Peak Aesthetics and Wellness

Microdermabrasion is a minimally invasive skin-exfoliation procedure designed to treat sun damage, scars, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. In addition to its cosmetic benefits, microdermabrasion helps to enhance circulation and lymph flow. Results are immediately visible, and there is no downtime for the patient, who can immediately resume regular activities. Performed in-office, microdermabrasion does not require anesthesia, and can be combined with other procedures such as chemical peels or laser treatment. Microdermabrasion is a much less invasive procedure than dermabrasion, which is used to treat more serious skin problems. Dermabrasion, in which several layers of skin are removed, is considered a surgical treatment. The Microdermabrasion Procedure During the microdermabrasion procedure, which is usually performed by an aesthetician, a handheld device is used to transmit tiny crystals of aluminum oxide across the targeted treatment area. The crystals and dead skin are then suctioned away with a vacuum tool, revealing fresh underlying skin. A treatment session can last from five to 60 minutes. The results of a single microdermabrasion treatment are temporary. For continued improvement, treatment should be repeated every 2 to 4 weeks. Risks of Microdermabrasion Microdermabrasion is considered safe for all skin types, and is appropriate for Asian and dark-skinned patients who may be at risk for skin discoloration with other types of treatment. There are no serious risks associated with microdermabrasion, although some patients experience mild redness and irritation, and patients older than 70 may have a slightly escalated risk of bruising and skin abrasions. Avoiding sun exposure after microdermabrasion is important because it may have removed some of the skin's natural protection. In patients who have a history of cold sores, undergoing microdermabrasion may reactivate the virus that causes them. In those cases, avoiding treatment around the lip area and/or taking preventative antiviral medication prior to treatment may be recommended.

Statistics suggest that hair loss affects millions of men and women in our country. If you are one of them, chances are you are looking for a solution that will meet your needs. We are proud to offer an emergent treatment that has quickly developed a proven track record of success: PRP therapy. What is PRP? PRP is platelet-rich plasma, a product that is present in the blood. Platelet-rich plasma is a nutrient-dense fluid that stimulates cellular regeneration within microenvironments like the hair follicles, joints, and also the skin. Platelets are robust cells that contain numerous growth factors, each of which is involved in certain cellular processes. Platelet-rich plasma has a long history of medicinal use related to tissue healing and regeneration. It is no surprise that this therapy has made its way into the field of hair restoration. How does PRP work for hair restoration? The primary purpose of PRP treatment for hair loss is to stimulate activity in the hair follicles. This may prompt an active phase of hair growth in follicles that have become inactive. PRP injections into the scalp may also support the active phase of newly implanted hair follicles. This occurs through the action of various growth factors. Platelets contain: Platelet-Derived Growth Factor (PDGF), which is involved in fibrin formation, blood vessel growth, and cell regeneration. Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF), involved in the formation of new blood vessels. Fibroblast Growth Factor-2 (FGF-2) is also involved in blood vessel formation, as well as the generation of specialized cells that heal and rejuvenate. Transforming Growth-Factor-Beta (TGF-b) is involved in bone metabolism in the body as well as matrix formation between cells. Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) stimulates collagen proliferation and cell growth as well as blood vessel formation. Insulin-Like Growth Factor - (IGF) provides necessary physiological regulation in nearly every cell. Behind the scenes, PRP facilitates very sophisticated responses. On the surface, PRP can provide the results you’ve been seeking. PRP Hair Restoration Treatment There are two ways in which PRP may be introduced into the hair follicles of the scalp. One technique is to perform microneedling, which creates micro wounds to superficial tissue. PRP is then applied topically where it can penetrate the scalp through the induced injuries. Within a few minutes, the microchannels begin to heal, but not before stimulating nutrients can be absorbed. An additional and popular technique for PRP hair restoration is to inject platelet-rich plasma into the scalp in the area where hair is thinning. Treatment is conducted with a topical anesthetic which numbs the superficial tissue on the head. After drawing blood, we process the vial in a centrifuge, a piece of equipment that spins the blood to separate platelets from red blood cells. Injections are then administered to the appropriate area of the scalp. The introduction of platelet-rich plasma into the area of inactive hair follicles stimulates a regenerative process intended to activate dormant growth cycles. Most patients need a series of treatments to achieve optimal results. How long do PRP injections take for hair restoration? Injection treatment begins with a brief blood draw that takes less than a minute. The second step of centrifugation takes a few minutes, during which topical numbing medication sits on the scalp. The injection aspect of treatment is meticulous – injections are positioned every half-inch across the area of thinning. As precise as this step is, it usually takes less than thirty minutes from start to finish. What Happens After the PRP Procedure? In most cases, there is zero downtime after PRP hair treatment. Because injections stimulate an inflammatory cascade through which tissue is repaired, patients are advised NOT to take any kind of anti-inflammatory medication to manage comfort. Our staff will discuss appropriate medications or strategies to minimize the discomfort that may occur after injections. How long will it take to see results? Consistency is crucial to obtain satisfactory results from PRP hair restoration. Treatments are typically scheduled monthly for a few months. Patients can expect to begin noticing improvement within two to three months. After the initial series of treatments, injections are repeated every three to six months depending on individual response and results. The initial effect that patients may notice after treatment is that they shed fewer hairs. Over time, they can expect to see an increase in thickness and length.

