Posts Comments

You are here: Home / Archives for Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction

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: , ,

Ask The Doctor-Are there any surgeries being performed using stomach fat?

April 29, 2016 by

 

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

Question:  I had a double lumpectomy on my right breast 16 years ago. I also had chemo and radiation. I never had reconstruction but was willing to live with it. But over the years I think the radiation has made my breast smaller and both breasts droop now.

Are there any surgeries being performed using stomach fat and how complicated for a 66 year old would this be? I am very healthy and exercise and workout a lot.

Answer: We routinely do reconstructive surgery on patients your age and older with good results (we did a bilateral DIEP reconstruction on a 74 year old lady a few weeks ago). Your overall medical condition is much more important than your chronological age.

You are correct to think that using your own tissue is usually preferable if you have had radiation, as the success rate in this situation is much higher using your own tissue than trying to use implants. The surgery is big, but we do it routinely, and it may well be your best option.

We would be happy to have our nurse Chris or P.A. Kim call you to discuss your situation further, and I will be happy to speak with you, if you wish. Thanks for your inquiry!

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: , , , , ,

Our Favorite Komen Lowcountry Events

April 26, 2016 by

 

We at The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction are committed to our amazing patients and the organizations that support them. That’s why you can find us helping out at any number of the Komen Lowcountry events held in Charleston, SC.

We support Komen Lowcountry because the foundation creates a support system for women diagnosed with cancer and their loved ones.

Not only do these Lowcountry events raise money and awareness for the cause, but participants also have fun while supporting research and treatment initiatives.

No matter if you’re a Charleston native or you’re planning a trip to the Lowcountry, we hope you’ll attend some of the upcoming breast cancer fundraising events.

Before we give you the skinny on local fundraising opportunities, we want to remind you of the health care resources you have—before and after breast cancer.

If you’ve recently been diagnosed yourself, or you’ve beaten breast cancer, our breast reconstruction services exist to help you recover, gain confidence, and tackle your survivorship with renewed purpose.

We invite you to drop by our office for a consultation on natural breast reconstruction, or you can even ask one of our surgeons any questions you have right here.

Why we support Komen Lowcountry

When you lend your time, money, and support, you are backing a group that is dedicated to….

  • Developing new approaches to prevention, so that fewer women experience breast cancer.
  • Identifying and improving methods of early breast cancer detection, so that patients can receive proactive treatment and become a survivor.
  • Ensuring more accurate diagnoses, so that women can make the ideal health care decisions for themselves and their families.
  • Creating personalized treatments based on genetic makeup and individual needs, so that no one receives “cookie cutter” care.

The following three events are the Komen event staples in Charleston, but keep checking back, so you can see what’s new.

Race for the Cure®

The Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure® Series has an amazing claim to fame. It is the largest and most profitable fundraising and education event for breast cancer in the world today.

When you come out, you will help provide awareness and much-needed funds that benefit breast cancer patients and survivors in the Charleston community.

You don’t have to run in the race! You don’t even have to walk. Giving volunteer time and/or financial support will help save lives.

Click here for more information on The Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure® Series.

Swing for the Cure

Susan G. Komen Lowcountry’s Swing for the Cure is another fun Charleston event that supports the fight against breast cancer.  Participants play either tennis or golf to raise money for research, prevention, and treatment.

There is a cocktail reception and a silent auction, alongside an oyster roast and barbecue.

Tickets are set at $30 per individual and $50 per couple, and proceeds benefit research and prevention efforts.  You do have to register for Swing for the Cure in order to attend, and you must purchase tickets!

Snag your tickets for Swing for the Cure here.

Worship in Pink

 In May 2016, Worship in Pink happens in honor of our mothers—especially those who have been through breast cancer. Over the years, Worship in Pink has provided more than 60,000 people with resources. As a faith-based initiative, this program helps reduce disparities in rural and low-income areas.

Come out this May and help work toward the vision of a world without breast cancer.

Click here for more information.

Community Health Workshops

Susan G. Komen’s Community Health Workshops exist to educate Charleston residents and visitors on establishing a healthy lifestyle, breast health, and techniques for stronger survivorship.

Keep an eye on this page for updates on the next workshop.

Tell us what we missed! Share your favorite fundraising events in the comments below.

Filed Under: Breast Cancer Awareness Tagged With: , ,

Ask The Doctor-How Many CC Would be Needed to Achieve the Size I Want?

