Evaluation of aesthetic results of microsurgical breast reconstruction with DIEP flap (literature review)

Purpose of a study: to explore the main methods of evaluating the aesthetic results of autologous breast reconstruction with a DIEP flap (deep inferior epigastric artery perforator), to identify the key factors influencing the aesthetic result of breast reconstruction.

The scientific papers in the databases PubMed, Google Scholar, SCOPUS, Science Direct, RSCI for the period from 2013 to 2023 were analyzed. The systematic review includes articles evaluating the aesthetic result of breast reconstruction with a DIEP flap. The search was carried out by keywords: “breast”, “DIEP flap”, “aesthetic result”, “symmetry of breast”.

As a result of the analysis, it was found that the evaluation of the aesthetic results of breast reconstruction is carried out using data of patient reported outcome measures, scales which is used to rate the surgeon’s perception of the aesthetic outcomes and quantitative objective measurements. The key factor influencing the aesthetic result of reconstruction is the symmetry of the breasts.

Conclusion. The most commonly used methods for assessing the aesthetic results of breast reconstruction with a DIEP flap are: self-assessment of the results of reconstruction by patients (BREAST-Q questionnaire), evaluation of the results by surgeons (professional aesthetic assessment scales), quantitative objective methods for determining the degree of symmetry. According to many studies, symmetry is a critical factor affecting the aesthetics of the breasts and, consequently, patient satisfaction with the results of reconstruction, psychosocial well-being and quality of life in the long term.

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