Outcomes of the Goldilocks Technique in High-Risk Breast Reconstruction Patients

Abstract

Background:The Goldilocks technique seeks to provide a safe alternative for patients who are otherwise at risk of adverse complications during reconstruction. The technique involves deepithelializing and locally contouring mastectomy skin flaps to create a breast mound. The purpose of this study was to analyze outcomes in this cohort of patients.Methods:A review was performed on a prospective database of all patients who underwent postmastectomy Goldilocks reconstruction between June of 2017 and January of 2021 at a tertiary care center. Data queried included patient demographics, comorbidities, complications, outcomes, and subsequent secondary reconstructive surgery.Results:This series included 58 patients (83 breasts) who underwent Goldilocks reconstruction. Mean age at reconstruction was 56 years (range, 34 to 78 years), and 82% (48 patients) were obese (average body mass index, 36.8). When analyzed by individual breast, the overall complication rate was 18%. Most complications (n= 9), such as infection, skin necrosis, and seroma, were treated in the office. Six breasts experienced major complications (ie, hematoma and skin necrosis) requiring additional surgery. At the time of follow-up, 35% (n= 29) of breasts had a secondary reconstruction, consisting of 17 implants (59%), two expanders (7%), three fat grafts (10%), and seven autologous reconstructions (24%). The complication rate for secondary reconstruction was 14%.Conclusions:The Goldilocks breast reconstruction technique is safe and effective for high-risk breast reconstruction patients. Although early postoperative complications are limited, patients should be counseled on the likelihood of a subsequent secondary reconstruction procedure to achieve their desired aesthetic outcome.CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:Therapeutic, IV.