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Tips for Healing after a Mastectomy

July 19, 2016 by

 

The healing process after a mastectomy is different for every woman.

Some women heal quickly, while others take longer. Many women experience pain and discomfort, while others seem to have an easier time.

Much like our bodies, everyone’s experience is unique.

The one thing these women have in common is a desire to recover and heal as quickly and safely as possible. We don’t blame you, ladies!

Despite what your personal experience might be, we here at The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction want to help you on your journey. So, read on for our tips to help you heal after a mastectomy.

Please remember to talk with your personal physician or surgeon before trying the followings tips:

Post-Mastectomy Massage

Many women enjoy the benefits of post-mastectomy massage after their surgical procedure.

Post-mastectomy massage can relieve post-operative pain and edema, and promote the removal of toxins as it assists in the flow of lymph, blood, and oxygen.

In addition to those benefits, over time this form of massage creates an increased range of motion in the upper body and helps brings back restored feeling and sensation through nerve ending stimulation.

Nutrition

Nutrition is an important part of the healing process. Your body needs the proper vitamins, minerals, and proteins to heal properly.

During your recovery, add some extra vegetables and fruits into your diet to ensure you get the nutrients your body needs.

Proteins are also important for tissue growth and healing.

If possible, add lean protein-packed meats, like chicken and fish, into your menu.

Exercise

Movement after a mastectomy is beneficial, once approved by your doctor, because it promotes blood flow for healing and helps keep your muscles and skin tissues flexible.

Once you’re able, we suggest adding some light exercise into your daily routine.

A few activities we love are walking, stretching, and yoga.

Emotional Healing

Healing after a mastectomy isn’t strictly physical.

Many women need emotional healing after such a life-changing procedure.

We recommend that you reach out to breast cancer support groups, a counselor, or life coach if you’re struggling with the very real emotional effects following a mastectomy.

Here are some tips on finding a great support group.

What has helped you heal when recovering from a mastectomy?

Comment below!

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Ask the Doctor-Which reconstruction would be right for me?

July 15, 2016 by

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

Question:  Just diagnosed with Ductal Carcinoma in Situ. 76-year-old fairly fit, in good health. Interested in mastectomy and reconstruction. Have had 4 mid-line abdominal surgeries. Suggestions on which reconstruction?

Answer: If you have no strong preferences for using your own tissue, you may be a candidate for implant reconstruction, as appears there a good chance you will not need radiation. Implants have the advantage of requiring no major operations (compared to flap surgery), and are well-tolerated by many people. Every major city has plastic surgeons who are experienced in implant reconstruction.

However, many people simply would rather use their own tissue. Fortunately, midline surgeries do not usually impact our ability to use any otherwise available abdominal tissue. We can tell with virtual certainty if adequate vessels are available with an MRI angiogram, if there is any question. If your abdominal tissue ended up not being adequate, you may have extra tissue in your buttocks which we could use.

We would be happy to call and discuss your situation in more detail, if you wish.

Thanks for your question!

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

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Finding Beauty after Breast Cancer

July 12, 2016 by

 

Chances are you’ve heard the saying, “Beauty is more than skin deep.”

It’s a phrase that we hope you take to heart; however, we know that uncontrollable life circumstances, such as a battle with breast cancer, can affect the way you view yourself.

This is especially true for women after a mastectomy.

It’s no secret that many women find it difficult to cope with the major physical changes that occur after this type of surgery.

Changes that, unfortunately, can lead to a negative body image and a decreased sense of personal beauty.

We here at The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction want to remind you that no matter what has happened in your life, you are a strong, powerful, and beautiful woman.

Beauty IS more than skin deep.

We hope you don’t ever forget the following qualities that make you beautiful both inside and out.

Personality

One of the most attractive qualities a woman can have is a fun, kind, loving, and positive personality.

Show the world how beautiful you are by the way you act, speak, and relate to others. Just be you, and your radiance will certainly shine through.

Put your positivity into action.

For the next 7 days, write down the things in your life that you’re most grateful for.

This list can include things like family, friends, pets, and hobbies. Reflect on those things every day.

Hobbies/Skills

Everyone is given special gifts and talents to share.

These gifts make you special and unlike anyone else in the universe.

It doesn’t matter if you’re a wonderful cook, a talented musician, or work well with children.

You can use these gifts to make a beautiful impact on someone else’s life.

What talents or skills have you been blessed with? List them out.

Now think about the things you’ve been able to accomplish because of those gifts.

Start a journal and write about your accomplishments on a daily basis.

It’s also fun to think about how you can impact someone else with your talents.

Can you cook someone in need a meal, help tutor a child in school, or simply be a compassionate friend to someone in need?

Write down a list of how you can use your gifts to brighten someone else’s day.

Relationships

You can always find true beauty in the relationships you build with others.

Don’t forget to look around at all of your friends and family who love and support you. They surely see beauty when they look back at you.

Quality relationships take time and effort. If you’re able to, plan time during your week to get together with the ones you love.

