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Ask The Doctor-I have just undergone a nipple sparring bilateral mastectomy, and I’m concerned about the outcome. What are my options?

December 26, 2014 by

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

Question: I am a 49 year old woman, and I have just undergone a nipple sparring bilateral mastectomy with a lat flap & expanders put in. My surgery was on 10/30, so I am at 3 weeks and am having necrosis issues on one nipple and in another area near an incision. I am extremely concerned about the outcome of my results and would love to hear your opinions as to what my options might be? We were actually scheduled for a trip to Charleston in Nov for 5 days that I regretfully had to postpone due to my recent breast cancer diagnosis. Any advice you could give me would be GREATLY appreciated!

Answer: Thank you for your question. I’m sorry your having some healing problems.   I know it can be stressful. It can also seem a lot worse than it really is. It is hard to picture the end result when you are going through the healing phase. When my patients have mastectomy skin healing problems we are very conservative and let the healing progess slowly and manage the wounds carefully. Many times the end result is much better than anticipated. I would be glad to see you when your in town to give you my opinion. Just let us know. We can try to make it convenient, it sounds like you could use a nice vacation. My office can contact you to make arrangements if you like.

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

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Holiday Stress Getting to You? Here’s Our De-stressing Tips

December 23, 2014 by

8179594890_3fb4115dc8_mBetween all of the holiday shopping, decorating, parties, getting your house ready for guests, and wrapping galore, it’s easy to lose your mind during the holiday season.

As fun and exciting as this time of year can be, let’s face it…sometimes you just want to scream: “I CAN’T TAKE IT ANYMORE!”

Instead of telling you to just breathe—which might make you more stressed—we’re sharing our tips of how to keep the holiday stress from getting to you. Try these ideas to help you re-center, and remember that this season is a magical time of year to reconnect with family and friends.

Give Yoga a Try

Yoga improves your mind, benefits your body, and balances your spirit. Because yoga involves a series of poses while in a flow-like state, you strengthen your mind as you work out your body (talk about a win-win!).

Yoga benefits your mind, by teaching you how to breathe deeply and slowly. Unlike short and nervous breathing, long and controlled breaths train your brain to focus on consistent thinking. If you feel as if you’re constantly distracted, a yoga session will bring attention back to your inner thoughts. Because yoga puts you in a state of calm and control, you become more familiar with your body’s way of coping with stress. And let’s be honest, we could all use some self-centering during the holidays.

Enjoy a Spa Day

Muscles tightening up to the point where you feel “locked up” in certain positions? We know how it feels. Stress can lead to physical pain, especially in the neck and shoulders. Before the pain becomes unbearable, there’s something you can do to “reset” your body and mind: visit a spa! What’s the harm in getting treated like a King or Queen for a while? Gift yourself this season with a relaxing massage or facial!

Snuggle Up with a Mug of Hot Cocoa

On a tight budget after buying all of those holiday gifts? Sometimes curling up with a blanket and mug of hot cocoa, while watching your favorite holiday movie, can be just as good for the soul as therapy! Some of our favorites: Elf, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, and The Polar Express. Don’t forget the marshmallows!

What’s Your Favorite Part of the Holidays? Share Below:

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Ask The Doctor- What Can Be Done for Inflammation of Scar Tissue?

December 19, 2014 by

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

Question: I have chronic inflammation of scar tissue after having breast cancer surgery and reconstructed surgery. I have been in pain now for over a year. What if anything can been done to for this?

Answer: Thank you for your question. We cannot specifically give you medical advice by email because we would need more information.  You should make sure your surgeons (plastic surgeon and breast) and oncologists know you are having problems right away if you have not already.  They will be familiar with your history and can make sure you have been checked thoroughly.

We specialize in breast reconstruction and frequently help patients having problems with their reconstruction. The effects of radiation and scaring can lead to problems and pain. We help patients with implant problems by replacing their implants with their own fatty tissue. If you would like more information I would need to have my office contact you regarding your specific situation.

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

Just ask!

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Charleston Holiday Heirloom Recipes

December 16, 2014 by

This month we’ve been highlighting everything we love about our beloved Charleston. We would be remiss not to include the manybenne wafers heirloom holiday recipes we hold dear this time of year.

You won’t find a cranberry sauce recipe or an average sugar cookie on this list. We are covering our favorite holiday recipes-Charleston style.

1. She Crab Soup– Often called Charleston’s signature dish, She Crab soup is an evolution of Scottish seafood bisque. A rich-in-flavor recipe that melds succulent blue crab meat with a hearty cream soup that is finished with a dash of dry sherry, the dish dates to the early 1700s and was famously served to President Taft (1909 – 13) during his visit to Charleston. Synonymous with special occasions, She Crab soup often appears on local’s Christmas Day dinner menus.

2. The Benne Wafer– In our last blog, we mentioned how these yummy treats make the perfect unique gift. They are a delicious example of plantation era ingenuity, a recipe born of a few basic ingredients-butter, brown sugar, flour, and toasted sesame seeds. Said to invoke good luck, Benne wafers pack a crunch and make a popular holiday party host gift!

