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Background: Assessment of breast volume has a relevance for aesthetic surgery and for the prevention and prediction of breast diseases. This study investigated breast volume measurements using a three-dimensional (3D) body surface scanner integrated in a smartphone device in comparison with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. Methods: Breast volume was assessed for 22 women who underwent routine MRI imaging. 3D surface images were acquired using a smartphone's digital texture camera (iPhone 11 Pro Max, Apple, California, USA, 2019). Breast volumes were manually outlined and calculated by two independent investigators using a 3D software tool (Meshmixer 3.5, Autodesk, Inc., 2018). Volume assessments from MRI images were performed by a radiologist using Syngo.via (Siemens Healthcare, Erlangen, Germany, VB50). The agreement between both methods and the inter-observer agreement was calculated with the concordance correlation coefficients and analysed with Bland–Altman plots. Results: The mean breast volume as determined by MRI volumetry was 771.0 ml on the left side and 763.9 ml on the right side. Utilizing the 3D body surface volume assessment method, the mean breast volume was measured as 660.3 ml (observer A) and 616.8 ml (observer B) on the left side, and 701.9 ml (observer A) and 638.6 ml (observer B) on the right side. Although a high correlation was observed, differences in volume measurements appeared more pronounced in cases of larger breast volume. Conclusions: Smartphone-based 3D assessment of breast volume sufficiently agreed with MRI-based breast volume. This new technique could be used for cosmetic breast assessments in a surgical context and possibly in breast cancer risk studies assessing breast volume as outcome parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Featured Application: This self-measurement method for breast volume allows women to conveniently assess their body dimensions, promoting personal health management and improving body image. It aids lingerie manufacturers in designing better-fitting bras by providing accurate volume data, fostering comfort and support. Additionally, it can contribute to future research on body composition and psychological well-being, enhancing understanding of the relationship between physical measurements and women's health. Breast volume is crucial for ensuring proper bra fit and comfort, significantly influencing women's physiological and psychological well-being. This study aims to develop a novel method for breast-volume self-measurement, allowing women to accurately assess their breast volume without specialized equipment. We employed a geometric approximation of the breast as a combination of a partial elliptical cone and an irregular partial ellipsoid, leading to the formulation of a new volume equation. The method was validated against established standards, including the specimen drainage method and 3D scanning techniques. The findings revealed that our self-measurement approach achieved a relative error of only 3.8%, outperforming the 4.8% of 3D scanning and the 86.3% associated with traditional breast-volume equations. This innovative self-measurement technique enhances accuracy and serves as a practical solution for health and nutritional assessments, alongside body image evaluations. Its user-friendly nature positions it as a valuable tool for women's health, particularly in personal fitness and ergonomic design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This cross-sectional observational study aimed to correlate preoperative breast volume with mastectomy specimen volume to predict residual breast tissue and cancer recurrence. Fifty female patients with unilateral breast carcinoma undergoing mastectomy were included. Preoperative volume was measured anthropometrically using a specific formula, while postoperative volume was assessed by water displacement (Archimedes principle). Volumes ranged from 220 cc to 820 cc, with postoperative measurements being more accurate. A significant correlation was found between the two methods (p

Background: Maternal breast volume is determined by the quantity of glandular and adipose tissue, and it undergoes significant changes during pregnancy. These changes are intricately linked to the development of glandular tissue, which most likely reflects lactation capacity. Evidence indicates that women with overweight or obesity exhibit larger breast volume compared to those with a normal body mass index (BMI), emphasizing the close relationship between breast volume and maternal adiposity. Hence, we aim to investigate breast volume growth and maternal BMI as potential risk factors for low milk production. Methods: Lactating women (n = 609) from the Perth metropolitan area in Western Australia between 2011 and 2023 were included in the analysis. Twenty-four-hour milk production measurements were conducted using the test weighing method, and milk removal frequencies were recorded. Mothers completed questionnaires regarding demographic, obstetric and infant details. Linear and logistic regression models were used to determine maternal and infant factors associated with milk production. Results: Here we show that increasing maternal age and BMI are associated with low milk production. Moreover, larger pre-pregnancy breast volume and breast growth are associated with both higher BMI and milk production. Conclusions: Women who are older, have an obese BMI and who have minimal pre-pregnancy breast volume and breast growth should be provided with antenatal screening and breastfeeding support as they are more likely to experience low milk production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Breast volume is crucial for ensuring proper bra fit and comfort, significantly influencing women’s physiological and psychological well-being. This study aims to develop a novel method for breast-volume self-measurement, allowing women to accurately assess their breast volume without specialized equipment. We employed a geometric approximation of the breast as a combination of a partial elliptical cone and an irregular partial ellipsoid, leading to the formulation of a new volume equation. The method was validated against established standards, including the specimen drainage method and 3D scanning techniques. The findings revealed that our self-measurement approach achieved a relative error of only 3.8%, outperforming the 4.8% of 3D scanning and the 86.3% associated with traditional breast-volume equations. This innovative self-measurement technique enhances accuracy and serves as a practical solution for health and nutritional assessments, alongside body image evaluations. Its user-friendly nature positions it as a valuable tool for women’s health, particularly in personal fitness and ergonomic design.

