The Evolution of Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) in Plastic Surgery

Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are health outcomes that are only known to, and can be reported by, patients, such as physical, psychosocial, and sexual wellbeing after surgery. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are questionnaires that enable rigorous and quantifiable measurement of PROs. Improving the health-related quality-of-life (HRQL) of patients is central to performing the vast majority of plastic and reconstructive surgery procedures. As such, PROMs are useful and important metrics for patient-centered care, innovation, and quality improvement. Here, we review five landmark papers to demonstrate the evolution of PROMs in plastic surgery. Specifically, we highlight key studies in the development, utility, impact, and implementation of PROMs in plastic surgery.