3. Historic St. Cecilia Punch-Formal balls, a revered social ritual in the Lowcountry, traditionally take place at Christmastime, when the plantation aristocracy historically arrived in town for debutante season. The custom of presenting a signature punch dates back to the 1700s. Vintage cocktails are in vogue, so why not offer a centuries-old libation to your guests this holiday season?

4. Eggnog, Peppermint Bars, Santa Mice Cookies–The Bakehouseonly uses wholesome ingredients to create delectable preservative-free treats. Peppermint takes center stage during the holidays when the bakery pulls out its favorite Christmastime recipes to produce seasonal sweets. The Santa Mice cookies are always a hit!

5. Shrimp and Grits– You didn’t think we’d forget this did you?! Shrimp and Grits is a quintessential Lowcountry recipe. Originally served as a hardy breakfast during the plantation era, contemporary interpretations of the dish are popular for both brunch and supper—and especially during festive holiday gatherings.

Do you have a favorite Charleston Heirloom Holiday Recipe? Please share it on our Facebook page!

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Ask The Doctor-I had a double mastectomy in 2008 and now wish I had implants…is it too late?

December 12, 2014 by

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

Question: I had a double mastectomy in 2008 and now wish I had had implants…is it too late?

Answer: Yes, you can have breast reconstruction 8 years after your mastectomies. I have patients who have waited 22 years. Also its up to you and your plastic surgeon which technique is best for you. That includes implants. Thank you for you question!

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

 

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Charleston Holiday Gift Guide

December 9, 2014 by

basket weaverAfter much deliberation, the team at Natural Breast Reconstruction has officially made the decision on this year’s best holiday gift to give your loved ones, friends, and colleagues.  Not just an ordinary holiday gift–a holiday gift from the Holy City.

We Charlestonians have many beloved traditions to uphold, so this was no simple task. However, we have come to a conclusion. This year’s #1 Charleston holiday gift goes to (drum roll) the Charleston Gift Basket!

This is no ordinary gift basket. This is a cornucopia of original Charleston fare and–well, let’s face it, nothing says Charleston like a handmade sweetgrass basket:

Sweetgrass Basket (price: $25- $1000) African art that was brought to Charleston by enslaved West Africans.  The sweetgrass basket was originally designed as a tool in the production and harvesting of rice and is only made in Charleston.

Other favorites that made our favorite list:

Dancin’ Goat ($12.99-$29.99)–Goats milk facial and body products from local farmer on Johns Island.  All natural, healthy, and made with love from Charleston goats.

Carolina Gold Plantation Rice (price: $13) — As early as the 1690s, rice began to grow as South Carolina’s leading export crop. The most famous variety grown was called “Carolina Gold” and is considered to be the grandfather of long grain rice in the Americas.

Benne Seed Wafers (price: $5.95) — Toasted sesame seed cookies, Benne Seed Wafers are a classic Charleston tradition brought to America from East Africa during the 17th century. A little buttery, a little sweet and a little crunchy, many think Benne’s are the perfect cookie.

American Classic Tea (price: $8.95) — Grown on Wadmalaw Island, this tea is the freshest tea you can purchase, because it’s the only tea grown here in America!

Do you have other holiday gifts unique to Charleston? Please share ideas below!

 

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Ask The Doctor-I’m having implant difficulties. Can you help?

December 5, 2014 by

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

Question: I was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer in my left breast in December of 2010. I had a lumpectomy in January 2011 followed by chemotherapy, a bilateral mastectomy and radiation. I have implants now. The right implant has dropped and the left is hard and contracted. I need help. My 36d has been replaced by 38b and the cups are too big. Please help.

Answer: I’m sorry you’re having problems with your breast reconstruction. Our practice specializes in breast reconstruction using your own tissue and preserving your body’s muscles.  Approximately 30% of our patients have already had implants and we remove them and complete their reconstruction without implants. You may already know that after radiation the chance for complications with implants increases. We have helped many women having similar problems to what you described. I would be glad to give you more specific information about your situation but I would need more information from you. I could talk to you over the phone or you could come for a consult depending on what is most convenient and where you live. Let me know.

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

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Charleston Events to Get into the Holiday Spirit

December 2, 2014 by

poinsettasThe holidays are a special time of year—there’s nothing like that indescribable magic in the air. From the Christmas lights to festive store displays, and the carolers and holiday parties to playing dreidle and lighting the menorah, there’s just a different feeling that comes with December.

To help you get into get into the holiday spirit, we’ve compiled a list of holiday events in the Charleston area to get you and your loved ones feeling jolly!

December 2-5: Winter Wonderland

This free pre-school event provides young children an opportunity to visit Santa, participate in hands-on activities, including holiday arts and crafts, and take part in live performances and music.

Here is more information on dates and times.

December 6: Christmas Festival and Parade

Looking for fun holiday family activities? The Christmas Festival is the perfect event! It includes a Holiday Market with children’s activities, craft and food vendors, and live musical performances on two stages.

