Archives for December 2017

Ask the Doctor – Why Won’t Insurance Pay For Reconstruction?

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

Question: I don’t understand why insurance company doesn’t pay for reconstruction if you’ve had a lumpectomy. With radiation, your breasts shrink a lot and you are all out of proportion. I finally did get them to pay for prosthesis and bra.

AnswerThat’s not always the case with a lumpectomy. If the surgery results in a significant defect or radiation negatively impact the tissue, most times we can submit your case to your insurance company along with photos of the affected area and they will indeed cover a reconstruction surgery for you.

We’re happy to chat with you about your specific situation and see what we can do to help you through that process.

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

The Benefits of Stillness: 5 Ways to Recuperate and Relax

Twas the day after Christmas and all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse!

The holiday excitement is over, the festivities have come to a close, you can finally rest now and get off of your toes.

The children are nestled all snug in their beds,while visions of sugarplums danced in their heads.

You’ve pulled off a holiday season to remember, one that’s worth a slow clap, now after all of the chaos, it’s time for a nap!

All silly rhymes aside, we’re serious about that nap!

After all, we’ve just come out of a season where many of us tend to run around like chickens with our heads cut off. And if you don’t take the time to recharge, you might start to suffer from exhaustion.

Stillness is so important for the body as it lowers blood pressure, reduces stress, and allows the body to recoup. So, today, we thought we’d share some suggestions on how to “be still” after this crazy season.

Check them out…

Take a Hot Bath

There’s nothing more relaxing than a hot bath on a cold winter’s night.

This week, set aside an hour or so of uninterrupted time and take a hot bath. Then, grab your favorite book, turn on some music, or simply rest as you enjoy the comfort of a warm tub.

If you have children, we recommend you have your partner take the kids out for the evening to grab dinner or go see a movie. After all, the last thing you want is little Timmy interrupting your time of stillness because he can’t find the toilet paper!

Rest in Your Favorite Chair

Most people have a favorite chair that they like to to relax in. You know, the soft, cozy one that cradles you as you let your tired body sink into it?

The moment your house gets quiet, take advantage of that time by spending some quiet time in your favorite chair. Grab a soft blanket, and perhaps a cup of hot cocoa, coffee, or tea, and just sit.

Don’t turn on the TV or grab a book. Just be. Reflect on all the amazing holiday memories that you’ve made, breathe, relax, and enjoy the stillness.

Meditate

Meditation is proven to lower blood pressure and refocus your mind–two benefits people often need after a crazy holiday season.

Not to mention, a study from the University of Wisconsin-Madison also indicates that meditation reduces the grey-matter density in areas of the brain related with anxiety and stress.

Clearly, meditation is the ultimate key to relaxation. So, how exactly do you meditate?

Check out this FREE 30-day  meditation program via YouTube that’s specifically for beginners.

Visit Your Favorite Outdoor Spot and Sit Quietly in Nature

There’s something magically rejuvenating about the stillness of a winter’s day.

If you live in a cold climate, the simple act of sitting on the cool ground while watching snowflakes fall from the sky is peaceful and relaxing.

And, if you live in a warmer climate, you can enjoy the same serenity while watching leaves rustle on the ground or birds flying from tree to tree.

Nature is the perfect environment for being still, letting your mind rest, and reenergizing as you silently watch the beauty that’s all around you. Take a trip to your favorite outdoor spot, soak in the peace and calm, and leave feeling renewed.

Relax While Listening to Your Favorite Peaceful Music

Did you know that music has the ability to disorient rhythmic brain activity in the thalamus and the brain’s outer cortex?

It’s this phenomenon that enables music to make us feel happy and relaxed when we listen to peaceful, calm music.

Schedule some time this week and lie in a dark, quiet room. Then, plug in your headphones and play some classical music or calm music from your favorite genre.

Note: This is not the time for headbanger music, even if it’s your favorite music. Stick to soft, gentle tunes. Otherwise, the sounds of loud, chaotic music will have a reverse effect and the potential to hype you up instead of settling you down.

What is your favorite way to relax and be still? Let us know in the comments below!

 

Ask the Doctor – Would Reconstruction Be Successful For Me?