(1) Background: Three-dimensional (3D) volumetric assessment is receiving increased recognition in breast surgery. It is commonly used for preoperative planning and postoperative control with the patient standing in an upright position. Recently, intraoperative use was evaluated with patients in the supine position. The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the volumetric changes in 3D surface imaging depending on the patient's position. (2) Methods: 3D volumetric analysis was performed using a Vectra-H2 device with patients in standing, sitting, and supine positions. A total of 100 complete datasets of female breasts were included in the study. The measured volumes of each evaluated breast (n = 200) were compared between the three positions. (3) Results: The mean difference between the 3D volumetric assessments of the sitting and standing positions per breast was 7.15 cc and, thus, statistically insignificant (p = 0.28). However, the difference between supine and standing positions, at 120.31 cc, was significant (p < 0.01). (4) Conclusions: The 3D volumetric assessment of breasts in the supine position did not statistically correlate with the validated assessment of breast volume in the standing position while breast volume in the sitting position is reliable and correlates with the assessment of a standing patient. We conclude that intraoperative volumetric assessment should be performed with patients in an upright sitting position. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Feminizing gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) for transgender individuals traditionally includes estradiol and androgen deprivation. Research has demonstrated that breast size as a result of GAHT in transgender women is often limited. Therefore, transgender women often choose to undergo breast augmentation surgery. Progesterone is important for breast development in cisgender women during puberty. A potential role for progesterone in breast development in transgender women has not been investigated in a randomized controlled experimental set-up. The primary objective of this study is to explore the effects on breast volume of addition of oral progesterone to GAHT with estradiol in transgender women after vaginoplasty or orchiectomy. Secondary objectives include assessment of safety, satisfaction, mood, sleep and sexual pleasure. Methods: This is a non-blinded, non-placebo, randomized controlled trial using a factorial design in adult transgender individuals assigned male sex at birth who have undergone GAHT for at least one year and underwent vaginoplasty or orchiectomy. The study design allows for rapid assessment of potential synergistic effects of various dose combinations of estradiol and progesterone on breast volume change: Ninety participants will be randomized into six groups of 15 subjects each, receiving either the baseline dose of estradiol, the baseline dose of estradiol and progesterone 200 mg daily, the baseline dose of estradiol and progesterone 400 mg daily, twice the baseline dose of estradiol, twice the baseline dose of estradiol and progesterone 200 mg daily or twice the baseline dose of estradiol and progesterone 400 mg daily, all for a duration of 12 months. The main study parameters include changes in breast volume as determined by 3D measurements. Participants will be followed-up with laboratory testing including serum progesterone concentrations as well as surveys for satisfaction, mood, sleep quality and sexual pleasure. Discussion: This study will indicate whether progesterone is safe and of additional value with regard to breast volume change in transgender individuals receiving feminizing GAHT. The results of this study will be useful for innovation of feminizing GAHT. Trial registration: WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform: EUCTR2020-001952-16-NL; date of registration: 12 December 2020 https://trialsearch.who.int/Trial2.aspx?TrialID=EUCTR2020-001952-16-NL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Breast anthropometry research, evaluating the correlation between various breast anthropometric values with each other, is of great importance to the field of cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. The research aims to describe the anthropometric features of the breasts of young Vietnamese women and compare them with other women's groups worldwide. Methods: The study was conducted on 128 nulliparous Vietnamese women, aged 18–25, with body mass index within the range of 18.5–25 kg/m2. Nineteen research indexes were divided into 3 groups: group 1 (general anthropometric indexes—3 indexes), group 2 (indexes related to the chest and breast—7 indexes), and group 3 (purely breast indexes—9 indexes). The breast volume was calculated according to the formula of author Qiao1: V = 3.14/3 * MP2 * (LR + MR + IR − MP) (ml). Results: The mean age was 18.6 ± 6, and the mean BMI was 21 ± 1.6 kg/m2. The mean breast volumes on the right and left were 437.1 ± 266.8 ml and 457 ± 259.7 ml, respectively. The left breast volume was significantly larger than the right. The mean areola diameter was 3.4 ± 0.6 cm. There was a strong correlation (r > 0.5) between breast volume and 8 indexes: breast projection, medial mammary radius, nipple-inframammary fold length, lateral mammary radius, right suprasternal notch-to-nipple distance, chest circumference through the nipple, breast base width, and mid-clavicular point-to-nipple distance. There was no correlation between height and breast volume. Conclusions: This study contributes valuable data to the breast anthropometry database of young, nulliparous Vietnamese women, which could be effectively applied in cosmetic and reconstructive breast surgery in addition to existing literature. Level of Evidence: Level III, Diagnostic; Risk/Prognostic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study's goal was to assess how the volume of the target breast affected how much dispersed radiation was delivered to the contralateral breat following treatment for primary breast cancer. Fifteen females have been involved in this study, they were diagnosed as having unilateral breast cancer and underwent unilateral breast lumpectomy or mastectomy. The patient’s age range (40-60) years and their mean target breast volume was (1318.5 ± 553.9) cc. breasts imaged with