April 22, 2016 by

 

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

Question:  After a bilateral mastectomy in December, I am in the process of having my expanders filled. I am looking for a ‘C’ cup size when finished but I can’t equate this to the amount of ‘cc’ that need to be injected. Right now I am at about 420 cc and my doctor tells me that we are just about done.

When I look at my breast it doesn’t appear to be very large. Would you be able to tell me how many cc would be needed to achieve the size I want? Thank you.

Answer: Thank you for your question. I’m sorry to say that there is no correlation between cc’s and bra size. The best place to start is to ask your surgeon how much your mastectomies each weighed.

Grams of breast compared to cc’s of saline and then extrapolate to your bra size you were before your mastectomy. It will not be exact but will give you a ballpark figure.

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: , , , , ,

How to Find the Perfect Breast Cancer Support Group

April 19, 2016 by

 

Breast cancer support is a crucial element of the healing process. There are so many factors to think about with physical recuperation that people often forget that the emotional element is huge.

A breast cancer survivor’s body needs to heal, but so must her heart. For this reason, the surgeons and staff at the Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction recommend attending local breast cancer support groups.

While our surgeons and staff are here to lend an ear, answer questions, and alleviate concerns, a breast cancer support group provides you with an extra morale boost.

No matter what stage you’re in—whether you’ve recently received the news or you’ve beaten cancer all together—the cancer journey can be a lifelong experience.

And the Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction is prepared to stand by your side and help you emerge victorious.

We’ve listed a few Charleston-area breast cancer support groups below, but it’s important to first think about your unique needs. Some factors to consider are whether or not…

  • You’ve had surgery already.
  • You’ve not made all the health care decisions you need to.
  • You need spiritual or religious guidance.
  • You have beaten breast cancer or you’re still fighting.

All of these factors have a bearing on the breast cancer support system you choose. Our main criterion at the Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction is that support groups cater to your emotional needs as well as your education.

If you have any questions about breast cancer support, please don’t hesitate to call our office at 1-866-374-2627 or ask our surgeons your questions here.

See below for a few breast cancer support groups located in Charleston.

S.A.S.S.Y. Breast Cancer Support Group

Located at the John Wesley United Methodist Church, the S.A.S.S.Y. breast cancer support group caters especially to young women under the age of 45. In addition to the support group itself, S.A.S.S.Y. also promotes Charleston events year round.

Find out more.

Reach to Recovery

Reach To Recovery volunteers give support for people recently diagnosed with breast cancer, people facing a possible diagnosis, those interested in or who have undergone a lumpectomy or mastectomy, and those considering breast reconstruction.

Expressions of Healing

Though not unique to breast cancer, this Roper St. Francis Health Services program is a wonderful group for survivors of all cancer types. We like this support group, as it provides a creative outlet for patients, survivors, and the people who love them.

Using visual art and literature as a form of therapy, Expressions of Healing offers six weekly sessions that are held twice a year.

Click here for more information. 

Share your favorite Charleston-area breast cancer support groups in the comments below!

Filed Under: Breast Cancer Awareness, Health and Wellness Tagged With: , ,

Ask The Doctor-Is it Prudent to Remove the Expanders?

April 15, 2016 by

 

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

Question: I had bilateral nipple sparing mastectomies on 2/9/16 and developed a large necrotic area on the lower pole of my left breast. Air expanders and Alloderm were placed during the surgery and I have also developed redness over the area where the Alloderm is on my right breast. I have been on Keflex 250 mg qid since surgery and Levaquin was added yesterday, 2/26. My surgeon plans to debride the necrosis and perform a skin flap on Friday 3/4. Of course there is no staging of the area under the necrosis at this point. (It turned dusky the day after surgery.)

But I am keen to avoid two surgeries. My questions are these: In your opinion, is it prudent to remove the expanders, allow time for healing and then consider latissimus flap on the left? Under that circumstance, what options are there for healing the wound after debridement? Would closing good skin to good skin be best (I understand distortion is a given) and then flap it later? I will have to be referred for flap surgery and am trying to do diligence on who best to request for this. I am grateful for any advice you might be willing to offer.

Answer:  I’m sorry to hear that you are having a difficult time. From what I can gather from your question it sounds like you have had a difficult time with both breasts. On your left side the healing would be less complicated if you had the expander removed. On the right side if you have an infection then it is possible that the implant may have to be removed.