The Christmas Parade begins at the corner of Montague and Mixson Avenues, proceeds down Montague, around Park Circle, and concludes at Armory Park. Immediately following the Christmas Parade, Mayor R. Keith Summey and Santa Claus will light the City’s Christmas tree located outside the front entrance of the Felix C. Davis Community Center.

Here is more information on the date and time.

December 12 & 19: Visit with the Clauses

It wouldn’t be Christmas without a visit with Mr. and Mrs. Claus! After visiting with the Clauses, enjoy live entertainment and fun holiday activities provided by community groups. A great event to create memories with your family!

For more information, visit their site.

December 14: 19th Annual Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting

Charleston is all about tradition, and this parade is a holiday favorite every year! More than 100 floats will march down Coleman Boulevard as the Mount Pleasant Christmas Light Parade sets sail to the delight of thousands of residents and visitors! The tree lighting and fireworks display begin at approximately 5:30 p.m. at Moultrie Middle School, immediately followed by the parade beginning at around 5:45 p.m. 

Here is more information on the date and time.

December 18: Men’s Shopping Night

Were you in the doghouse after last Christmas? This event provides gift counseling, personal shopping, and ideas for the special woman in your life. A great night with refreshments and Christmas shopping tailored to men!

Visit the site for more information.

 

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Ask The Doctor-What are the Reconstruction Options for an Overweight Person Who Had Radiation

November 28, 2014 by

pink flowerThis week ,Richard M. Kline, Jr., MD , of The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction answers your question.

Question: What are reconstruction options for me as an overweight person who had radiation?

Answer: Thanks for your question. Knowing only that you are overweight and have had radiation, I can only speak in generalities, but it may be of some interest to you.

 

Radiated patients are far less likely to tolerate implants than non-radiated patients, so that may mean that you could be better served by natural breast reconstruction with your own tissue. While it can be extraordinarily difficult (sometimes impossible, actually) to achieve a satisfactory delayed reconstruction with implants in a radiated patient, radiation commonly has almost no impact on our ability to reconstruct you with your own tissue, since we are bringing fresh non-radiated tissue to the area.

 

Additionally, implants are only commonly manufactured up to a volume of 800 cc. While this may seem like a lot (and actually is a lot, when used for cosmetic augmentation), it often falls far short of the volume requirements needed by a large patient for a complete reconstruction. Fortunately, there is no firm limit on how large a natural tissue flap can be transferred, except for how much tissue is available. We have in the past transferred flaps in the (1500 – 2000) cc range with success.

Of course, extra weight (also depending to some extent on how it is distributed) can bring additional risks. Extra weight brings an increased risk of blood clots (which can be fatal), and an increased risk of wound healing problems. As a very rough guideline, and, again, with the knowledge that how the fat is distributed makes some difference, we start to get concerned when the BMI exceeds 30 and approaches 35. This doesn’t necessarily mean that surgery can’t be done, just that all of an individual’s specific risk factors and options must be scrutinized very closely before making specific recommendations.

 

I hope this has been of some help. Please feel free to call or email if you would like more information.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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5 Fun Ways to Give Thanks this Season

November 25, 2014 by

scrabble saying be thankful

November is a month to reflect on everything we’re thankful for and to give back to the community.

We’d like to take a moment to express our gratitude for our inspiring patients, for our loyal blog readers, and those who keep the conversation lively on our Facebook page! Because of you, we are able to help so many women and touch lives.

As we enter a season that celebrates abundance, it’s important to remember those less fortunate.

In this post, we’re sharing 5 ways to give thanks this season (and fun doing it)!

Here are a few fun ways to give back this holiday season:

1. Make gifts instead of buying them.

The holiday season is a great time for arts and crafts. When we make gifts with our hands, something magical happens.  We get to share a part of ourselves with someone else and reflect on what we’re thankful for.

2. Give “shout-outs” on social media.

Why not spread the love on social media to make a positive impact on your followers? Share something you’re thankful for on your Facebook page, make a gratitude meme go viral—or even make your own personalized You Tube videos. Send them to friends and family members sharing why you’re so blessed to have them in your life. If you’re looking for inspiration, check out our Facebook page.

3. Do something kind for a stranger.

Add a new twist to the traditional ‘dropping change in a bucket’ donation. Try leaving a dollar with a quote attached on someone’s car or drop it in their shopping cart when they’re not looking. When it comes to giving, being silly (and a bit radical) can make giving—and receiving—both exciting and fun.

4. Donate to charity

Instead of exchanging gifts, consider donating to a charity you are passionate about in someone’s honor. Nothing inspires thankfulness like giving to others. Komen Lowcountry is one of our favorites.

5. Share compliments—lots of them.

Kind words can mean more to someone than you may know. The holidays can be a struggle for many people for various reasons. Whether it be a compliment to a stranger, acquaintance, coworker, or a loved one, spreading nice words can truly make a difference in someone’s day.

Let us know what you’re grateful for this season on our Facebook page!

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