Go out to lunch, take a walk, or go grab coffee. If you’re unable to go out, pick up the phone, or write a handwritten thank-you card to show someone how much he or she is appreciated.

What qualities do you think makes a woman beautiful? Share them below!

Filed Under: Health and Wellness Tagged With: , , ,

Ask the Doctor- Do you perform mastectomy and reconstruction at the same time?

July 8, 2016 by

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

Question: Do you perform mastectomy and reconstruction at the same time?

Answer: We are often able to perform mastectomy and natural breast reconstruction at the same time, but not always. One thing we do not want to do is radiate a reconstruction done with your own tissue, as this can result in it shriveling up very badly. If there is a significant chance that radiation will be required as part of your breast cancer treatment, then we either defer any reconstruction until later, or put in a temporary tissue expander until radiation is completed.

Some of the reasons that you can require radiation include a larger tumor, or any lymph node involvement. Our breast cancer surgeons are quite good at predicting if radiation will be needed, and we rely on them to tell us if it is safe to do reconstruction at the same time as mastectomy.

Obviously, if you don’t have cancer, but are contemplating mastectomies for risk reduction alone, there should be no chance of needing radiation, and reconstruction can be done at the same time without any worries.

Hope this helps, please let us know if we can be of further assistance.

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

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5 Cancer-Fighting Foods

July 5, 2016 by

If you’ve had cancer, or know someone who has, you understand the importance of nurturing and protecting the body from developing this horrible disease.

While there isn’t yet a foolproof method to prevent cancer, you can make lifestyle changes to keep your body healthier.

We suggest starting with your diet and add cancer-fighting foods into your daily meal plan.

Eating these foods will not only help decrease your risk of cancer, but will also give you the energy and strength to look and feel better as you go throughout your day.

Here are 5 cancer-fighting foods that we recommend to add into your diet.

Steamed Broccoli

Broccoli is one of the most powerful foods for cancer prevention.

It has a sizable amount of sulforaphane, a particularly potent compound that boosts the body’s protective enzymes and flushes out cancer-causing chemicals.

Add steamed or raw broccoli into salads, pasta dishes, or sprinkle on top of pizza.

Blackberries

Blackberries make a sweet and delicious snack.

While all berries are packed with cancer-fighting phytonutrients, blackberries stand out because they contain very high concentrations of phytochemicals called anthocyanins.

These anthocyanins slow down the growth of premalignant cells and keep new blood vessels from forming, which could potentially feed a cancerous tumor.

Blackberries taste great picked fresh off the plant, in fruit salads, or in cobblers.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a fantastic source of lycopene.

This is what gives a tomato its red color. Lycopene has also been known to stop endometrial cancer cell growth.

Slice up a fresh tomato to munch on, add it into salads, or enjoy tomato sauce on pasta and pizza.

Garlic

Many people use garlic as a spice to flavor food.

It’s a good thing because the phytochemicals in garlic have been proven to halt the formation of nitrosamines, which are carcinogens formed in the stomach.

Garlic is delicious when used to flavor meats and veggies.

Black Beans

Black beans are in the legume family.

When you eat them, you increase the levels of the fatty acid butyrate, which in high concentrations has protective effects against cancer growth.

Use black beans as a simple side dish, or incorporate them into burritos or rice dishes.

What are your favorite cancer-fighting foods? Comment below!

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Ask the Doctor-Have there been any improvements in the shape of silicone implants in the last 13 years?

July 1, 2016 by

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

Question: Have there been any improvements in the shape of silicone implants in the last 13 years? I had my reconstruction done then and have never been able to find a bra that fits. They are too round with no “apex’, or point to fill in the front of my bra.

Answer: Thank you for your question. Yes there have been improvements made regarding breast implants over the last decade. The silicone inside is more “cohesive” which in general means the implants hold their shape better and are probably less likely to leak over time. Also the implant companies are frequently coming up with different options or sizes for patients.

If you are not satisfied with the results of your breast reconstruction I recommend you follow-up with your surgeon to discuss what bothers you and if any of the newer implants would help.

If it is not possible for you to see the surgeon who performed your surgery let me know and with more information I could give you my opinion.Thanks again.

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

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Charleston Events July 2016

June 28, 2016 by

 

Summer in Charleston might be hot, but that doesn’t stop residents and tourists alike from venturing out and attending the many Lowcountry events.

Charleston is a city that thrives on arts, events, new culinary experiences, music, and festivals. With so many things to do and see this summer—it can be overwhelming.

Not to worry. We at The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction have you covered. Check out some of our top events happening this July.

July 1, 2016

Sunset at Fort Sumter. Enjoy a sunset cruise to Charleston’s iconic harbor followed by a behind the scenes evening tour of Fort Sumter! Click here for more details.

July 3, 2016

The Class of ’83 has gone footloose in this totally tubular musical-comedy where the men are at work and the girls just wanna have fun! Get tickets to Addicted to Love. More show dates available. Click here for more details.

July 4, 2016

Celebrate the many men and women who have served our country by attending the 4th of July Blast at Patriots Point. The night will include a professional fireworks display and shoreside party with a beach music band.  Click here for more details.