If the implants are removed then when you have healed you may consider using your own skin and fatty tissue instead of trying another expander. We specialize in breast reconstruction using your own fatty tissue without using implants and without sacrificing your important muscles. That includes the latissimus muscle. I suggest you ask your surgeons if you can consider that route as an option.

I’m sorry I can’t be more specific without more information from you about your situation, previous surgeries and medical history. If you would like more information I could have my office contact you for specifics. Just let me know. Thank you for your question.

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: , , , , ,

Your Charleston Vacation: Where to Stay

April 12, 2016 by

 

There is so much to do and see in Charleston, SC. From walking on the beach to checking out the nightlife, there are so many activities that will help you celebrate life and enjoy some serious unwinding time.

If you’re coming to visit the Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction, or you simply want to enjoy the Lowcountry culture, we’ve got your hotel research covered.

We’ve compiled a list of places to stay in Charleston—for both long-term stays and short visits. No matter what your budget is, or whether your prefer economy lodging or luxury suites, check out the information below to find out where to stay in the Lowcountry.

[Visitor’s Tip: As Charleston is a beach town, our city experiences high travel in the late spring and summer months, so you check hotel pricing often for price fluctuations.]

French Quarter Inn—Luxury Meets History

Charleston is labeled as a historic city—and for good reason. Take a stroll on the boardwalk, and you’ll see architecture and antebellum houses that look as if they come from archival photographs.

If old-world charm is your thing, we recommend the French Quarter Inn—a beautiful boutique hotel located in the center of historic Charleston.

Book your room here.

John Rutledge Inn—Historic Restoration at its Finest

The John Rutledge House is a landmark hotel that is not only the home of a US Constitution signer, but also a gorgeous bed and breakfast.

The incredible architectural details and period décor make you feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. This perfect restoration is phenomenal, but the staff doesn’t skimp on the luxury element or modern amenities. Stay at this B&B, and you’ll enjoy the epitome of hospitality.

Reserve your room here.

The Cottages on Charleston Harbor—Great for Extended Stays

For travelers looking to stay a week or longer, there’s no better home away from home than The Cottages on Charleston Harbor. As there are 10 luxurious harborfront cottages, space is limited, so book sooner rather than later.

Each two-bedroom, three-bath cottage is equipped with a fully functional kitchen, living room, and screened-in porch complete with rocking chairs. If that’s not enough, you’ll also enjoy a hammock and outdoor table and chairs.

Book your cottage for an extended stay.

Beachside Boutique Inn—Close to Our Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction

As always, we welcome visitors to our Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction. If you plan to visit our office—whether you’re coming in for a procedure or a consultation—we want you to enjoy convenience.

The Beachside Boutique Inn is located steps away from our office! While the location helps streamline your visit, the amenities are another benefit. At this hotel, you are close to premier restaurants and the finest shopping in Charleston.

Secure your room.

Hilton Garden Inn—An Economic Choice

Booking an economical hotel doesn’t mean skimping on the amenities. If you’re not looking for a bottle of champagne in your room every night, the Hilton Garden Inn is a fine choice.

At this location, you’re close to Harborage at the Ashley Marina and the Charleston City Marina. You’ll also enjoy an in-room refrigerator and an LCD television—ideal if you’re recovering from a procedure or simple want to veg out.

Reserve your room here.

 

If you know someone headed to the Lowcountry, send them this resource!

Filed Under: All Things Charleston Tagged With: , ,

Ask The Doctor-Can You Help Me with My Implant Trouble?

April 8, 2016 by

 

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

Question:  After twice replacing implants due to scarring, I had them removed and a subsequent breast lift. The result since Nov.4 is necrosis of the nipple and breast tissue. Surgery was performed to remove the dead tissue and I am left with open wounds that have to be dressed twice a day.

My Dr. has a wait until it heals over the next 6 months and another Dr. in Atlanta recommends a mastectomy, skin grafts from the back and expanders followed by implants. I am scared to death of more implant trouble and psychologically I can’t bear these holes and open wounds any longer. Can you help me?

Answer: I’m sorry to hear you have had such a difficult time. I cannot give you specific advise without having more information from you. If you would like to send me photos I would be glad to look at them. It is possible I could then let you know if I agree with the options you have been given.

If you need to have breast reconstruction then I agree it seems that your body does not do well with implants. There are multiple options that do not include using implants and we specialize in using skin and fatty tissue to rebuild breasts. We do this without sacrificing your body’s important muscles. If you would like more information about these techniques let me know. Thank you for your question.

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: , , , , , ,
« Previous Page
Next Page »