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

Question: I had implants put in 33 years ago, got breast cancer, had a lumpectomy, radiation, and got rock hard implants as a result. I just recently decided to have the implants removed and a great deal of scar tissue. They put in expanders that caused me to get an infection. I had to almost beg them to believe me as the pain was horrific. I had a 2nd doctor remove the expanders. I now have a very deformed left breast and a severely drooping right breast. I contacted the doctor who put my implants in years ago. He is no longer in the area but told me about this procedure.

I guess my question is if this procedure would be successful for me? I do not like the way I look, and it is painful as well. I am a teacher and would need to know the time frame this would entail. It has been a horrible summer with this ordeal. I almost wish I left the rock-hard implants in. Please let me know what you think. I am very much interested in hearing your thoughts. 

AnswerThank you very much for your question. I’m sorry you have had so much difficulty. Your situation is unfortunately quite common, but the good news is that natural breast reconstruction with your own tissue can often help dramatically. Fortunately, a history of radiation (&/or multiple failed attempts at implant reconstruction) does not at all decrease the success rate of subsequent reconstruction using only your own tissue. We have successfully reconstructed hundreds of women in your situation.

Our first choice for a donor area, if you have some extra tummy tissue, is the DIEP flap. If you do not have adequate tummy tissue, the buttocks (sGAP flap) is also often an excellent donor area.

It is important to realize that natural tissue reconstruction is not just an operation, but a process. The first operation, the microsurgical transfer of the flaps, is by far the largest. It usually takes 6-8 hours, requires a 4-day hospital stay, and a total stay in Charleston of about a week. Recovery takes approximately 6-8 weeks.

After you have healed fully from the first surgery (usually 6 months if you have been radiated), 1-2 additional surgeries are required to achieve optimum results. These are much less involved, ordinarily requiring only one night in the hospital, and you can usually go back home as soon as you are discharged.

While the process can be lengthy, once you are done, you are REALLY done. Most women reconstructed with their own tissue come to regard their reconstructed breasts as their own, and are finally able to put the issue of breast cancer behind them.

I would be happy to call and discuss your situation in more detail if you wish, and thanks again for your question.

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

Merry Christmas from Our Family to Yours

The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction team wants to wish our patients and readers Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

It is such a joy to have friends, former patients, and current clients reaching out to us during this time.  Check out these two fun cards we’ve received!  Thank you all very much for the goodies you’ve dropped by – we’re enjoying every good thing! 

This has been a truly amazing year—our patients are such an inspiration to us, and we’re so grateful to be able to do what we do.   

Our office will be closed on Monday, December 25 and Tuesday, December 26, 2017 for Christmas and on Monday, January 1, 2018 for New Year’s Day.   If you have an emergency,  call our main number 843-849-8418 and you will be directed to the clinician on call.   Use our “Ask the Doctor”  link on our website www.naturalbreastreconstruction.com if you would like to make a New Patient appointment or have a general question about our services.  We’ll be answering those questions – even over the break. 

We hope everyone has a beautiful holiday and we look forward to seeing what 2018 has in store for us all!

 

Happy Holidays,

The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction Team 

 

3 Delicious Hot Cocoa Recipes with a Twist

Winter has arrived, a cool chill is in the air, and it’s the perfect time to cozy up with a steaming cup of hot cocoa.

While we love a classic cup of hot cocoa with marshmallows, we know we have an entire season of sipping this yummy beverage ahead of us. So, we thought it would be fun to share some ideas on how you can add a twist to a classic cocoa recipe.

This year, mix things up and try our recipes that put a twist on one of the world’s most favorite winter drinks.

Enjoy…

Raspberry Hot Chocolate Recipe

Fruit and chocolate are a match made in heaven. So, it’s no surprise that this raspberry hot chocolate recipe is nothing short of amazing.

Give it a try…

Ingredients:

  • 12 ounces (roughly 3 1/2 cups) fresh raspberries
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 1/2 cups milk
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • Mini marshmallows or whipped cream, for topping

Directions:

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the raspberries, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil then boil for 3-5 minutes or until the raspberries are cooked down and the mixture thickens.
  2. Remove from the heat and push through a strainer or sieve, discarding the seeds left behind. You should have roughly 1 cup puree.
  3. In another medium saucepan, heat the milk until hot (but not boiling).
  4. Whisk in the cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and raspberry puree. Serve immediately.
  5. Top with marshmallows or whipped cream.

