Breast Asymmetry Evaluation Using Objective Measures after Breast Cancer Surgery

Abstract

Although a positive cosmetic outcome is an important goal of breast cancer reconstruction, the objective analysis of breast aesthetics has yet to reach a gold standard or unified method to quantify breast symmetry. Several scoring systems, both subjective and objective, have been developed over the years to ensure the desirable outcome in breast symmetry, but these methods have yet to reach the unanimous acceptance in terms of accuracy, value and ease of use to be implemented in the clinical setting. By assessing several existing symmetry scores, most of which are based on 2D imaging, along with our own set of symmetry parameters applied to 3D patient images, the goal of this study is to determine if there is an advantage of 3D imaging in formulating an accurate objective breast aesthetic score over the existing objective scores. A reliable breast aesthetic score would improve the decision-making in surgery as well as improve patient satisfaction. Additionally, knowing the quantity and degree of breast asymmetry objectively will improve outcome and reduce revision rates, minimizing patient suffering and improving the overall quality of patient life and body image.