BIGGER IS NOT ALWAYS BETTER - BODY-IMAGE DISSATISFACTION IN BREAST REDUCTION AND BREAST AUGMENTATION PATIENTS

This study investigated body image dissatisfaction in breast reduction and breast augmentation patients. Thirty breast reduction and 30 brea st augmentation patients completed two body image measures preoperativ ely. Breast reduction patients reported greater dissatisfaction with t heir overall body image as compared with breast augmentation patients, part of which can be understood as a function of their increased body weight. When asked specifically about their breasts, reduction patien ts displayed increased body image dysphoria and maladaptive behavioral change, including embarrassment about their breasts in public areas a nd social settings and avoidance of physical activity. Results are dis cussed in the context of ideal body weight cutoffs by third-party paye rs for reimbursement for breast reduction. Recommendations for reimbur sement criteria that de-emphasize the role of body weight are made.