Sexual function following reduction mammoplasty: a systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION: Reduction mammoplasty (RM) ranks as one of the most prevalent aesthetic surgical interventions globally. Since breasts are widely associated with femininity and sexual identity, many patients pursue RM with the expectation of enhancing their sexual life. OBJECTIVES: This study aims to examine the impact of RM on postoperative sexual function. METHODS: A comprehensive search was performed in electronic databases to identify articles published up to April 15, 2025. Following the removal of duplicates, 441 articles were identified to be in line with the objectives of this study. A meta-analysis was used to derive weighted pooled estimates of sexual function after RM using a random-effects model. RESULTS: After the use of eligibility criteria and exclusion of irrelevant studies, 13 articles comprising 676 participants were included in the final analysis. Nine of the included studies demonstrated a significant improvement in sexual function following RM, while 4 reported no significant changes in that regard. A meta-analysis of 8 studies that have been utilizing standardized instruments demonstrated that RM was associated with 13.27% increase in the mean score of sexual function. CONCLUSION: The findings of this systematic review revealed that female sexual function improves following RM. However, given the outlined limitations, further rigorous research is needed to confirm these results.