July 7, 2016

Bring your furry friend and enjoy live music and drinks, while the pups get to mingle at Yappy Hour. Enjoy the band “Return of the Mac” while you enjoy a relaxing evening at James Island County Park. This is an ongoing event. Click here for more details.

July 10, 2016

Come on out and enjoy the Lowcountry Blues Brunch at the legendary Mills House Hotel. Blues singer/piano player “Shrimp City Slim” will be playing live. Click here for more details.

July 13, 2016

For baseball lovers and those who enjoy a game every once in a while, you won’t want to miss a Charleston River Dogs baseball game. Enjoy a night full of fun for the whole family. Additional game dates are available. Click here for more details.

July 17, 2016

Enjoy live jazz music while cruising around Charleston Harbor. The TenCap Jazz Combo will be playing on the Carolina Queen as you enjoy a gourmet buffet brunch. Click here for more details.

July 21, 2016

On this day, the South Carolina Aquarium has extended its hours. Enjoy exclusive hourly animal encounters and dive shows. Beer and wine will also be available for guests over 21. Click here for more details.

July 25, 2016

The best wines are the ones we drink with friends! Sign up for Mira Winery’s tastings and classes anytime through July 30. No appointment is necessary. Click here for more details.

July 26, 2016

Help the Dave Matthews Band celebrate their 25th Anniversary! Purchase tickets to the concert and enjoy an evening full of music and dancing. Click here for more details.

July 28, 2016

Get tickets to Inspector Nocule’s Murder Mystery Show. This show includes volunteer audience participation and a la carte appetizers, desserts, and drinks. Additional show dates available. Click here for more details.

What are your favorite Charleston Events? Comment Below!

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Ask the Doctor-Can I Still Have Natural Reconstruction After Implants?

June 24, 2016 by

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

Question: I had a double mastectomy and final saline implants on February 26 2016. Dr has to redo because breasts aren’t symmetrical. I have felt lousy since surgery.

After reading a forum of women experiencing side effects with implants rash fatigue, pain in shoulders arms and back.

I was wondering if I can still have natural breast reconstruction after having implants. Please let me know at your earliest convenience. Thank you

Answer: We have done natural reconstruction on hundreds of women who started with implants, so don’t despair.The easiest way to proceed would be for us to call you and 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!

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Build Confidence with Post-Mastectomy Bras

June 21, 2016 by

 

The time following a mastectomy can be both physically and mentally painful.

And while we believe that physical appearance isn’t the only factor that determines your beauty, we also know it plays a large role in your self-confidence.

Many women find purchasing a post mastectomy bra helpful for this time period – below are some things to consider when making that decision.

What Are Post-Mastectomy Bras?

Post-Mastectomy bras are specially designed for women who’ve have had a surgical removal of one or both breasts.

These post-surgery bras look and feel like normal bras, but have pockets inside the cup that hold a prosthesis in place.

They provide a very natural look and feel to anyone wearing them.

Where Can I Find Post-Mastectomy Bras?

Believe it or not, you can find post-mastectomy bras almost anywhere.

The next time you’re out shopping, stop into a JC Penney, Belk, or Soma store.

If you’re having a hard time finding them in a store near you, ask your doctor.

They should be able to direct you to the best place to find them.

What Do Post-Mastectomy Bras Cost?

Like any bra, the pricing fluctuates from store to store.

The good news is that you can typically find a quality bra without breaking the bank as many stores carry different brands at a reasonable price.

Don’t forget to check with your insurance company as well.

Most companies cover the costs of these post-surgery garments. Give them a call and see what they will cover.

Support Other Breast Cancer Patients with a Bra Fitting

You can help support other women battling breast cancer.

Every year across the country, Belk and Wacoal hold free bra fitting events.

For every person that participates, $2 is donated to Susan G. Komen for breast cancer research. Don’t miss out on this event.

Keep an eye on the website to find out when this event is coming to your location.

Have you found a post-mastectomy bra that you love? Comment below where you found it!

 

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Ask the Doctor- Is There Anything New Out There?

June 17, 2016 by

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

Question:  I’m wanting to know if there are any new options. I’ve had both breasts removed in 2013. Had another surgery to put in expanders. Got cellulitis. Had another surgery to remove infection.  There was none there. Spent a week in the hospital. Came home on a IV drip. Had expanders removed. Left me badly scarred on left side.

Doctor says he can give me something to put in a bra, but it would look good. My stomach has bad stretch marks so that skin is no good. I have plenty of fat. Just wondering if there’s anything new out there. So tired of living like this.

Answer: Thank you for your question. I am sorry you had such a difficult time with your expanders. Usually when someone has to have them removed due to infection we recommend using their own tissue instead of implants. The skin and fatty tissue from different areas of the body can be used to reconstruct a natural breast form.

Even though you have stretch marks it does not mean that the extra skin and fatty tissue cannot be used for breast reconstruction. If you don’t have enough tissue in the tummy area then perhaps another area of the body can be used.

If you would like more information let us know. I can have our staff contact you for specifics about your situation. Thanks for your question.

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

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