BOTOX® Cosmetic is a prescription drug that, when injected, temporarily paralyzes muscles. It contains a purified and safe form of botulinum toxin A, which is produced by the microbe that causes botulism. Manufactured by Allergan, Inc., it is used to treat permanent furrows and deep wrinkles in the skin that are formed by the continual contraction of facial muscles. In addition to its cosmetic applications, it is used to treat a number of medical problems, including excessive sweating, overactive bladder, neck spasms, crossed eyes, chronic back and jaw pain, and migraines. Applications for BOTOX Cosmetic Although originally approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of eye and muscle spasms, BOTOX Cosmetic was quickly recognized for its cosmetic value. Properly placed injections of BOTOX Cosmetic block nerve impulses sent to muscles, weakening them to the point where they cannot contract, and temporarily eliminating moderately severe furrows and lines. BOTOX Cosmetic is used to treat the following: Forehead furrows Frown lines Crow's feet Skin bands on the neck According to Allergan, BOTOX Cosmetic has been "extensively researched, with approximately 2500 studies." BOTOX Cosmetic Procedure and Results Using a very fine needle, BOTOX Cosmetic is injected directly into facial muscles that are causing furrows and lines. Receiving the injections requires no anesthetic, but some doctors choose to numb the area to be injected with ice packs or a topical anesthetic cream. Results can usually be seen within a few days of treatment, and typically last up to four months, although areas that are treated on a regular basis may retain results longer. Injections should be given only by qualified medical professionals. Side Effects of BOTOX Cosmetic Injection-site side effects of BOTOX Cosmetic are usually mild and temporary, and include the following: Pain Infection Inflammation Tenderness Swelling Redness Bleeding Bruising Normal activities may be resumed immediately after receiving injections.

JUVÉDERM® XC injectable gel is a U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved dermal filler that, according to its manufacturer, Allergan, Inc., is designed to "temporarily treat moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds such as nasolabial folds" in people older than 21. Unlike the original JUVÉDERM injectable gel, JUVÉDERM XC is infused with lidocaine to make its injection more comfortable. JUVÉDERM XC is a smooth-consistency gel that restores volume to the skin, and smooths away moderate-to-severe facial wrinkles and folds. It is made of hyaluronic acid (HA), a sugar that occurs naturally in the body. In terms of the skin, HA's role is to deliver nutrients and hydration, and act as a cushioning agent. Young, healthy skin contains a lot of HA, but factors that include aging and sun exposure reduce the amount, causing skin to lose structure and volume. JUVÉDERM XC is most effective in improving the appearance of nasolabial folds, the lines that run from the bottom of the nose to the corner of the mouth on both sides of the face. JUVÉDERM XC Injectable Gel Procedure JUVÉDERM XC injections take about 15 minutes to administer in a doctor's office. A fine needle is used for the injection, which is given under the skin in the targeted area to add volume or fill in wrinkles and folds. Because JUVÉDERM XC contains lidocaine to improve comfort, an anesthetic may not be needed. However, a doctor may still elect to use a topical anesthetic on the area to be treated before giving the injection. Afterword, the doctor may gently massage the treated area(s). Once treatment is completed, patients can return, with virtually no downtime, to their regular activities. For the first 24 hours after treatment, to reduce the risk of complications, patients should avoid strenuous exercise, excessive sun or heat exposure, and alcohol consumption. Results of JUVÉDERM XC Injectable Gel The results of JUVÉDERM XC are visible immediately after injection; any swelling and bruising, to which ice can be applied, should subside during the next few days. Results can last 6 to 9 months, and, in some cases, up to year. However, according to its manufacturer, "Results from injectable dermal filler vary and correction is temporary. Supplemental 'touch up' treatments may be required to achieve and maintain optimal correction of . . . wrinkles and folds." Risks of JUVÉDERM XC Injectable Gel Although JUVÉDERM XC is considered safe, there is a risk of side effects. They are usually limited to the injection site, and include the following: Redness Pain or tenderness Firmness Swelling Lumps or bumps Bruising Itching Discoloration Infection For customized treatment, Allergan, Inc., offers two types of JUVÉDERM XC: JUVÉDERM Ultra XC, which is suitable for superficial facial lines and folds, and JUVÉDERM Ultra Plus XC, a stronger formulation that is used for deeper facial folds and lines. JUVÉDERM XC is the first HA filler that is FDA-approved for use on people of color.

