Evaluation of a Web-based Patient Education Tool for Breast Augmentation

Abstract

Introduction: To evaluate the utility of a Web-based educational tool for women who have had or who are considering breast augmentation. Materials and Methods: A definitive Web-based resource, http://www.breastimplantcare.com , was developed for use by patients and physicians, which summarizes, in lay terminology, contemporary, evidence-based information for decision-making and long-term follow-up regarding breast augmentation. Urchin Web analytics v.5.7.03 data and Google Analytics for Web site traffic reporting were analyzed. Results: Over a 1-year period, the Web site received over 12 800 hits. Within 6 months, there were 2548 unique visitors. The number of daily visitors has ranged from 12 to 71. The average visitor looks at 5 to 6 pages of the site. Monitoring Your Implants is the most popular page viewed. Patients have contacted this site from a wide geographic area looking for immediate postoperative advice and for help with long-term problems. Those with immediate postoperative questions are referred back to their treating physician. Though over 70 visitors have visited the pages with downloadable forms to be a part of a prospective study funded by the Cosmetic Surgery Foundation (CSF), only 5 new patients have joined the study. Discussion: This Web-based educational tool for women who have had or are considering breast augmentation has demonstrated utility in providing information and helping educate women who are considering or who have had breast augmentation. The site is less effective as a recruiting tool for the grant study, but from a Web marketing standpoint, it is a good return on investment.