CT scan to produce an image that imported to the radiotherapy planning system. The three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy planning technique (3DCRT) was used for generating of therapeutic plan, where he contoured regions included the target breast, and the contralateral breast. The dose delivered was 50 or 40.05 Gy which were fractionated according to the treatment protocol of each case. The target beast volume measurement was obtained by the CT image and the mean, maximum and minimum doses of the contralateral breast were determined by the generated treatment plan. The scattered dose measurements that included the mean, maximum and minimum doses of radiation therapy to the contralateral breast pointed to a non-significant correlation between these measurements and the volume of the target breast (P= 0.56, 0.33, 0.47 respectively). As the breast volume increase, there is a linear negative non-significant decrease in the amount of the mean dose, maximum dose and the minimum dose that reaching the contralateral breast. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Breast size alteration is the most common aesthetic surgical procedure worldwide. This study aimed to assess the correlation between breast volume and BMI or age. Materials and methods: The analyses were conducted utilizing 400 patients selected by a retrospective review of the archives at our institution. Epidemiological data and medical history were assessed. Adjusting for the age and BMI of patient from previously described cohorts, we calculated mean breast volumes per side and differences from the upper and lower percentiles to the mean volumes. Results: The patients had a median BMI of 23.5 (range: 14.7–45.6) and a median age of 51 (range: 24–82). The average total breast volume increased strongly with BMI (r=0.834, p<0.01) and moderately with age (r=0.305, p<0.01). Within a BMI range of 18–24, breast volumes in the 8th and 18th percentile differ on average by about 50 ml. One BMI unit increase in women with breast sizes in the 10th percentile accounts for a breast volume difference of about 30 ml. Conclusion: BMI strongly correlates with breast size. To achieve natural results, preoperative consultation and planning of aesthetic and reconstructive breast surgery must recognize BMI as a major determinant of average breast size. Level of Evidence IV: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methods for assessing three-dimensional (3D) breast volume are becoming increasingly popular in breast surgery. However, the precision of intraoperative volumetric assessment is still unclear. Until now, only non-validated scanning systems have been used for intraoperative volumetric analyses. This study aimed to assess the feasibility, handling, and accuracy of a commercially available, validated, and portable device for intraoperative 3D volumetric evaluation. All patients who underwent breast surgery from 2020 to 2022 were identified from our institutional database. Intraoperative 3D volumetric assessments of 103 patients were included in this study. Standardized 3D volumetric measurements were obtained 3 months postoperatively to compare the intraoperatively generated volumetric assessment. All of the study participants were women with a mean age of 48.3 ± 14.7 years (range: 20–89). The mean time for intraoperative volumetric assessment was 8.7 ± 2.6 min. The postoperative 3D volumetric assessment, with a mean volume of 507.11 ± 206.29 cc, showed no significant difference from the intraoperative volumetric measurements of 504.24 ± 276.61 cc (p = 0.68). The mean absolute volume difference between the intraoperative simulations and postoperative results was 27.1 cc. Intraoperative 3D volumetric assessment using the VECTRA H2 imaging system seems to be a feasible, reliable, and accurate method for measuring breast volume. Based on this finding, we plan to investigate whether volumetric objective evaluations will help to improve breast symmetry in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background This study aimed to assess whether the reconstructed breast volume changed postoperatively following a deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap. Methods Patients were included if they had undergone unilateral breast reconstruction with a DIEP flap at the two selected centers between April 2017 and September 2019. Serial 3-D surface imaging of both breasts was taken at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. The primary outcome was a volume ratio of the reconstructed to the contralateral breast. A linear mixed-effect model was used to evaluate whether the DIEP flap volume changed according to the postoperative time. Results A total of 74 patients were included in the analysis. The mean volume ratio of the reconstructed side compared with the contralateral breast at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively were 106.9%, 105.9%, 108.7%, and 107.6%, respectively. In the linear mixed effect model, the volume ratio of the reconstructed breast did not change over time for immediate reconstructions (p = 0.376). However, there was an increase over time in delayed reconstructions (p = 0.043). Adjuvant radiation, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy did not influence the volume ratio of the reconstruced breast. Correlation analysis using repeatedly measured values showed that both reconstruced and healthy breast volumes had positive correlation with the patient's body weight (p < 0.001). On the other hand, volume ratio of the breasts was not influenced by the patient's body weight (p = 0.493). The volume ratio of the reconstructed breast significantly decreased in the upper inner (p = 0.003) and the upper outer (p = 0.006) quadrants, while increasing in the lower outer (p = 0.002) quadrant throughout the first-year postoperative period. Conclusion The volume ratio of the reconstructed to the contralateral breast does not decrease postoperatively following DIEP flap breast reconstruction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Breast lymphedema after breast cancer is challenging to quantify. Three-dimensional (3D) surface imaging is one available technique to measure breast volume, however, the measurement properties of available software programs have not been fully determined. The aim of this study was