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Archives for May 2016

Spoleto Festival USA 2016

May 31, 2016 by

Once a year, gifted artists from around the world gather in Charleston, SC, for the Spoleto Festival USA. This year the festival takes place May 27 – June 12, 2016.

This is a festival our team looks forward to every year. If you’re in the area, or are visiting, we strongly recommend you check it out.

We love this event because it beautifully blends renowned artists with emerging performers and provides us with 17 wonderful days packed full of entertainment.

Over the 17 days, you’ll have opportunities to immerse yourself in theater, opera, concerts, and much more!

A few highlights of this year’s festival include…

  • A performance of The Importance of Being Earnest by the Dublin’s Gate Theatre.
  • Porgy and Bess, an opera conceived right here in our hometown of Charleston.
  • A vocal performance by the talented Westminster Choir.

For 17 days and nights each spring, Spoleto Festival USA fills Charleston, South Carolina’s historic theaters, churches and outdoor spaces with stunning performances. We hope to see you there!

Learn more about the Spoleto Festival USA.

Filed Under: All Things Charleston Tagged With: , ,

Ask the Doctor-Do Soft Spots Indicate a Problem?

May 27, 2016 by

This week, James E. Craigie, MD, of The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction answers your question.

Question:  I have an expander and I notice there are soft spots on the front of my breast. Does this mean there is something wrong?

Answer: The best thing to do would be to ask your surgeon about the spots on your breast.

The soft spots that you described don’t sound worrisome but unless we did your surgery and are familiar with your situation then we have no way to knowing if anything is wrong.

Have a question about breast reconstruction or post-surgical you’d like answered from our surgical team? Just ask!

Filed Under: Ask the Doctor Tagged With: , , , , ,

Charleston Harbor Cruises: See the Seas of The Lowcountry  

May 24, 2016 by

 

SEA Charleston the right way. (See what we did there?) Puns aside, we’d like to talk with you about harbor cruises.

This is very serious stuff.

Harbor cruises allow you to enjoy spectacular views of our fair city and simultaneously enjoy the staggering beauty of the sea.

When you’re in a historic city like Charleston, it’s imperative to jump on a cruiser and gain a new perspective.

We at The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction have a few ideas on the best harbor cruises Charleston has to offer.

So whether you live here or you’re in town visiting, dive in! (We did it again. Ha!)

Charleston Harbor Cruises

Charleston Harbor Cruises has a trip for every taste. In late May and early June, Charleston Harbor Cruises offers Blues Cruises.

You guessed it—you can hit the high seas and listen to live Blues music.

Boarding starts at 6:30 p.m. and you’ll cruise around until 9:00 p.m.

It’s a great time.

Book your tickets here.

Spiritline Cruises

A family-owned company, SpiritLine Cruises has taken over 12 million passengers on over 100,000 Charleston boat tours and events.

Whether you’re looking to cruise around with friends, or you’re celebrating an event, SpiritLine Cruises has you covered.

Ideal for romantic date nights, weddings, or even friends hanging out, these cruises accommodate you.

SpiritLine also handles corporate group events, family reunions, student dinner parties, fundraisers, or simply a group who wants to hit the high seas.

Really, we don’t think you need a reason to take a cruise at all. But we’re glad SpiritLine is so accommodating.

Book your tickets here.

Adventure Harbor Tours

Private boat charters.

Sunset cocktail cruises.

Morris Island boat tours.

Private boat charters.

Yeah, those are four perfect reasons to check out Adventure Harbor Tours. Now is the perfect time to have a little seaside adventure with family and friends.

One awesome thing about Adventure Harbor Tours is that you have a choice of boats—small, medium, and large—designed to fit your group and budget.

Book your tickets here.

Sandlapper Water Tours

Sandlapper offers numerous options for your harbor cruise.

The Palmetto

This option allows you to experience Charleston harbor’s rich history and heritage while you learn about maritime history and tideland treasures.

