Establishing Institution-Specific Normative Data for the BREAST-Q Reconstruction Module: A Prospective Study

Abstract

Background: Breast satisfaction in general female populations is relatively unknown and prior research populations do not reflect our community.

Objectives: We sought to assess breast satisfaction in a cohort of female participants utilizing the BREAST-Q and determine the impact of participant-related factors.

Methods: Females with no history of breast cancer or breast surgery attending gynecology appointments completed preoperative BREAST-Q reconstruction modules and demographic forms in this prospective, single-center, patient-reported outcomes study. We also assessed participant-related factors capable of influencing BREAST-Q scores.

Results: Three hundred females were included. Increasing body mass index had significant associations with lower Satisfaction with Breasts and Psychosocial Well-being scores. Increasing age was associated with significantly lower Sexual Well-being scores. African Americans had significantly higher scores for Satisfaction with Breasts, Psychosocial Well-being, and Sexual Well-being compared with Caucasians. Bra cup sizes A and C were associated with significantly higher Psychosocial Well-being scores than other sizes. Bra cup sizes A, B, and C were associated with significantly higher Sexual Well-being and Physical Well-being: Chest scores than larger sizes. Bra cup sizes B and C were associated with significantly higher Physical Well-being: Abdomen scores than size DD. Bra cup size A was associated with significantly higher Satisfaction with Breasts scores than sizes DD and >DD. Bra cup size C was associated with significantly higher Satisfaction with Breasts scores than larger sizes.

Conclusions: Body mass index, age, race, and bra cup sizes significantly impact BREAST-Q scores in our population. Determining normative BREAST-Q scores in female populations could represent important baselines for breast outcomes research.

Level of Evidence: 2.