to determine equivalency of measurements with two software programs as well as reliability, standard error of measurement (SEM), and smallest detectable change (SDC). Methods and Results: Retrospective three-dimensional surface imaging (3D-SI) of 100 breasts taken before or after breast conserving surgery for breast cancer were retrieved for reliability analysis. Three assessors followed a standardized measurement technique using two software programs, Vectra® 3D Analysis Module (VAM) and Breast Sculptor®. Mean breast volume was 489.9 ± 206 cc using VAM and 480.1 ± 229.1 cc using Breast Sculptor. Lin's concordance showed poor agreement between programs (0.81–0.88). Measurements using VAM had excellent intra- and inter-rater reliability with SEM = 4.1% for one assessor and 8.7% for multiple assessors. Breast Sculptor also had excellent intra-rater and substantial inter-rater reliability but the SEM was much larger at 14.5% (intra-rater) and 19.1% (inter-rater). The SDC value was lowest for VAM and a single rater with 56 cc indicating a meaningful change beyond measurement error. Conclusion: Breast volume measurements captured with 3D-SI using VECTRA-XT are highly reliable, but the volumes, SEM, and SDC varied between the two software programs. Measurement error was lowest with VAM software. Although the usefulness of VECTRA-XT and VAM software to detect change in breast volume is promising, further solutions to reduce measurement error are required to improve clinical utility to measure breast lymphedema. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A lying prone position is recommended when scanning women's breasts to ensure the entire breast can be visualised. However, several large databases contain three-dimensional scans of women's breasts and torsos that were obtained while the women were standing. This study aimed to establish the error associated with calculating breast volume from three-dimensional breast scans taken when women were standing relative to lying prone. Breast volume was derived for 378 women with Small, Medium, Large and Hypertrophic breast sizes from scans taken while the women were standing and then lying prone. The magnitude of error associated with breast volume derived from scans obtained while women stood compared to lying prone, ranged from ∼8–22% and increased with increasing breast size. Errors associated with breast volume data derived from breast scans collected while women stand must be accounted for, particularly for women with Medium, Large and Hypertrophic breast sizes. Practitioner summary: This original research provides evidence for bra designers and manufacturers on the degree of error associated when using breast scans obtained while women were standing, such as those scans readily available in large scanning databases. These errors increase with increasing breast size and must be accounted for when sizing and designing bra cups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a lack of an accurate standardised objective method to assess aesthetic outcome after breast surgery. In this methodological study, we investigated the intra- and inter-observer reproducibility of breast symmetry and volume assessed using three-dimensional surface imaging (3D-SI), evaluated the reproducibility depending on imaging posture, and proposed a new combined volume-shape-symmetry ( VSS) parameter. Images were acquired using the VECTRA XT 3D imaging system, and analysed by two observers using VECTRA Analysis Module. Breast symmetry was measured through the root mean square distance. All women had undergone bilateral risk-reducing mastectomy and immediate breast reconstruction. The reproducibility and correlations of breast symmetry and volume measurements were compared using Bland–Altman's plots and tested with Spearman's rank correlation coefficient. 3D surface images of 58 women were analysed (348 symmetry measurements, 696 volume measurements). The intra-observer reproducibility of breast symmetry measurements was substantial–excellent, the inter-observer reproducibility was substantial, and the inter-posture reproducibility was substantial. For measurements of breast volumes, the intra-observer reproducibility was excellent, the inter-observer reproducibility was moderate–substantial, and the inter-posture reproducibility was substantial–excellent. The intra-observer reproducibility of VSS was excellent while the inter-observer reproducibility was substantial for both observers, independent of posture. There were no statistically strong correlations between breast symmetry and volume differences. The intra-observer reproducibility was found to be substantial–excellent for several 3D-SI measurements independent of imaging posture. However, the inter-observer reproducibility was lower than the intra-observer reproducibility, indicating that 3D-SI in its present form is not a great assessment for symmetry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manufacturing a customized mastectomy bra, using medical images obtained for breast cancer treatment, could be suggested as an alternative instead of the anthropometric method. However, the breast shape of a medical image is deformed from the anthropometric method as the measurement posture is different between the anthropometric method for making clothes and the medical image. As a breast consists of adipose tissues and a few muscles without bones, there is a possibility that a bra can be manufactured if the volume is constant. Therefore, a hypothesis was established that the volume of the breast would be constant, even if the measurement methods were different. As a result of the comparison of 3D-SIM and PPM by MRI, 18 items could be measured simultaneously. Nine items showed differences according to the measurement method. The next step in the case of 3D-SIM was calculating the volume by separating the breast shape into a cone and a hemispherical shape; in the case of MRI, an ellipsoidal volume formula was applied. A t-test was performed on the results obtained, showing no significant difference. Therefore, it was proven that the volume of the breast does not change despite the difference in the measurement and the measurement method.

Low milk production poses a substantial challenge to exclusive and continued breastfeeding, which affects 10–15% of lactating mothers [...]

