Finding the “Just Right” Fit: Understanding the Goldilocks Procedure
“If only someone had told me…” That phrase circles my mind sometimes when I think back on my breast cancer journey, and the decisions I had to make about my body.
My Goldilocks Story
When I first learned I needed a mastectomy, I was presented with the usual reconstruction options:
Go flat (no reconstruction)
Get implants
Or have a big surgery called a flap reconstruction, like the DIEP flap, where they move tissue from your belly to build new breasts
But none of those felt right for me.
I knew I didn’t want implants in my body. I wasn’t comfortable with long surgeries, bigger scars, and longer recoveries. I even started preparing myself to go flat because I thought that was my only option.
Then I heard about the Goldilocks procedure…almost by accident, after insisting I didn’t want the other surgeries.
And suddenly… it was like someone turned on a light.
Because the Goldilocks procedure was exactly what I didn’t know I was looking for.
It was perfect for me.
So, What Is the Goldilocks Procedure?
The Goldilocks procedure is a breast reconstruction option done at the same time as a mastectomy.
Instead of throwing away all the skin and fatty tissue after removing the breast tissue, your surgeon folds, shapes, and tucks that tissue into small breast mounds.
Think of it like sculpting something new out of what’s already there.
It’s still surgery, and it’s not for everyone, but it’s often a shorter operation than big flap surgeries. Some women choose additional fat grafting later to add shape or size, but many are happy with the results as they are.
A Quick Word About DIEP
Just so you know the difference:
DIEP flap surgery is another way to rebuild the breast using your own tissue, but it’s a bigger deal. Surgeons take skin and fat from your belly, disconnect it completely, move it to your chest, and reconnect tiny blood vessels under a microscope.
It can give very natural results and even a flatter belly, but it’s a long surgery with more recovery time and more scars.
I mention it because a lot of women only hear about DIEP or implants, and never about Goldilocks.
Why Goldilocks Might Be “Just Right”
Goldilocks could be a good choice if:
✅ You don’t want implants in your body.
✅ You have larger breasts to start with (more tissue for the surgeon to work with).
✅ You prefer a simpler surgery with less recovery than big flap reconstructions.
✅ You’re okay with smaller, softer breast shapes rather than the fullness you had before.
It might not be for you if:
🚫 You’re very slim and don’t have much extra tissue.
🚫 You’re looking for the same size and shape you had before surgery.
Pros and Cons (From Someone Who’s Been There)
Things I appreciate about my Goldilocks reconstruction:
I avoided implants and foreign materials in my body.
My surgery and recovery were shorter.
It’s all my own tissue.
I have a shape under clothes, which helps me feel more like myself.
Things to know:
My breasts are smaller than before surgery.
There’s less fullness and projection than implants or flap surgeries might give.
I have scars, though they’ve softened over time.
You might want extra fat grafting later to improve shape, but not everyone does.
Caring for Yourself After Goldilocks Surgery
One thing I wish someone had prepared me for is how it actually feels afterward.
Here’s what I’ve learned, both from my own experience and talking with other women:
1. Stiffness Happens.
Your chest may feel tight or heavy at first. Gentle stretching and physical therapy help, but start slow.
2. Numbness Is Real.
Some areas stay numb, while others feel tingly or itchy as nerves heal. For some, numbness improves; for others, it’s permanent.
3. Scars Deserve Care.
Once healed, silicone gels or scar sheets can help flatten scars. Gentle massage can also help, but check with your surgeon first.
4. Shoulders and Posture Matter.
Protect your shoulders and upper back from getting tight. A physical therapist can help prevent long-term stiffness.
5. Emotions Take Time.
Looking in the mirror can be hard. Give yourself grace. It’s okay to mourn what’s lost and also celebrate what your body has survived.
6. Wear What Feels Good.
Soft, wireless bras or compression tops can help early on. Some women choose breast prostheses for extra volume in clothes. It’s all about what makes you feel comfortable.
Why I’m Sharing This
I got the Goldilocks procedure myself, and I’m so grateful I found it.
It might not be right for everyone, but for me, it was just right.
I’m writing this because I remember sitting in those doctors’ offices, feeling overwhelmed and scared, trying to make decisions I’d have to live with for the rest of my life.
And no one mentioned Goldilocks to me until I practically demanded other options.
I want you to know it exists.
Because knowing your options is power, and you deserve all the information before you’re on the operating table.
If you’re facing a mastectomy or know someone who is, talk to a plastic surgeon who’s experienced in different reconstruction methods, including Goldilocks. Ask every question. Get second opinions.
You deserve care that fits you.
Read More
If you’d like to learn more, here are some helpful resources: