Evaluation of Patient Satisfaction and Quality of Life Using the BREAST-Q Questionnaire in Oncoplastic Breast-Conserving Surgery Techniques for Centrally Located Breast Cancer.

Abstract

Introduction: This study aimed to retrospectively compare the impact of level-2 oncoplastic techniques - doughnut, lateral, vertical, and racket mastopexy - on patient satisfaction and quality of life in centrally located breast cancer surgery, using the BREAST-Q questionnaire.

Methods: This study included patients aged 18-65 who underwent oncoplastic surgery for centrally located breast tumors at a teaching hospital between January 2021 and August 2024. The BREAST-Q questionnaire, which assesses satisfaction with the breast, psychosocial well-being, and sexual health, was administered at least 3 months post-surgery and radiotherapy. Demographic and clinical data were collected from the patient records.

Results: Among the 142 patients included in the study, 90 underwent doughnut mastopexy, while 52 received other techniques. The BREAST-Q scores indicated higher satisfaction with breasts (92.28%), psychosocial well-being (87.41%), and sexual well-being (86.39%) in the doughnut mastopexy group compared to the other techniques (p < 0.001).

Conclusions: Doughnut mastopexy yielded better outcomes than other techniques, likely because of minimal scarring, reduced need for contralateral procedures, and improved aesthetic results. These findings suggest that this technique offers superior patient satisfaction for centrally located breast tumors.