A female breast can be a potential source of musculoskeletal problems, especially if it is disproportionately large. The purpose of the present study was to examine the effect of artificially induced breast volume on the EMG activity of neck and trunk musculature during common everyday movements. The EMG activity of the sternocleidomastoid (SCM), the upper trapezius (UT), and the thoracic and lumbar erector spinae (TES, LES) were recorded during 45° trunk inclination from the upright standing and sitting postures (TIST45°, TISI45°) as well as during stand-to-sit and sit-to-stand (STSI, SIST) in 24 healthy females with minimal and ideal breast volume (M-NBV, I-NBV). All movements were performed before and after increasing M-NBV and I-NBV by 1.5-, 3.0-, 4.5-, and 6-times using silicone-gel implants. Significantly higher EMG activity for TES and LES were found at 6.0- and ≥4.5-times increase the I-NBV, respectively, compared to smaller breast volumes during TIST45°. EMG activity of UT was higher, and TES was lower in M-NBV females compared to I-NBV females in all movements but were significantly different only during SIST. The female breast can affect the activity of neck and trunk muscles only when its volume increases above a certain limit, potentially contributing to muscle dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthropometric breast measurements are essential in planning and manipulating reconstructive surgeries of the breast. The current study was aimed to perform anthropometric breast measurements and to assess the brassiere wearing practices of women. Hundred and one women with no known breast morbidities were enrolled by non-proportionate quota sampling after obtaining a written informed consent. Data were collected using an instrument consisting of demographic, clinical, reproductive profile, anthropometric breast measurements record sheet, and questionnaire related to brassiere wearing practices and selection. The average values for age, age at menarche, menopausal age, and BMI were 38 ± 11.04 years, 14.43 ± 1.45 years, 45.16 ± 4.73 years, and 25 ± 4.58 kg/m2, respectively. The median difference in the right and left breast volume was not significant (p = 0.13). Most of the breast measurements of right and left breast were similar except the mean sternal notch length (SNL) [p = 0.01, CI (0.074–0.487)] and mean lateral mammary radius LR [p = 0.04 CI (0.006–0.300)]. Ninety-six (95%) were currently wearing brasseries and 77 (76.2%) had awareness about their size. The results will be valuable to set a reference of breast measurements for Indian women and compare them with other nationalities. The findings will help in planning breast reconstruction surgeries or designing accessories/clothing for females after mastectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The female breast comes in many different shapes and sizes. The literature remains inconclusive on the ideal breast size. This study aims to investigate and compare breast size preferences among three cohorts (patients, plastic surgeons, and laypeople) to provide a better understanding of Western European ideals. Patients, plastic surgeons, and laypeople were interviewed using a survey containing three-dimensional simulations of nine females, each depicted using five simulations with increasing breast size (1 = natural breast without breast implants, 2 = moderate, 3 = moderate plus, 4 = high, and 5 = ultra-high). Linear regression models were performed to define statistically significant associations between preferred breast size and predictor variables. In total, 28 patients, 45 plastic surgeons, and 100 laypeople (50 males and 50 females) participated in this study. On average, patients (3.5 ± 0.7) preferred larger breast sizes compared to surgeons (3.0 ± 0.7) and laypeople (3.1 ± 0.8). The difference between patients and surgeons was statistically significant. Overall, males preferred larger breast sizes than women. Patients of older age and with a higher BMI preferred larger breast sizes, while higher educational level was significantly associated with smaller breast size preference. Female plastic surgeons would undergo breast augmentation, while male plastic surgeons and female lay participants seem more skeptical. Significant preferential differences exist between patients and surgeons. It is important for professionals to be aware of societal ideals and preferential differences to adequately consult patients and achieve more satisfactory results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manufacturing a customized mastectomy bra, using medical images obtained for breast cancer treatment, could be suggested as an alternative instead of the anthropometric method. However, the breast shape of a medical image is deformed from the anthropometric method as the measurement posture is different between the anthropometric method for making clothes and the medical image. As a breast consists of adipose tissues and a few muscles without bones, there is a possibility that a bra can be manufactured if the volume is constant. Therefore, a hypothesis was established that the volume of the breast would be constant, even if the measurement methods were different. As a result of the comparison of 3D-SIM and PPM by MRI, 18 items could be measured simultaneously. Nine items showed differences according to the measurement method. The next step in the case of 3D-SIM was calculating the volume by separating the breast shape into a cone and a hemispherical shape; in the case of MRI, an ellipsoidal volume formula was applied. A t-test was performed on the results obtained, showing no significant difference. Therefore, it was proven that the volume of the breast does not change despite the difference in the measurement and the measurement method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective:The purpose of this study was to look into the relationship between breast size and mammographic breast density in women and breast radiation dose on full-field digital mammography (FFDM), as well as the factors that influence radiation dose.Materials and Methods:The study included a total of 2,060 FFDM images from 515 consecutive participants. The participants were divided into two groups: those exposed to high doses (>3 mGy) and those exposed to low doses (

Introduction: The most common adverse effect in postoperative breast radiation therapy, following breast conserving surgery, is acute radiodermatitis, that can cause pauses during RT and affect patients quality of life. There is no adequate prevention for acute radiodermatitis and an individual approach is important in patient’s treatment. The Aim: Aim of this study is evaluation of factors that may influence the acute radiodermatitis onset during and 90 days after breast cancer postoperative irradiation. Material-Methods: In the Center for Radiation Oncology, University Clinical Center Kragujevac, during 2023, the retrospective analysis included 102 female breast cancer patients, treated with postoperative breast irradiation. The data was obtained form medical medical histories. Results: All patients underwent breast conserving surgery with sentinel lymph node biopsy (37.5%) or axillary dissection (62.5%). Moderately hypofractionated regime received 30.6% patient, versus the conventional regimen (69.4%), and 34.7% had a boost, while in 21.2% of cases lymph nodal irradiation was also performed. Acute radiodermatitis was registered in 72.6% cases (62.3% grade 1, 31.9% grade 2 and 5.8% grade 3). The primary tumor