Restore breast shape after mastectomy with Goldilocks breast reconstruction in Nashville, a technique performed at the time of breast removal. Dr. Kristina O’Shaughnessy uses your own tissue to create a natural contour without the need for implants. This option is ideal if you prefer a simpler, implant-free reconstruction with fewer stages and a shorter recovery.
- What Are the Reasons to Consider Goldilocks Breast Reconstruction?
- What Is the Recovery Process After Goldilocks Breast Reconstruction?
- What Are the Benefits of Goldilocks Breast Reconstruction?
- What Are the Expected Results From Goldilocks Breast Reconstruction?
- What Happens During Goldilocks Breast Reconstruction Surgery?
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Create a Breast Mound During Mastectomy
Goldilocks breast reconstruction uses your remaining breast tissue after mastectomy to recreate a breast mound. Unlike implant-based or flap reconstructions, this method avoids the need for implants or tissue from other parts of your body. Dr. O’Shaughnessy performs this during the same surgery as your mastectomy, making it a convenient and effective option for women seeking a simpler reconstruction. It can also be combined with fat grafting to enhance volume and achieve a more natural appearance over time.
What Are the Reasons to Consider Goldilocks Breast Reconstruction?
- Desire to avoid implants or complex flap surgery
- Preference for a single-stage reconstruction during mastectomy
- Limited tissue available for traditional flap procedures
- Previous radiation therapy that limits reconstruction options
- Interest in a more natural, lower-maintenance result
- Need for a shorter recovery period
What Is the Recovery Process After Goldilocks Breast Reconstruction?
After your Goldilocks breast reconstruction in Nashville, you can expect a more comfortable recovery compared to complex reconstructive techniques. Since no implants or donor sites are involved, side effects are typically limited to swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort in the chest. Most patients return to light daily activities within 1 to 2 weeks, with full healing taking several weeks to complete. Dr. O’Shaughnessy will provide detailed instructions to support your healing.
To help ensure a smooth recovery, you should:
- Wear compression garments as directed
- Take prescribed medications to manage discomfort
- Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for several weeks
- Keep surgical sites clean and dry
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments
- Monitor for signs of infection or fluid buildup
- Sleep on your back to avoid pressure on healing tissue
- Follow activity restrictions until cleared by Dr. O’Shaughnessy
What Are the Benefits of Goldilocks Breast Reconstruction?
- Uses your own tissue without implants
- Performed at the time of mastectomy
- Avoids the need for donor sites from other body areas
- Reduces overall surgery time and recovery
- Lowers the risk of implant-related complications
- Offers a natural-looking breast mound
- Can be enhanced with future fat grafting if desired
- Suitable for patients who may not qualify for more complex reconstruction methods
What Are the Expected Results From Goldilocks Breast Reconstruction?
You’ll notice the initial shape of your new breast mound after surgery, though swelling may temporarily affect appearance. As healing progresses over the next weeks, your results will become more defined. Because the reconstruction uses your own tissue, the outcome often looks and feels more natural than implant-based options. These results are typically long-lasting, especially if no implants are involved. If you desire additional volume, Dr. O’Shaughnessy may recommend fat grafting in a future procedure.
What Happens During Goldilocks Breast Reconstruction Surgery?
Goldilocks breast reconstruction is performed immediately after your mastectomy, while you are under general anesthesia. After the removal of your breast tissue, Dr. O’Shaughnessy preserves excess skin and subcutaneous fat, particularly from the lower portion of your breast. She folds this remaining tissue in on itself, carefully shaping it into a breast mound. The skin is closed over the folded tissue to form a soft, rounded contour, often eliminating the need for implants.
This technique is especially useful if you have moderate to large breasts or if you’re seeking a less invasive reconstruction. Because no muscle is taken from another region, the recovery is generally shorter and the risks are lower. Dr. O’Shaughnessy may also recommend fat grafting in a future procedure to enhance volume and symmetry, depending on your goals.
Schedule Your Consultation With Dr. O’Shaughnessy
Dr. Kristina O’Shaughnessy is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 17 years of experience, specializing in breast reconstruction, including advanced techniques such as Goldilocks reconstruction. Trained at Northwestern University and mentored by leaders in the field, she combines technical skills with an empathetic approach. Her integrated clinic and on-site surgical facility in Franklin, TN, ensure continuity of care from consultation through recovery. If you’re considering Goldilocks breast reconstruction in Nashville, schedule your consultation today.