Recipe Source:
https://www.chocolatemoosey.com/2014/12/29/raspberry-hot-chocolate/

Vegan Chai Hot Chocolate Recipe

Hot chai tea or a steaming cup of cocoa…how can you possibly choose? The good news is that with this recipe you don’t have to! Get the best of both worlds by mixing up this vegan chai hot chocolate recipe.

Check it out…

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups vanilla almond milk, sweetened
  • 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon Chai Spice

Directions:

  1. Place all ingredients in a medium size saucepan.
  2. Bring to a rolling boil and stir until spices and cocoa powder have dissolved.
  3. Reduce heat and let simmer for 3-5 minutes.
  4. Enjoy!

Recipe source:
https://fitfoodiefinds.com/2014/09/vegan-chai-hot-chocolate/#_a5y_p=2519397

Red Velvet Hot Chocolate Recipe

This red velvet hot chocolate recipe combines two classics–a traditional cup of hot chocolate and the delicious taste of red velvet cake. And boy is it delicious! “Have your cake and drink it too” with this tasty drink.

Give it a try…

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate morsels
  • 1/2 teaspoon red gel no-taste food coloring

Ingredients for whipping cream:

  • Vanilla sugar
  • Vanilla sugar whipped cream:
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons vanilla sugar (No vanilla sugar? Add regular sugar and a drop of vanilla extract)

Directions:

For whipped cream:

  1. Add heavy cream and vanilla sugar to a cold metal bowl. Either whip by hand with whisk or with hand-held mixer until soft peaks form.

For hot chocolate:

  1. In a small pan, combine milk, chocolate morsels and food coloring. Gently simmer until hot and all the chocolate is melted.
  2. Top with freshly whipped cream.

Recipe Source:
http://www.sheknows.com/food-and-recipes/articles/850687/red-velvet-hot-chocolate-recipe

What’s your favorite hot cocoa recipe? Share it with us in the comments below!

Ask the Doctor- What Are My Reconstruction Options Using Only My Tissue?

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

Question: I am 39 years old and seeking options regarding a double mastectomy with reconstruction using only my own tissue. I was treated for an aggressive breast cancer in my left breast 3 years ago; went through neoadjuvant chemo, then a lumpectomy followed by radiation. Due to my lifetime high-risk status, I feel a double mastectomy is necessary using my own tissue for reconstruction.

Answer: Thank you for your question, I am glad to hear that you have completed your breast cancer treatment 3 years ago and are doing well. It is very likely that using your own natural tissue is going to be a very good option for you.

Since you have already had radiation on one side the option of removing the remaining breast tissue and having a preventive mastectomy on the other side is the most effective option to minimize your chance of getting breast cancer again.

Although I imagine it is already very low. Have you had any previous surgery on your tummy? Do you feel that you have extra fatty tissue there or any other area of your body? If so then you can probably achieve a proportional natural tissue result without having to sacrifice your important muscles.

If you like I could arrange a convenient time to answer any other questions by phone. Let me know and I’ll have one of my staff contact you to make arrangements.

Thanks again.

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

5 Ways to Manage Holiday Stress

Joy, excitement, anticipation…and stress.  These are four very common emotions that run high during the  holiday season. And in all honesty, we could do without the fourth one–stress.

After all, having a panic attack in the middle of singing Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer is not fun for anyone.

If we desire joy, peace, and happiness, why is it that we let ourselves succumb to the madness of the season?

We believe there are two major reasons.

  1. We focus so much on others and forget to take care of our own needs.
  2. We get caught up in the whirlwind of holiday activities and forget to take a moment to breathe.

If you’re looking to take the stress out of the holiday season this year, we recommend you take to heart the following tips….

Tip #1 — Make Time for  Self-Care

It’s the season of giving. And trust us, there’s nothing more wonderful than giving your time, attention, and resources to others.

That being said, it’s not okay to forget about yourself.

Self-care is necessary if you want to keep stress levels low and be able to remain calm when the cat knocks all the ornaments off the tree or when your in-laws have overstayed their welcome.

Make time every day to do something for you–whether it be making a meal you love, sitting down with a good book, or watching your favorite television show.

We promise, there’s nothing wrong with asking your partner to bake the cookies for your kid’s class party or saying no to an event so you have time to stay home and relax.

