Impact of reduction mammaplasty on sexuality in patients with macromastia and their partners.

AIM OF STUDY: Women with breast hypertrophy often experience a number of physical symptoms and psychological difficulties. The breasts are very important for the psychological well-being of women, which might be affected negatively because of breast size and shape distortions. Self-body dissatisfaction and, in this background, the breasts can lead to low levels of self-confidence and self-esteem, which might affect sexuality.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-five women with macromastia and their partners were evaluated for their sexual function and surgery satisfaction before and 6 months following reduction mammaplasty. Physical status and sexual satisfaction were assessed using a questionnaire. In addition, the sexual function of the women and their partners was evaluated using the Index of Female Sexual Function (IFSF) and the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF).

RESULT: There was a significant improvement in the mean IFSF and IIEF scores after surgery in both patients and their partners. In addition, patients expressed high levels of satisfaction with the results of surgery in terms of physical and psychological scores.

CONCLUSION: Reduction breast surgery has a positive impact on the health status and psychological function as well as on the sexual activity of patients and their partners.