characteristics, patient’s habits and systemic therapy had no statistically significant influence on the appearance of acute radiodermatitis. In patients whose skin thickness, before starting radiotherapy, was greater than 4 mm (p=0.0001) or breast volume larger than 1000 cm3 (p=0.038), acute radiodermatitis was registered significantly more often. Conclusion: This results can single out patients at increased risk for the acute radiodermatitis development and help selecting those patients in whom intensified monitoring is necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: In trans women, hormone treatment induces feminization; however, the degree of feminization varies from person to person. A possible contributing factor could be estrone, a weak estrogen that interferes with the estrogen receptor. Objective: We assessed whether estrone is involved in feminization induced by hormone treatment. Methods: This prospective cohort study, with follow-up of 1 year, included 212 adult trans women at a gender identity clinic, who were starting gender-affirming hormone treatment between July 2017 and December 2019, median age 25 years. Change in fat percentage and breast development were assessed. Results: After 12 months of hormone treatment, estrone concentration was 187 pmol/L (95% CI, 153-220) in transdermal and 1516 pmol/L (95% CI, 1284-1748) in oral estradiol users. Fat percentage increased by 1.2% (interquartile range [IQR], 0.3-4.8) in transdermal and 4.6% (IQR, 2.5-5.9) in oral estradiol users. This was not associated with estrone concentrations in transdermal (+4.4% (95% CI, −4.0 to 13) per 100 pmol/L increase in estrone concentration) nor in oral estradiol users (−0.7% [95% CI, −1.7 to 0.3]). Breast volume increased by 69 mL (IQR, 58-134) in transdermal and 62 mL (IQR, 32-95) in oraestradiol users. This was not associated with estrone concentrations in transdermal (+14% [95% CI, −49 to 156] per 100 pmol/L increase in estrone concentration) nor oral estradiol users (+11% [95% CI −14 to 43]). Conclusions: Change in fat percentage and breast development in trans women were not associated with estrone concentrations nor with administration route. Therefore, measurement of estrone concentrations does not have a place in the monitoring of feminization in trans women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Whether breast volume is a risk factor for breast cancer is controversial. This study aimed to evaluate whether a significant association between breast volume and risk of breast cancer, based on linear measurements, was present by applying propensity score matching (PSM). Methods The study was designed as a hospital-based case-control study. Between March 2018 and May 2019, 208 cases and 340 controls were retrospectively reviewed. Information on menarche, smoking, feeding mode, oral contraceptives, reproductive history and family history was obtained through a structured questionnaire. Breast volume was calculated using a formula based on linear measurements of breast parameters. Cox regression and PSM were used to estimate odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals for breast cancer using risk factors adjusted for potential confounders. Results There was a significant difference in breast volume between the two groups before propensity score matching (P = 0.014). Binary logistic regression showed that the risk of breast cancer was slightly higher in the case group with larger breast volumes than in the control group(P = 0.009, OR = 1.002, 95%CI:1.000 ~ 1.003). However, there was no significant statistical difference between the two groups using an independent sample Mann-Whitney U test (P = 0.438) or conditional logistic regression (P = 0.446). Conclusions After PSM for potential confounding factors, there is no significant difference in breast volume estimated by BREAST-V formula between the case group and the control group. The risk of breast cancer may not be related to breast volume in Chinese women.

Introduction: Breast volume estimation is considered crucial for breast cancer surgery planning. A single, easy, and reproducible method to estimate breast volume is not available. This study aims to evaluate, in patients proposed for mastectomy, the accuracy of the calculation of breast volume from a low-cost 3D surface scan (Microsoft Kinect) compared to the breast MRI and water displacement technique. Material and Methods: Patients with a Tis/T1–T3 breast cancer proposed for mastectomy between July 2015 and March 2017 were assessed for inclusion in the study. Breast volume calculations were performed using a 3D surface scan and the breast MRI and water displacement technique. Agreement between volumes obtained with both methods was assessed with the Spearman and Pearson correlation coefficients. Results: Eighteen patients with invasive breast cancer were included in the study and submitted to mastectomy. The level of agreement of the 3D breast volume compared to surgical specimens and breast MRI volumes was evaluated. For mastectomy specimen volume, an average (standard deviation) of 0.823 (0.027) and 0.875 (0.026) was obtained for the Pearson and Spearman correlations, respectively. With respect to MRI annotation, we obtained 0.828 (0.038) and 0.715 (0.018). Discussion: Although values obtained by both methodologies still differ, the strong linear correlation coefficient suggests that 3D breast volume measurement using a low-cost surface scan device is feasible and can approximate both the MRI breast volume and mastectomy specimen with sufficient accuracy. Conclusion: 3D breast volume measurement using a depth-sensor low-cost surface scan device is feasible and can parallel MRI breast and mastectomy specimen volumes with enough accuracy. Differences between methods need further development to reach clinical applicability. A possible approach could be the fusion of breast MRI and the 3D surface scan to harmonize anatomic limits and improve volume delimitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite the breast volume being an essential metric component of any aesthetic or reconstructive breast surgery, up to date, there has been no accepted measurement technique that is globally accepted by breast surgeons. Appropriate measurement might lead to decrease of the reoperation rates. We introduced a novel technique that provides simply accurate volume measurement. Methods: Thirty patients with breast cancer who were scheduled for modified radical mastectomy were included in the study. Preoperative breast volume measurement using the novel device and breast MRI studies was done for all patients; meanwhile, the gold standard technique (direct water displacement measurement of mastectomy specimen) was used to measure the volume of breast specimen following mastectomy. Results: There were strongly positive correlations between the device and gold standard technique (r = 0.957) in 23 patients, and (r = 0.997) in 30 patients when MRI was compared to gold standard measurements. In group 1 (breast volume < 500), there is a strong correlation between the device and gold standard (r = 0.914) and for the MRI and gold standard (r = 0.965). In group 2 (500–1000), there was also a strong correlation between the device and gold standard (r = 0.986) and for the MRI and gold standard (r = 0.989) as well. Conclusions: The novel device had been proven to be cost-efficient, simple, reproducible technique with minimal learning curve. It provides reliably comparable results to gold standard techniques and MRI measurement in breast