Tip #2 — Say No to Things You Don’t Want to Do/Don’t Have Time For

Between organizing parties, attending events, hosting fundraisers, and other activities, there’s a lot on your schedule during the holidays.

It’s easy to overbook yourself…especially if you’re a people pleaser who doesn’t want to disappoint. But, the reality is, you just can’t do it all without getting stressed out.

This year, say no to the things that you don’t want to do or don’t have time for.

Your office holiday party will still be a hit even if the cupcakes you bring are store-bought instead of homemade, and your town’s holiday festival will still go on without your presence.

Slim down your schedule this year, and you’ll find the season much more enjoyable. We promise.

Tip #3 — Get Organized

One of the best ways to manage holiday stress is to get organized. And even at this point in the month, there’s plenty you can do to get ahead before overwhelm and stress get too out of hand.

Here are a few ideas…

  • Sweet lovers–Schedule a grocery trip to get all of your baking supplies at once. Store it in your pantry so it’s ready whenever you get the itch to bake.
  • Party attendees–Make sure you place all your events on a calendar so you can clearly see how your time is scheduled.
  • Gift givers–Make a list of all the gifts you’ll be purchasing this year. Then schedule a shopping day to get all your shopping done.

We recently wrote a post on ways to get organized for the holiday season. Check out some additional ideas and read the blog here.

Tip #4 — Keep Things Simple

There’s no need to overcomplicate things during the holidays. Yet, it’s something too many of us seem to do (especially after reading Southern Living or a lifestyle blog that makes you want to wow friends and family and attempt your own centerpiece made out of fruit).

Fret not, overachiever. Here are a few ways to keep it simple and lower your stress levels:

  • If you love baking, but don’t have time to make everything from scratch, buy premade cookie dough.
  • If you want to give your loved ones gifts this year, but are stressing out over what to buy them, give them money or gift cards.
  • If you’re hosting a holiday party, but are worried about making dinner and prepping for all those people, have the event catered.

You get the idea…keep it simple!

Tip #5 — Practice Meditation or Deep Breathing Exercises

Meditation and deep breathing exercises are scientifically proven to clear your mind, slow your heart rate, and reduce your stress levels.

If you’re feeling stressed, try to practice some form of meditation each day.

Not sure where to start?

We recommend taking a yoga class or a meditation/wellness class in your community.

Or, if you’re looking for a free option, check out YouTube. Search for “yoga instruction” or “deep breathing exercises,” and pages of free videos will pop up for you to use.

What do you do to stay stress-free during this busy season? Let us know in the comments below!

Ask the Doctor – I Am 3 Years Post Mastectomy With Radiation On My Right Side And I Am Interested In The Diep Flap Surgery.

This week, Audrey Rowen, PA-C, of The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction answers your question about breast reconstruction.

Question:  I am interested in the DIEP flap surgery. I am 3 years post mastectomy with radiation on my right side. I am 56 years old and live in Columbia and I have spoken with one of your patients who was happy with her breast reconstruction. I would like to make an appointment.

Answer: Thank you for reaching out to us! My name is Audrey and I am the physician assistant here at the practice. We would be happy to make an appointment for you to come and see us! Which days work best for you? Our normal clinic days are Monday, Tuesday, and Friday. If you’d prefer to schedule over the phone vs. email, feel free to call our office at 843-849-8418 anytime over the next few days and we can set that up for you.

Did you have bilateral mastectomies or just the right side? Are you interested in bilateral DIEP reconstruction? Once we get you on the schedule, we like to try getting some of your records in regards to your oncology and surgery history so it is a huge help if you could get us the names of our Oncologist, PCP, and breast surgeon so we can start requesting those records before your appointment. I am also happy to chat with you over the phone if there are any questions you would like answered before you make the trip out to see us.

Please let us know which days and times work best for you to schedule an appointment and let me know what other ways I can help! We look forward to meeting you soon!

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

Must-See Holiday Movie List for the Family


There’s nothing better than throwing on some cozy p.j.’s, popping some popcorn, and settling down for a movie night with the family. Especially now that our favorite classic holiday movies are playing regularly on TV and Netflix.

This year, we thought it would be fun to put together a list of our favorite family-friendly holiday movies.

