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Patient Satisfaction Following Female to Male Breast Surgery
James Gatherwright, MD
Tobias Long, MD
Daniel Medalie, MD
University Hospitals Case Medical Center
2013-03-15
Presenter: James Gatherwright
Affidavit:
This has never been presented before.
Director Name: Hooman Soltanian
Author Category: Resident Plastic Surgery
Presentation Category: Clinical
Abstract Category: Breast (Aesthetic and Recon.)
Background: Surgical options have become an accepted adjunct in the treatment of gender dysphoria. However, there is a dearth of research regarding patient outcomes and satisfaction following different procedures. Most of the available literature is relegated to foreign studies and focuses mainly on the technical aspects.
Methods: This was a retrospective review of a single surgeon's experience from 2006 – 2011. 362 patients were included in the study. These patients were females who self identified as males and underwent bilateral mastectomy either through a traditional or peri-areolar incsion, chest and axillary liposuction, with and without nipple grafting. In addition, a prospective survey using a Likert type scale was sent to each patient using available email/courier mail addresses after verification and consent. Demographic, satisfaction, and complication data were recorded and analyzed. Appropriate statistical analysis was used to assess for independent predictors of satisfaction.
Results: Currently, we have received a 75% response rate from survey sent thus far. Preliminary data demonstrate a high level of satisfaction. Areas of highest satisfaction include "overall satisfaction" and "how the patient feels in clothes". Areas of lowest satisfaction include "scarring" and "nipple sensation".
Conclusions: Preliminary analysis demonstrates a high level of satisfaction following female-to-male transgender breast surgery. Areas of lowest satisfaction are typical for other types of breast surgery including scarring and decreased nipple sensitivity. Further areas of study will include patient attitudes towards genital surgery and factors affecting their decision.
