Effects of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists on Breast Reconstruction Outcomes: A Large-Database Retrospective Study.

Cohort studyJournal of clinical medicine· Jun 2026

Effects of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists on Breast Reconstruction Outcomes: A Large-Database Retrospective Study.

Bilal F Hamzeh, Christopher R Orear, Markos Mardourian … Christodoulos Kaoutzanis

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Breast ReconstructionCohort studyClinical practiceQ2IF 3.5

GLP-1 receptor agonist use linked to higher odds of implant failure after implant-based breast reconstruction

Effects of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists on Breast Reconstruction Outcomes: A Large-Database Retrospective Study.

Bilal F Hamzeh … Christodoulos Kaoutzanis

Journal of clinical medicine · Jun 2026 · Q2 in General Medicine

Background

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) are increasingly prescribed for diabetes and weight loss, with many breast reconstruction candidates being prescribed these medications.

Purpose

This study evaluated the association between GLP-1RA use and postoperative complications in implant-based and autologous tissue breast reconstruction.

Methods

Were propensity score matched (1:1 and 1:3) for demographics and comorbidities including body-mass index and timing of reconstruction (delayed vs. immediate).

n = 57,987 patients

Results

GLP-1RA users had higher odds of implant failure after implant-based reconstruction

OR by subgroup · 95% CI

More results

Between 2014 and 2024, 57,987 patients were identified, of which 823 were GLP-1RA users.

Of those users, 326 patients undergoing implant-based reconstruction and 51 patients undergoing autologous reconstruction were matched to controls.

No significant differences were observed for hematoma, seroma, or thromboembolism.

More results

In autologous reconstruction, GLP-1RA use was not associated with increased risks.

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Conclusion · 1 of 2

GLP-1RA use is linked to higher rates of implant failure, wound healing complications, and readmission in implant-based breast reconstruction only.

Conclusion · 2 of 2

These findings highlight the need for risk stratification and counseling of GLP-1RA users undergoing implant-based procedures and for further research investigating the implications of perioperative use of these agents in plastic surgery.

Effects of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists on Breast Reconstruction Outcomes: A Large-Database Retrospective Study.

Effects of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists on Breast Reconstruction Outcomes: A Large-Database Retrospective Study.

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