with complications in breast reduction surgery. Although liposuction is not an independent risk factor, concurrent body contouring is associated with increased complications. Surgeons should be aware of these associations when discussing breast reduction with patients.