Charleston Dinner Cruise

Frogmore Stew, an Oyster Roast, or a Lowcountry Crab Boil…ummm, yes please!

Sandlapper Tours entertains you and your guests with a unique and authentic dinner that you can only get in Charleston.

Charleston Nature Tours

Charleston Nature Tours and Charleston Historic Tours allow you and other passengers to experience Charleston, its harbor, and Lowcountry living like never before.

Book your tickets here.

Filed Under: All Things Charleston Tagged With: , ,

Ask the Doctor-Are you Able to Smooth out my Stomach?

May 20, 2016 by

This week, James E. Craigie, MD, of The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction answers your question.

Question:  I had bilateral nipple sparing surgery. I also had latissimus dorsi for my right breast with an attempt to pull fat from my stomach to fill in (there was very little). Now under my right arm is a roll of what appears to be fat and it feels like I have a ball under my arm. Also, my right breast is so small and very tight.

The lipo attempt has left me with HUGE hard lumps and rolls that are very uncomfortable. It hurts to wear a bra or anything that has a band around me cause of the lumps and bumps. Prior to this my stomach was FLAT and actually nice.

Now it is HIDEOUS! Since this was all due to having bc. I am looking for a brilliant Dr. who can smooth out my stomach and give me a breast that is actually there and doesn’t feel like like a baseball!!

Answer: Thanks for your question.

I’m sorry you have had so much trouble with our reconstruction. Sometimes people have problems under the arm such as you describe after a latissimus flap, and there are techniques which can improve this.

What was done for your left breast?

If you wish, we can have our nurse Chris or PA Kim call you to discuss your situation in more detail, just let us know

Have a question about breast reconstruction or post-surgical you’d like answered from our surgical team? Just ask!

Filed Under: Ask the Doctor Tagged With: , , , , ,

The Best Charleston Farmers’ Markets

May 17, 2016 by

 

 

Charleston Farmers’ Markets provide the perfect venue to sample local fair, get to know your neighbors, and discover new and exciting foods.

Take a day trip to any number of our Lowcountry farmers’ markets, and there’s a good chance you’ll see a member of our team. We’re the ones admiring the tomato pyramids or filling our baskets with fresh strawberries.

As Charleston is brimming with farmers’ markets, we’ve listed a few of our favorites—downtown, in Mount Pleasant, and one in North Charleston, too.

Hope to see you around!

Mount Pleasant Farmers’ Market

Take a drive down Coleman Boulevard, and you’ll see a huge farmers’ market that’s bustling. The sea of people with the chill vibe is one of the reasons that the Mount Pleasant Farmers’ Market is a landmark of the Mount Pleasant area.

With permanent sheds that still boast an open-air experience, this farmers’ market attracts visitors year-round. They even have a tremendous holiday market festival in December.

Learn more.

Charleston Farmers Market

In the summertime, you’ll find a beautiful array of peaches and tomatoes. But you better show up early, especially on Saturday!

Despite the busyness, the Charleston Farmers Market is a downtown favorite. If we had to guess, it’s not just the bounty of fresh fruits and vegetables that make this place such an event. You can also taste different coffees, enjoy some boiled peanuts, and check out all the arts and crafts.

Learn more.

Boone Hall Farms Market

Ah, the Boone Hall Farms Market. It’s open every day. And all year, too!

This quaint market is one of our favorites. In addition to the vendors, you will also get to pick your own fruits and vegetables.

In May, you can fill your basket with fresh strawberries. Come October, you can choose your own pumpkins.

If you’re not into manual labor, you can also check out the café located on the grounds.  (We recommend the local seafood—yum!)

Learn more.

Homegrown Johns Island

Even though it’s one of the newer farmers’ markets in town, the Homegrown Johns Island farmers’ market sits on one of Charleston’s oldest farms. It’s known for local cheese, yummy granola, and a variety of canned goods.

Held only on Saturday, it has games for the kiddos (and the adult kiddos, too)!

Learn more.