Intense pulse light or IPL is a laser treatment that is used to treat skin conditions and remove signs of photoaging like uneven texture, spots, and wrinkles. As one of the most popular non-invasive treatment options out there, it’s no wonder that more and more patients keep coming back for more. How Many IPL Treatments Will I Need? Depending on your skin type and your concerns, we usually recommend that patients undergo a series of five treatments that are spaced about four weeks apart. In some instances, we may recommend some additional sessions but we will go over all of that in detail during your initial consultation. How Long Does Each Session Take? On average, each session takes about 20-30 minutes but that can vary from patient to patient. Is IPL Right For Me? The best way for you to determine whether or not IPL is right for you is by scheduling a consultation with our office. During your consultation we will go over your skin concerns and discuss the different treatment options that you have available to you including IPL. Does IPL Work On All Skin Types? Lighter skinned people who don’t use self-tanning products or who do not have a history of excessive tanning respond better to IPL than other patients. However, we will be able to give you a more definitive answer during your consultation. How Does IPL Work? IPL works in a similar way that laser works. But how? Like with laser, IPL uses energy that is absorbed into the targeted cells in the skin that have pigmentation. Specifically, when the light energy comes in contact with the skin, it turns into heat energy which causes damage to specific areas of the skin like sun spots or age spots. Once these areas are heated up, the skin responds by creating newer healthier skin in the process. What Can IPL Treat? One of the many unique benefits of IPL is that it can be used to treat a variety of different skin concerns including: Rosacea Facial flushing Red chests and necks Brown spots Sun damage Enlarged pores Spider veins What Is Recovery Like? Typically, patients can go right back to their normal activities including wearing makeup and exercising. We do, however, encourage patients to avoid any sun exposure because it may cause unwanted pigmentation. Are There Side Effects of IPL? Usually there are no side effects of IPL but some patients may appear to have a sunburn for a few hours after treatment. Other rare side effects of IPL include blistering, unwanted changes in pigmentation, scarring, swelling, and infection. Is IPL Expensive Depending on the provider that you end up going with, it will determine how expensive it is going to be. Overall, IPL is more affordable than other treatments. To learn more about IPL and whether or not it’s a good treatment for you, schedule a consultation appointment at our office today and we will get you taken care of.

Laser hair removal is a cosmetic procedure that uses pulsed laser energy to remove unwanted hair from a targeted area, while leaving surrounding skin unharmed. Common areas on which laser hair removal is performed are the chin, upper lip, chest, underarms, back, bikini line and legs. Although there are many temporary treatments, including tweezing, shaving, using depilatory creams and waxing, to remove unwanted hair, patients seeking more permanent and less irritating/painful methods are frequently good candidates for laser hair removal. Through what is a safe and usually painless procedure, hair can be removed from nearly any area of the body (the eye area is an exception because of the possibility of serious eye damage). Candidates for Laser Hair Removal Because the laser beams used to remove hair target its melanin (pigment), the best candidates have dark hair and light skin. Conversely, those with blond, red, gray or white hair and dark skin are usually not good candidates. Recent technological advances have made laser hair removal for those with dark skin more successful, while techniques for using lasers to effectively remove light-colored hair are being investigated. Benefits of Laser Hair Removal There are many benefits to having unwanted hair removed through the use of laser therapy. They include the following: Hair is precisely targeted Procedure is quick Results are permanent (for 90 percent of patients) or long-lasting For many patients, laser hair removal is painless, although some experience minor discomfort, usually described as something like a rubber band's snapping against the skin. Laser Hair Removal Procedure There are many benefits to having unwanted hair removed through the use of laser therapy. They include the following: Hair is precisely targeted Procedure is quick Results are permanent (for 90 percent of patients) or long-lasting For many patients, laser hair removal is painless, although some experience minor discomfort, usually described as something like a rubber band's snapping against the skin. Recovery from Laser Hair Removal Some redness, soreness or swelling may occur immediately after laser hair removal, but they almost always disappear within a few days. Cold compresses or ice packs, moisturizers, and anti-inflammatory creams may minimize discomfort. Sun exposure should be avoided as much as possible for some period of time. Complications of Laser Hair Removal The most common complication of laser hair removal is the regrowth of the unwanted hair. Frequently, however, the hair that regrows is finer and lighter than the hair that was removed. Usually, regrowth can be addressed with a few additional treatment sessions. Other complications that may arise after laser hair treatment include skin irritation such as blistering and crusting; changes in pigmentation or texture of the skin; and scarring at the removal site.