volumes up to 1000 cc. It utilized simple material and basic principles that can be easily used in most settings. Level of evidence: Level IV, diagnostic study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PurposeThis study investigated the impact of arms/hands and body position on the measurement of breast density using MRI.MethodsNoncontrast-enhanced T1-weighted images were acquired from 32 healthy women. Each subject received four MR scans using different experimental settings, including a high resolution hands-up, a low resolution hands-up, a high resolution hands-down, and finally, another high resolution hands-up after repositioning. The breast segmentation was performed using a fully automatic chest template-based method. The breast volume (BV), fibroglandular tissue volume (FV), and percent density (PD) measured from the four MR scan settings were analyzed.ResultsA high correlation of BV, FV, and PD between any pair of the four MR scans was noted (r > 0.98 for all). Using the generalized estimating equation method, a statistically significant difference in mean BV among four settings was noted (left breast, score test p = 0.0056; right breast, score test p = 0.0016), adjusted for age and body mass index. Despite differences in BV, there were no statistically significant differences in the mean PDs among the four settings (p > 0.10 for left and right breasts). Using Bland-Altman plots, the smallest mean difference/bias and standard deviations for BV, FV, and PD were noted when comparing hands-up high vs low resolution when the breast positions were exactly the same.ConclusionsThe authors' study showed that BV, FV, and PD measurements from MRI of different positions were highly correlated. BV may vary with positions but the measured PD did not differ significantly between positions. The study suggested that the percent density analyzed from MRI studies acquired using different arms/hands and body positions from multiple centers can be combined for analysis.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to look into the relationship between breast size and mammographic breast density in women and breast radiation dose on full-field digital mammography (FFDM), as well as the factors that influence radiation dose. Materials and Methods: The study included a total of 2,060 FFDM images from 515 consecutive participants. The participants were divided into two groups: those exposed to high doses (>3 mGy) and those exposed to low doses (<3 mGy). Moreover, the researchers analyzed the relationship between mean glandular dose (MGD) of the breast and patient age, compressed breast thickness, compression force, mammographic breast composition, and mammographic breast size. Results: The mean mammographic breast volume was 936.2 ± 425.2 (114.5-3,018) mL, and the mean compressed breast tissue thickness was 56.75 ± 10.44 mm. Moreover, the mean MGD in the high-dose group was 3.51 ± 0.48 mGy and 1.92 ± 0.56 mGy in the low-dose group. The high-dose group had greater breast thickness, diameters, volume, compression pressure, and surgical rate. However, the high-dose group was younger and had less dense breasts. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, the most important predictors of dose determination were breast thickness [odds ratio (OR): 1.178, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.156-1.200, p<0.001], history of previous surgery (OR: 2.210, 95% CI: 1.417-3.447, p<0.001), compression force (OR: 1.008, 95% CI: 1.004-1.013, p<0.001), and breast density (OR: 1.873, 95% CI: 1.359-2.580, p<0.001). Conclusion: Women with larger breast volumes are subjected to higher doses of radiation. Therefore, breast-screening programs can be individualized to young women with larger breast volumes and women who have had breast-conserving surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Three-dimensional (3D) imaging offers an objective and quantitative way to evaluate the breast volume. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether arm position can be a factor influencing the measurement of breast volume and which arm position is more stable when using 3D breast imaging in evaluating the fat volume retention rate in autologous fat grafting for breast augmentation. Methods: Patients undergoing breast augmentation with autologous fat grafting in our department were selected for the first part of this study. Preoperative 3D breast imaging was performed at three different arm positions: at the sides, akimbo and with hands on the head. Scans on each arm position were repeated on the first day after surgery, taking six scans in total. Breast volume change (BVC) was compared before and after surgery. The patients planning to receive bilateral mammaplasty in our department were selected for the second part of this study. Two repeated 3D scans were performed at the sides, akimbo and hands on the head, and then, the breast volume change error (BVCE) was compared. Results: Twenty-five patients (n = 50 breasts) were included in the first part of study. For the patients who received 100–200 ml fat injection, compared with hands on the head, a statistically significant difference in the average BVC was found at the sides and akimbo (p = 0.02). For the patients receiving more than 200 ml fat injection, there was no statistically significant difference between the groups (p > 0.05). Twenty-six patients (n = 52 breasts) were enrolled in the second part. For the average BVCE, there was no significant difference between the groups (p = 0.11). Conclusions: The arm position during 3D breast imaging, to some extent, affects the evaluation of BVC after breast augmentation using autologous fat grafting, particularly for patients receiving less fat grafting. The arm position should be kept consistent when using 3D breast imaging in evaluating the fat volume retention rate. Level of Evidence IV: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: The position, shape and size of the female breast could be variable among people and races. The aim of this study is to calculate the breast volume and to investigate the relationship between the breast size and body components in adult, healthy, unmarried women. METHODS: Total of 93 healthy volunteers (18-24 age) were included this study. To calculate the breast volume of the right and left breast, we made measurements which include breast projection (BP), breast medial radii (BMR), breast lateral radii (BLR), nipple inframammarial sulcus distance (NIR). Breast volume was calculated by the following formula BV=1/3*3.14*BP2*(BMR+BLR+NIR-BP). Additionally, body weight, Body Mass Index (BMI), Skeletal Muscle Mass (SMM), Body Fat Mass (BFM), Percent Body Fat (PBF) were measured using body composition analyzer (InBody 720); The volumes of right and left breasts were compared with Mann Whitney U test. Body composition parameters and their relation to breast volume were investigated with Spearman Corelation Analyzes. RESULTS: According to the result of Man Whitney U test, there were no significant differences found between the volumes of the right and left breast (P>0,05). There was a moderate positive correlation between the breast volume and body weight, BMI and SMM (r = 0.29-0.4). There was a low correlation between the breast volume and BFM and PBF in the positive direction (r = 0.2-0.28). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Our results; might give an idea about ideal breast dimensions. it was also shown that breast volume is particularly related to body weight and body mass index.

