Cosmetic sequelae after oncoplastic breast surgery: long-term results of a prospective study

Background To analyze risk factors for the cosmetic sequelae of patients treated with oncoplastic procedures and their impact on patient-reported satisfaction. Methods Prospective nonrandomized study between 2003 and 2020. Complications and cosmetic sequelae were reported by the surgeon. We employed the Clough classification for oncoplastic procedures (Level 1 and Level 2) and to define the cosmetic sequelae (Type I, Type II and Type III). The assessment of satisfaction and quality of life was performed with the BreastQ((TM)) questionnaire. Results 429 level 1 and 326 level 2 oncoplastic operations were included. We recorded 89 cosmetic sequelae: 55 deformities (type II), 29 asymmetries (type I), and 5 type III defects. The incidence of cosmetic sequelae at 10 years for levels 1 and 2 oncoplastic procedures was 11.5% and 20.0%, respectively. The level 2 techniques and the postoperative complications increased the risk of cosmetic sequelae. Patients with cosmetic sequelae did not achieve significant improvements in breast satisfaction. Conclusions Cosmetic sequelae affect up to 17% of oncoplastic procedures. Most of them appear during the first 5 years. Cosmetic sequelae and their predisposing factors should be part of the shared decision-making process with patients, as well as part of the training programs for breast surgeons.