Anyone with ILC (invasive lobular cancer) had Goldilocks mastectomy?
After 9 months on AI to reduce tumor, which it has done, I have decided to have a mastectomy rather than lumpectomy. My oncologist surgeon has recommended the Goldilocks method which preserves the nipple and leaves a slightly more “normal” appearance. Has anyone else had this method and what was your experience? TIA!
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@buckokey, I moved your question to the Breast Cancer group so that you will get responses. @keepmoving2 shares her experiences in this related discussion:
- Goldilocks Mastectomy https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/goldilocks-mastectomy/
Buckokey, when is your surgery scheduled for?
Greeting and blessings to you! I had the Goldilocks in 2024 (I have Invasive ductal carcinoma so my version was not nipple sparing). I loved the idea of an all-in-one and done surgery and am so super pleased with the outcome. Especially now that I received 3D looking nipple tattoos! My surgery was done at Mayo in Jax. Happy to answer any questions!
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1 ReactionThank you for sharing your experience!! My procedure is in delay mode as I also need knee replacement—so doctors are discussing which one should be done first. What a mess I’ve been through since day one. But I believe I have the best doctors so am trusting them to resolve in my best interest. So happy to learn of your success with Goldilocks surgery!
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1 Reaction@colleenyoung my surgery is on hold currently (3/21/26) as I now need knee replacement so doctors are discussing which comes first. My tumor has shrunk remarkably well so oncologist assured me there’s no danger in postponing. Thanks.
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1 Reaction@cmb93
The cancer is in my left breast but I want them to be the same. I haven't had final conversations with Doctor & Plastic surgeon. I don't want a flat left & giant right ! so I have been reading up on goldilocks. I would like to have that done on both so they are even. Smaller would be a treat! Also, I don't care about nipples. At 79, been there, done that !!! Sorry, I have have the attitude of Let's Get It Done & Move On. Would you do this again & how long was your recovery? Will be at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles. Thanks.
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2 ReactionsI guess I’m not too worried about the odd size because I had a lumpectomy 25 years ago and have been somewhat lopsided ever since! lol My oncologist told me I would have a small “mound” similar to my right breast. And I’d I need filler there’s all kinds of bras and such to take care of that. I’m only a B/C size anyway so it’s not really a big issue. I did talk with someone who was not happy with the Goldilocks because her breast/nipples weren’t even and that was troublesome to her. I’ve now developed the need for knee replacement so that’s caused issues and the surgeons are discussing which takes precedence. Like you I just wanted it all over with to live “normal” for whatever time I have left😊! Good luck to you in your journey and let us know what you decide!
You may also be interested in following the discussions here:
- Joint Replacements Support Group https://connect.mayoclinic.org/group/joint-replacements/
@buckokey, which came first? Knee replacement or mastectomy? How are you doing?
@colleenyoung I’m having g knee surgery on 4/16. Once I’ve recovered from that then the mastectomy will be done. Com thinking maybe first week of June. It’s sure been a crazy long year dealing with it all. Thanks for your thoughts!
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