North Charleston Farmers’ Market

 Arts and crafts. Fruits and vegetables. Fun and games.

What’s not to love?

The North Charleston Farmers’ Market recently opened back up. Be sure to check the schedule, as there are various musical acts that play throughout the season.

Learn more.

Filed Under: All Things Charleston Tagged With: , ,

Ask the Doctor-Can you fix a bilateral mastectomy gone wrong?

May 13, 2016 by

This week, James E. Craigie, MD, of The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction answers your question.

Question:  Can you fix a bilateral mastectomy gone wrong? My breasts are now hideous to look at and I’m ashamed of my body now. They are lopsided and not even and I’m left with a 2 inch scar across my entire chest.

Answer: It is difficult to know what we might be able to do for you with the information you gave us, but usually something can be done to at least make things somewhat better.

Many of our patients had multiple prior surgeries elsewhere before we met them, and we were able to help many of them. We would be delighted to have our nurse Chris or PA Kim call to discuss your situation in more detail, if you wish.

Have a question about breast reconstruction or post-surgical you’d like answered from our surgical team? Just ask!

Filed Under: Ask the Doctor Tagged With: , , , , ,

Opportunities for Dancing in Charleston

May 10, 2016 by

At The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction, we’re all about putting more fun in our lives. What better way to enjoy life than to put a little boogie in your step?

We’re serious…

When was the last time you cut a rug?

Whether you live in town or you’re visiting, we think Charleston has some of the best dancing spots on the Eastern seaboard. Before we unveil a few upcoming opportunities to bust a move, here are a few major health benefits of dancing.

  • Dancing strengthens your bones and reduces the risk of osteoporosis.
  • Cutting a rug increases muscular strength, enhances your endurance level, and improves your motor functions.
  • Doing a jig every now and again is by far the most pleasurable way to squeeze in aerobics, so you gain twice the amount of endorphins from fun and exercise.
  • Busting a move creates healthier heart and lungs.
  • Boogying every once in a while helps you drop weight.

While you can always embark on an impromptu dance party right in your living room, you can also find some musical events around Charleston.

Introducing Shaggin’ on the Cooper

Put a little pep in your step at Shaggin’ on the Cooper at Mt. Pleasant Pier! These events take place from April to September—and always on Saturday. The events are $10 general admission and perfect for the whole family.

Saturday, May 14: Shem Creek Boogie Band

 What’s not to love about a group called the Shem Creek Boogie Band? These Charleston locals play ’60s, ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s rock ‘n’ roll, soul, blues, country, and pop, so there’s something for everybody.

 Saturday, June 11: The Sugar Bees

 Sorry to be punny, but the Sugar Bees are pretty sweet. J

Another local musical group, The Sugar Bees play a variety of songs from multiple genres—rock, alternative, blues, beach much, and Americana tunes. You’re in for some seriously talented individuals, as this band has opened for…

  • Maurice Williams and The Zodiacs.
  • The Gatlin Brothers.
  • The Stylistics.
  • The Drifters.
  • The Tams.
  • The Embers.
  • The Platters.
  • Danny and the Juniors.
  • Joe Simon.
  • Chuck Berry, Jay Spell of Jimmy Buffets Coral Reefer Band.
  • Nappy Brown.
  • And more.

 Saturday, July 16: Recollections

 The Recollections aren’t your standard “beach band.” Though they’re all about getting you to move your feet, the Recollections also bring a lush texture to their music. Featuring guitar, bass, keyboard, brass instruments, woodwinds, and percussion, the band will ensure you have a grand time.

With seven highly trained musicians, the Recollections bring diversity to their music that will lift your spirits as you move about the dance floor.

 Saturday, August 13: Vinyl Daze

 We recommend a margarita to accompany your listening to Vinyl Daze. As the band’s name makes it clear, this group is all about fun. With a 70’s groove sound, listening to Vinyl Daze transports listeners to a time when music wasn’t streamed, downloaded, or confined to a laptop.

Grab your tickets for Shaggin’ on the Cooper at Mt. Pleasant Pier!