Are your favorites on our list? Find out now…

Movie #1 — Elf

Elf is a comedic story about a man named Buddy who was accidentally transported to the North Pole as a baby and raised among Santa’s elves. Unable to shake the feeling that he doesn’t fit in, Buddy travels to New York, in full elf uniform, in search of his real father.

Not only will this flick have you in stitches from laughing, but it will also have you spreading Christmas cheer by singing loudly for all to hear.

This movie is often played on ABC family multiple times during the month of December.

 

 

 

Movie #2 — A Charlie Brown Christmas

A Charlie Brown Christmas has become an iconic holiday classic since its 1965 release. This year, discover the real meaning of Christmas and join Charlie Brown as he organizes the town Christmas pageant.

Check your local listings to find out when it airs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Movie #3 — Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Claymation Version

Kick it old-school with a screening of the claymation version of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Will Rudolph and Hermey the elf make it past Bumble, the scary snow monster? You’ll just have to watch the movie to find out!

You can find copies of this classic film in movie rental stores, or stream it live on your computer via YouTube and other websites that provide affordable access to movies online.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Movie #4 — It’s a Wonderful Life

It’s a Wonderful Life is a magical story about a man named George Bailey who wishes he had never been born. Upon hearing George’s wish, a Christmas angel  is sent to earth to make George’s wish come true. Over time, George starts to realize how many lives he has changed and impacted, and how they would be different if he were never there.

It’s tradition for NBC to play this movie every Christmas Eve. Be sure to mark it on your calendar so you don’t miss it this year!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Movie #5 — Home Alone

Home Alone, released in 1990, tells the story of 8-year-old Kevin McCallister who gets accidentally left home alone after spending the night in the attic as punishment for acting out. While his family is enjoying a holiday trip in Paris, he’s left home alone to protect his home from sneaky (and very funny) burglars.

This movie is typically available via Netflix during the holiday season. If you can’t find it online, check your local movie rental store or TV guide to see when it’s playing.

 

 

 

 

 

 

#6 — A Christmas Story

“You’ll shoot your eye out,” “oh fudge!”, and “He looks like a pink nightmare” are all famous quotes that came from the movie A Christmas Story.  If you haven’t seen this film yet, you must join Ralphie Parker on his dream of getting a Red Ryder air rifle from Santa this year.

Every year on December 24 and 25, TNT airs the movie for 48 hours straight.
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Movie #7 — The Polar Express

The Polar Express, a movie based on the beloved children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg, takes you on an amazing adventure with a boy who takes a train ride to the North Pole.  On this journey, the little boy discovers that the wonder of life and the magic of the holiday season never fade for those who believe.

This movie often airs on ABC family. Check your TV guide listings for when it will be played.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Movie #8 — The Grinch

The Grinch is a classic tale about a grumpy Grinch that decides to ruin Christmas for the cheery citizens of Whoville. In the midst of trying to steal Christmas from all the Whos in Whoville, the Grinch runs into an endearing character named Cindy Lou Who. Will she be able to stop him from ruining Christmas? Find out while watching the movie.

The Grinch often airs in December on ABC Family. Or, if you’re interested, the old cartoon version of the Grinch can usually be found on CBS. Check your local listings for airtimes.
 

 

 

 

What is your favorite holiday movie? Share it with us in the comments below!

Ask the Doctor- I Am Not Eligible For Diep Surgery. Can I Have Gap Surgery At The Same Time As I Have Both Breasts Removed?

This week, Richard Kline, MD, of The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction answers your question about breast reconstruction.

Question:  I learned from my doctor at MUSC yesterday that I do not have enough fat and am therefore not a candidate for DIEP surgery. He suggested I make an appointment with you before my surgery for mastectomy.  I do not have clean margins in my right breast after lumpectomy and I have chosen to have both breasts removed. If I am eligible for GAP, is there any difference with having it done at the same time or later? I am 70 years old, healthy, an avid tennis player, with no chemo or radiation needed.

Answer: We have done about 300 GAP flaps with a 95.7% success rate. There are actually advantages to having the GAP surgery done at a later date, as it is a much more involved and lengthy surgery than the DIEP.
I would be delighted to see you at any time, evaluate your donor sites, and discuss options in more detail.

Thanks for contacting us, and I look forward to hearing from you.

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