Modern technology provides a variety of successful laser resurfacing treatments for improving the condition of the skin. Laser skin treatments employ focused beams of light energy to counteract the effects on the skin of acne, aging, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, scars, or poor nutrition. Resurfacing laser treatments are safe and efficient, requiring little downtime to provide effective results. Much less invasive than dermabrasion and chemical peels, laser treatments remove damaged skin and rejuvenate the patient's appearance. Most of the time, such treatments are sought for the face, but may also be performed on other parts of the body. Reasons for Laser Resurfacing Patients seek laser resurfacing for a variety of reasons, all related to discontent with their appearance. Laser resurfacing may be performed for any of the following reasons: To decrease or eliminate wrinkles or stretchmarks To diminish the appearance of scars To rejuvenate non-responsive skin after a facelift To remove age spots or spider veins To repair sun-damaged skin To improve skin tone due to melasma or other causes To remove warts or birthmarks To decrease the size of enlarged pores To remove tattoos Types of Laser Resurfacing There are two basic types of laser resurfacing treatments: ablative and non-ablative. Ablative Laser Resurfacing Ablative laser treatments, which penetrate more deeply, actually cause a wound, since they remove a layer of skin. Since ablative resurfacing actually vaporizes a layer of the skin, it provides more dramatic results and requires fewer sessions, but also requires a longer period of healing. Non-Ablative Resurfacing Non-ablative treatments do not burn away skin tissue, but use laser energy to stimulate collagen growth and tighten underlying skin. Non-ablative resurfacing is gentler than ablative and requires less downtime, but may necessitate more treatment sessions and may yield less dramatic results. In general, non-ablative laser treatments are used when the repair needed is less extensive. Also, non-ablative treatments are recommended for people of color for whom ablative resurfacing may be more likely to cause unsightly changes in pigmentation. A form of ablative resurfacing known as fractional ablative laser is now increasingly in use. This procedure targets more specific regions so that laser microbeams pinpoint and peel away smaller areas of skin. During fractional laser surfacing, no visible wounds are caused, so, although results are more noticeable, less downtime is necessary than after conventional ablative treatments. For some individuals, fractional ablative laser resurfacing represents the best of both worlds. The Laser Resurfacing Procedure Laser treatments for skin conditions are typically performed in the doctor's office with topical anesthesia. Procedures typically take between 30 and 90 minutes to perform, depending on the size and location of the treated area. While some individuals will notice significant results after just one treatment, particularly with ablative procedures, many patients will require multiple sessions in order to achieve the desired results. It is also possible that additional touch-up treatments will be needed at a future date. Risks of Laser Resurfacing Although laser skin treatment is considered safe for most patients and is typically performed with no long-term complications, there are certain risks associated with any type of medical procedure. While considered rare, risks may include: Infection Scarring Redness Pigmentation changes Acne Milia, tiny white bumps on the skin Recovery from Laser Resurfacing Recovery from laser resurfacing procedures varies according to the particular procedure undergone and the individual patient's skin type. In all cases, however, patients who have undergone these treatments should avoid sun exposure wherever possible. Recovery from Non-ablative Laser Resurfacing After treatment, patients may experience redness and peeling at the treated site as the skin heals. The duration of these side effects varies, but is commonly several days. Ice packs may ease discomfort and improve appearance. Normal activities can be resumed during healing, and makeup may be applied to camouflage any unwanted, evidence of treatment.