Filed Under: All Things Charleston Tagged With: , ,

Ask the Doctor-Have you seen insurance cover a mastectomy and reconstruction under BCBS?

May 6, 2016 by

This week, James E. Craigie, MD, of The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction answers your question.

Question:  I have an overwhelming history of breast cancer in my family (2aunts and grandmother ovarian cancer). My mother was diagnosed at age 50 before menopause and had to have chemo and radiation. I have BCBS of SC health insurance and it looks like the genetic testing is covered under medical necessity.

If I test positive I wanted to explore my options and know my coverage. Have you seen insurance cover a mastectomy and reconstruction under BCBS of SC for someone who has not been diagnosed but tests positive? Thanks for your help.

Answer: Thank you for your question. Yes we have had many patients who had negative genetic testing who have had preventive mastectomies and immediate breast reconstruction.

You should discuss your risks and history with a breast surgeon. They will let you know what the insurance company requires. If you are approved for a preventive mastectomy then reconstruction will be covered as well.

Have a question about breast reconstruction or post-surgical you’d like answered from our surgical team? Just ask!

Filed Under: Ask the Doctor Tagged With: , , , , ,

Mother’s Day Fun in the Lowcountry

May 3, 2016 by

This coming Sunday is one of our favorite holidays…Mother’s Day.

We certainly hope you have something special planned for the lady who changed your stinky diapers and smiled all throughout your various “phases.”

If you’re hanging out around Charleston, there are plenty of fun things to do with mom.

Before we list a few ideas, it’s important to remember why this special lady deserves to be celebrated.

#1 Mom wants you to be happy. In fact, she’s dedicated a large part of her life to making you happy, and she’s sacrificed a lot. So dedicate this day to putting a smile on her face.

#2 Mom is underappreciated. Really, you can never to do enough for your mama. She did give you life after all.

#3 Mom gave up a lot. Before you (and maybe your siblings) were born, your mom had much more free time. Even though you’ve flown the coop, mom still spends so much of her time thinking about your well-being.

#4 Mom deserves all the love she can get. Not to get sad, but our time is short on this earth. Let’s show the people we care about that we acknowledge and honor them.

Now that being said, where are you going to take this extra special lady? We at The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction have a few ideas:

Friday, May 6 – Tuesday, May 29: Rock of Ages

 You know deep down that mom’s a rock-and-roller. Well, if she’s more of the Beethoven type, we promise that she’ll still have a grand time during a performance of Rock of Ages.

This play features the hit songs from a cornucopia of artists—Journey, Foreigner, Styx, Twisted Sister, Bon Jovi and more. Even if the music doesn’t do it, the story will.

Featured at the Woolfe Street Playhouse and nominated for a Tony award, this play follows the story of a young woman set out to achieve her dreams. Mom will love it!

Grab your tickets to Rock of Ages.

 Saturday, May 7: North Charleston Arts Festival

 If your mom is a Charleston aficionado or a lover of the arts, this festival is the perfect opportunity. Though the last day of the North Charleston Arts Festival is the day before Mother’s Day, you all will still have an awesome time. (In fact, it makes a great “pre-gift!”)

The history of this event alone is worth a look-see. According to our Charleston mayor R. Keith Summey:

“As Mayor of the City of North Charleston, I am excited to welcome you to the 34th Annual North Charleston Arts Fest. From humble beginnings as a half-day community celebration at Park Circle, the event has matured into one of the most comprehensive arts festivals in South Carolina featuring nine full days of free and ticketed programming throughout the City.”

“We look forward to this event each year as it allows both residents and visitors access to the talents of local, regional, and national artists in the areas of performing, visual, media, and literary arts.”

That sounds like a fun time, right? Take mom out for a pre-Mother’s Day celebration!

Click here for more info on the North Charleston Arts Festival.

Tell us about your mom in the comments below! We want to hear your stories.

Filed Under: All Things Charleston Tagged With: , ,