Archives for 2016

Charleston Fishing: Our Favorite Charter Trips

At The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction, we’re always brainstorming where we can send our blog readers next. We thought, “hey, why not send people out to sea!”

Last week, we told you about the best harbor tours Charleston has to offer, so we’re continuing with our nautical theme.

Really, there’s no better way to spend the day than boating around Charleston’s many bodies of water.

While there are plenty of sea-worthy activities in the Lowcountry, this blog goes out to the fishing enthusiasts who read our blog (or to the ladies who send their hubbies to sea so they can get in a little lunch and shopping time with friends).

Charleston is one of the best places to spend a day in the sun and catch a few fish with friends.

Whether you’re looking for speckled sea trout or redfish, we’ve got a few fishing charter trips you’ll definitely want to try.

Even if you don’t know the first thing about fishing, most of the charters we list below have you covered.

You’ll have a tour guide who gives you advice on how to catch the fish you want.

Plus, fishing charter prices are generally all-inclusive—covering pole rentals, fishing licenses, and angling gear, as well as boat rentals.

Without further ado, take a look around and see which fishing charter is ideal for you.

The Charleston Angler

The Charleston Angler is the classic choice for your next Lowcountry fishing trip. You can make a whole day of it.

These guides provide you and your friends with inshore, fly, and near shore fishing charters. Enjoy your trip!

Go fish!

Redfin Charters

If you’re looking for redfish, flounder, speckled sea trout, ladyfish, or black drum, Redfin Charters will help you catch them. (Yes, they’re fun to catch, but fish are also yummy to eat).

You can acquire everything you need from these guys—including licenses, rods, bait, tackle, ice, and water. It’s all-inclusive.

Go fish!

Aqua Safaris Inshore and Offshore Fishing

With a wide array of action-packed offshore charters, pro anglers and first-time fisherman alike use Aqua Safaris to catch mahi-mahi, tuna, redfish, sea trout and sheepshead. Rates are all-inclusive, so you’ll have everything you need.

Go fish!

The Reel Deal Charters

The Reel Deal Charters boasts the best prices for year-round inshore, offshore, deep sea, and big game saltwater fishing. Licenses, bait, and tackle are included in the charter price. In addition, you’ll have your choice of boat for your trip.

Go fish!

Charleston Fish Finder

Charleston Fish Finder is ideal for anyone who wants to make a day of it—from beginners to pro anglers. Captain Ben Floyd will make absolutely sure that you and your friends have a great time on the Charleston waters!

Go fish!

Ask the Doctor-Can You Fix the Way My Breasts Look Post Diep?

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

Question:  I had stage 1 of my Diep done in NY. I would like to have stage 2 completed closer to home as I live just outside of Charlotte. We have our insurance policy with Bc/Bs.

I had some minor healing issues but now I am doing well. I am not happy with how my breasts and body look post Diep. My original surgery was December 1 2015. Thank you.

Answer: I’m sorry you are not happy with your breasts / body now, but things often don’t look too great after stage I, so don’t despair.

I liken stage I to throwing one or two lumps of clay on the chest and waiting for them to “stick”, then at stage II we actually come back and make something pretty out of them.

We would be delighted to help you in any way we can. Our nurse Chris or P.A. Kim will call you soon to get more information.

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

Congratulations to the Class of 2016!!

Grad cap red

I’ve been in a bit of a stupor the past few weeks as my youngest is getting ready to graduate from high school and preparing to leave home for college in the fall.  It alternates between rambling on and on about scholarships, financial aid, school choices, to just standing, staring off into space not able to speak because it’s a bit surreal that my baby girl is ready to make her place in the world.  Not to mention, the constant feeling of being on the edge of a very long, very ugly cry.

Given that my current situation is what’s weighing on my mind right now it seemed natural to ask graduates what they want their parent to know and how that might differ from what the parents want their student to know.   I posed this question to a group of college bound seniors who will graduate June 1, 2016.  Some answers were funny, some sweet and reassuring but all in all do address some of our concerns as parents.

What is the one thing that you would like to tell your parent to help ease their mind and assure them that you are prepared and ready to go to college? 

– Parker also assures his parents that “I’m not going to spend all my study hours playing video games! I promise!  God!”

-Terry knows that “Uber saves lives.”  Smart boy!

-J.J. says beer tastes gross and Parker adds that it goes through your system too quickly.

-Alexandria appreciates learning some basic life skills!  “Thanks for teaching me how to do laundry!”

-Zachary tells us that his parent already knows his future college roommate.  We’re assuming that is a positive statement.  

-Simply stated Eli says “I got this!”

-Anizia thanks her parent for helping her become a mature, independent adult capable of taking care of herself.

-Ashton acknowledges the hard work it takes to be a parent. “I appreciate all the hard work and endless nights towards making me become the successful young lady I am today and I will not underestimate my gift and knowledge to surpass all obstacles.

-Bailey affirms that her parents have taught her well and helped her make good decisions and now she knows how to make good decisions on her own.

-Jonathan shares this “It’s time to for me to grow up in a new and unknown world. You have prepared me for this since I was being held in your arms. But it’s now time to find who I truly am. I will make mistakes, I guarantee it. But it’s you who has taught me to learn from every experience. So thank you.”

-Maddie adds with a smile emoticon that she is ready for this time in her life and reminds her parents that she will always be their little girl.

There are conversations that we parents all want to have with our graduates but somehow don’t seem to be able to do so without coming off as overbearing, nagging, or simply more involved than we are desired to be at this point in our students lives.  So, graduating seniors, bear with your parents as we try to make sure we have taught you and told you everything that we feel like you need to know in the next few months before you leave home.

Your well-being and success in college is our only concern.  We just need to know that you are going to be okay.   We need to know that we did a good job raising you and that you are able to make good, intelligent, and safe choices.   We need to know that you understand that you are going to college for a purpose, not just a party.  Have fun but be smart and keep your studies your number one priority.  We need to know that you feel equipped to handle most of the things we have always done for you – kept your schedule posted on the fridge, given reminders of your commitments, emphasized the importance of your schoolwork, handled your finances, filled out your forms, washed your laundry.    We don’t want you to be scared of new experiences.  We want you to make lifelong friends and we want to be confident in your ability to do so.

Ultimately, we hope you come out of your college experience a happy, productive adult ready to embark on a career that is meaningful to you and allows you to support yourself in the manner that you desire.   That is all. – Gail

 

Spoleto Festival USA 2016

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.

Ask the Doctor-Do Soft Spots Indicate a Problem?

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?

AnswerThe 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!

Charleston Harbor Cruises: See the Seas of The Lowcountry  

 

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.

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

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!

The Best Charleston Farmers’ Markets

 

 

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.

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

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!

Opportunities for Dancing in Charleston

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!