Chemical peels remove damaged outer layers of skin to make skin smoother, reduce scarring and remove blemishes. Ranging from mild to strong, there are three types of chemical peels: alphahydroxy acid (AHA), trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and phenol. The strength of each peel is tailored to the patient. Peels can be combined with other procedures, such as facelifts, for additional improvement to skin. Chemical peels may be covered by insurance if they are performed for medical rather than cosmetic reasons. Chemical peels are performed in a plastic surgeon's or dermatologist's office, or an outpatient surgical center. Anesthesia is not required because TCA and phenol have anesthetic properties, and AHA produces only a slight stinging. Chemical Peel Procedure During a TCA or phenol peel, the skin is cleansed and the solution is applied, which may cause a brief stinging sensation. Petroleum jelly or a waterproof adhesive tape may be put on the skin following a phenol peel. During an AHA peel, the skin is cleansed and the solution applied; there is no need for post-peel ointment or covering. Side Effects of Chemical Peels A phenol or TCA peel can result in tingling or throbbing, reddened skin, a crust or scab, and significant swelling that lasts, depending on the strength of the peel used, about a week. With a phenol peel, eyes may be swollen shut at first, and the patient may be put on a liquid diet and advised to keep talking to a minimum. Any tape used is removed after a day or two. AHA peels can cause temporary stinging, redness and irritation, as well as flaking or crusting. After a chemical peel, it is essential that the skin be protected from the sun.

It used to be that the only way to get all kinds of results for your skin was to undergo a variety of different procedures. However, the HydraFacial has changed the way that the cosmetic industry works by combining the ability to cleanse, exfoliate, extract, hydrate, and replenish the skin’s antioxidants with just one procedure. What Is a HydraFacial Good For? HydraFacial’s aren’t just a nice way to schedule a day for yourself at the spa. In fact, HydraFacial’s are good at treating patients who want to have fresh glowing skin, get rid of acne, improve tone and texture, and just look good for either every day or right before a big event. Who is a Candidate For a HydraFacial Treatment? One of the best things about the HydraFacial is that it’s designed for patients with all skin types. So, if you have dry skin, oily skin, or regular skin, then the HydraFacial is good for you. What Can I Expect From the HydraFacial Treatment? Unlike chemical peels or laser treatments that come with a little bit of pain and discomfort, one of the unique benefits of HydraFacial’s is that they are pain free and actually quite relaxing. So, during your HydraFacial appointment, you can literally sit back and relax. The HydraFacial treatment goes as follows: Step 1.Cleansing and Exfoliation. Dead skin cells are removed to reveal healthy new skin. Step 2. The skin is infused with a glycolic solution to help purify the skin Step 3. Blackheads will be removed and pores will be cleaned with an automated extraction device that uses vortex suction. Step 4. Antioxidants and Hyaluronic Acid are infused to nourish and protect the skin. How Often Should I Get a HydraFacial? Until you start seeing consistent results, you should come in to our office and get a HydraFacial every two weeks. Then, afterward, you can come in around every month. Are There any Side Effects or Downtime After the Facial? No! Unlike other treatments. there is no recovery or downtime after a HydraFacial which means that you don’t have to worry about any recovery. Can I Receive a HydraFacial if I'm Pregnant? Unfortunately, because HydraFacial’s use antioxidants and hyaluronic acid to nourish the skin, they are not safe for women who are pregnant or nursing. Can a HydraFacial be Combined With Other Treatments? It depends on the types of treatments that you want to combine with your HydraFacial. During your initial consultation, you and your skin care professional will create a customized skin care plan that’s designed for you and your skin type. Are you ready to learn more about the unique benefits of HydraFacial’s or are you just ready to sit back and relax while getting cleaner, healthier skin? If so, contact our office today and schedule your HydraFacial consultation at our office!

