The Role of Age in Patient-Reported Outcome Studies After Therapeutic Mastectomy and Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction: A Scoping Review

The purpose of this project is to conduct a scoping review examining how age is incorporated into studies evaluating patient-reported outcomes following therapeutic mastectomy and implant-based breast reconstruction. Although a large body of research has investigated quality of life (QOL) domains such as physical, psychosocial, and sexual well-being, as well as satisfaction, age is often reported only descriptively, though some studies analyze age as a predictor, moderator, covariate, or subgroup variable. This review will systematically identify and synthesize how age is handled analytically in existing studies, including whether it is examined in subgroup analyses, included in regression models, or tested for its impact on patient-reported outcomes. Focusing specifically on therapeutic (rather than prophylactic) mastectomy ensures conceptual consistency by centering women undergoing reconstruction after breast cancer treatment, whose recovery trajectories, psychological experiences, and motivations may differ meaningfully from those undergoing risk-reducing procedures. By mapping the limited and inconsistent ways age has been considered, this project will underscore the need for future research to explicitly examine age-related variability in recovery and adjustment. To appropriately address areas where patients may need the most support, it is necessary to understand the impact of age. This knowledge will provide the foundation for developing meaningful, targeted approaches that address the unique challenges faced by patients across the lifespan. Results will be compiled into a manuscript for submission to a peer-reviewed journal upon completion.