A female breast can be a potential source of musculoskeletal problems, especially if it is disproportionately large. The purpose of the present study was to examine the effect of artificially induced breast volume on the EMG activity of neck and trunk musculature during common everyday movements. The EMG activity of the sternocleidomastoid (SCM), the upper trapezius (UT), and the thoracic and lumbar erector spinae (TES, LES) were recorded during 45° trunk inclination from the upright standing and sitting postures (TIST45°, TISI45°) as well as during stand-to-sit and sit-to-stand (STSI, SIST) in 24 healthy females with minimal and ideal breast volume (M-NBV, I-NBV). All movements were performed before and after increasing M-NBV and I-NBV by 1.5-, 3.0-, 4.5-, and 6-times using silicone-gel implants. Significantly higher EMG activity for TES and LES were found at 6.0- and ≥4.5-times increase the I-NBV, respectively, compared to smaller breast volumes during TIST45°. EMG activity of UT was higher, and TES was lower in M-NBV females compared to I-NBV females in all movements but were significantly different only during SIST. The female breast can affect the activity of neck and trunk muscles only when its volume increases above a certain limit, potentially contributing to muscle dysfunction.

This article explores the relationship between maternal body mass index (BMI), breast volume, and milk production in lactating mothers. The study found that there was no significant difference in BMI or breast volume between mothers with low milk production and those with normal milk production. However, there was a higher proportion of mothers with smaller breast volume in the low milk production group. Additionally, mothers with smaller breast volume in the low milk production group had lower milk production compared to both groups with larger breast volume. These findings suggest that BMI and breast growth may be important indicators of milk production. Further research is needed to better understand these relationships and inform interventions for women with higher adiposity. [Extracted from the article]

Breast conservation rate is being increasingly used nowadays as a marker of breast cancer care among hospitals. Searching for the ideal technique to predict the feasibility of BCS is ongoing. For this matter, the preoperative MRIs of 169 patients operated with radical or conservative surgery were reviewed. We estimated the tumor volume (TV) and breast volume (BV) on enhanced 3D‐MRI and compared the tumor‐to‐breast volume ratio (TV/BV) in both groups. The mean ratio was 9.5% in the mastectomy group and 1.7% in the BCS group. A tumor‐to‐breast volume ratio less than 4% seemed to favor the adoption of a conservative option. Our data suggest that preoperative 3D‐MRI can orient the surgical approach by assessing the TV/BV ratio, increasing lumpectomy rates with clear margins and good cosmetic outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this research is to investigate breast size from a comprehensive perspective, which encompasses physical size and aesthetic preference, and identify how women expect to change their breast size and shapes by wearing an everyday bra. Forty-five females are invited to an onsite measurement session. The breast size is evaluated by body scanning and a short questionnaire. Each subject is requested to choose a brassiere that gives her a desired effect, and the impact of those brassieres is analyzed in relevant to breast size. There was a reasonable agreement among a cup indicator, breast volume, and a subjective judgment. However, cup indicators were limited to capture breast size in an approximate sense, but could not be effective enough to assign an exact bra size to an individual. Participants' subjective judgments coincided with breast volume. After wearing the brassieres, breast size increased; breast volume and full bust girth significantly grew. Bust points were relocated inwards and upwards, and there were statistically significant effects of breast volume on these changes in breast size and shape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Thoracic kyphosis and loading of the thoracic spine were compromised by obesity. • Women classified as obese reported more symptoms of upper torso musculoskeletal pain. • Women classified as obese reported less time spent in physical activity. • Strategies to minimize changes to the upper torso in women with obesity are needed. This study investigated the effects of obesity on breast size, thoracic spine structure and function, upper torso musculoskeletal pain and physical activity participation in women living independently in the community. A total of 378 women were divided into 3 groups (Not Overweight: body mass index (BMI) = 22.5 ± 0.2 kg/m2 (mean ± SE); Overweight: BMI = 27.4 ± 0.3 kg/m2; Obese: BMI = 35.4 ± 0.3 kg/m2). Outcome variables of breast volume (mL), thoracic flexion torque (N·m), thoracic kyphosis (degrees), upper torso musculoskeletal pain (score) and time spent in physical activity (min) were calculated and compared among the 3 groups, adjusting for between-group differences in age. There was a significant main effect of BMI on all outcome variables. Participants classified as Obese displayed significantly larger breasts, had greater thoracic flexion torques and reported less time participating in physical activity relative to the participants who were classified as Not Overweight and Overweight. Participants in the Obese group also displayed significantly more thoracic kyphosis and reported significantly more upper torso musculoskeletal pain compared to their counterparts who were classified as Not Overweight. This study is the first to demonstrate that increased obesity levels were associated with compromised kyphosis and loading of the thoracic spine, as well as increased symptoms of upper torso musculoskeletal pain and reduced time spent in physical activity in women living in the community. We recommend further research to determine whether evidence-based interventions designed to reduce the flexion torque generated on the thoracic spine can improve these symptoms of upper torso musculoskeletal pain and the ability of women with obesity to participate in physical activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]