The inevitability of age is that cells and systems in the body degenerate. This degenerative process leads to a variety of ailments, most often causing persistent pain, stiffness and limited range of motion. By regenerating and in some cases replacing damaged cells, organs and tissues, pain and injury can be reversed to a degree. Regenerative medicine encompasses those efforts to rescue or replace damaged, diseased or dead tissue in the body. Aside from the changes that accompany aging, regenerative medicine can also be applied to the treatment of sports injuries, chronic pain, joint pain, hormonal imbalance and many other issues. An experienced regenerative medicine professional works with you to develop an effective plan to restore well-being using your body’s natural ability to stimulate healing. Types of Regenerative Medicine Regenerative medicine is a broad term covering a range of treatments. Hallmark therapies include: Stem Cell Therapy Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) IV Therapy Tissue Engineering Prolotherapy Exosomes Anti-Aging Treatments These treatments meet a wide range of needs and alleviate various symptoms. You can live a pain-free, more active life in most cases. While the use of stem cells is what most people associate with this field, there are actually many areas of study and clinical application. Other aspects of regenerative medicine involve organ and tissue transplants, scaffolding, devices and biomaterials. Regenerative Medicine Questions Regenerative medicine focuses on obtaining, developing and delivering cells in order to restore or repair the normal functioning of body systems. What does regenerative medicine mean? You deserve clear answers about your treatment options. Contact us to get the full details on our services. What can regenerative medicine be used for? This branch of medicine has many applications, including the treatment of: Knee pain Back pain Neck pain Shoulder pain Sports injuries Arthritis Elbow pain Ankle pain Wrist and hand pain Hip pain Foot pain Toe pain and numbness This list is not exhaustive. During a consultation, you can find out whether the ailment, injury or illness can be addressed with these types of interventions. How effective is regenerative medicine? Regenerative medicine is effective for certain people experiencing certain ailments or diseases. Because there are so many therapies within regenerative medicine, the effectiveness of each branch has its own factors. Your regenerative medicine provider will discuss the studied effectiveness, risks and benefits with you as part of your consultation. Are stem cells used in regenerative medicine? Yes, stem cells are an important part of regenerative medicine. Many people use the phrases interchangeably, and stem cells are the most common association with the term “regenerative medicine.” In fact, stem cells are just one of the very exciting areas in this field of research and clinical practice. What are the benefits of regenerative medicine? This branch of medicine has many promising benefits as well as observed benefits: Reduces pain Enhances healing Jumpstarts the process of regeneration Increases collagen production, which in turn strengthens tissues May make it possible to avoid surgery and/or pharmaceutical drugs Harnesses the power of your body’s ability to heal and repair itself Focuses on the root cause of an ailment, not the symptoms alone May provide relief that you have not been able to achieve with other treatments Consulting an experienced provider is the only way to know if it will be beneficial for you specifically. Who is a good candidate? You may be a good candidate for regenerative medicine if any of the following apply: Seeking an alternative to joint surgery or joint replacement Tendon or ligament injuries Joint pain Arthritis Pain in the hips, knees, shoulders, wrists, elbows, fingers, toes, neck or back Spinal pain ACL/MCL tears Rotator cuff injury Meniscus tear Temporomandibular joint disorder Headaches caused by neck pain Limited range of motion in any of your joints In a consultation or over the phone, we can better determine your candidacy. Regenerative medicine can be a great way to address pain or degenerative diseases. Schedule a Regenerative Medicine Consultation The next step in the process is scheduling your consultation with an experienced regenerative medicine provider. After listening to your concerns and reviewing your medical history, all therapeutic options will be reviewed with you.

Your hormones play an important role in how you feel each day. These so-called “messengers” of the body regulate many different functions and processes, including those related to sleep, metabolism and reproduction. As you age, or as a result of certain health conditions, hormone levels decrease. Especially important are the levels of testosterone, estrogen and progesterone. They have a big impact on how you feel. The right balance of hormones keeps you feeling energetic and active. Hormonal decline leads to a wide array of undesirable outcomes: sleeplessness, fatigue, foggy thinking, low energy, weight gain and loss of lean muscle. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) restores the levels in order to improve the way you feel and to reduce the negative effects of hormone decline. What are Bioidentical Hormones? Regenerative medicine practitioners most often utilize bioidentical hormones in their treatment protocols, as differentiated from other synthetic hormones. The differences come down to how they are made, what they are made with and their molecular structure. Bioidentical hormones are manufactured in a lab to be identical to naturally occurring hormones, which is why they are favored by regenerative medicine practitioners. They are most often sourced from plants. What do Bioidentical Hormones do? Your doctor may recommend hormone replacement therapy as a way to alleviate: Lack of energy Poor sleep Decreased libido Lack of interest in sex Lack of interest in your favorite activities Weight gain or weight fluctuations Loss of muscle mass Difficulty concentrating Vaginal dryness Hot flashes High cholesterol High risk of heart disease Loss of bone density Thinning hair Once your baseline has been established through blood testing, we will be able to determine whether you can benefit from hormonal replenishment. Hormones may be administered in pill form, as a gel or cream, or as an implanted pellet. The dose is based on the symptoms you are seeking to alleviate, as well as your age and health history. Follow-up discussions are very important to monitor how the dose is working or not working for you. Will I Have to Stop Hormone Replacement Therapy at a Certain Age? Not necessarily. There is not a predetermined age at which it is no longer safe. Instead, your health will need to be carefully evaluated to make sure you are still a good candidate. As a person ages, they may be more likely to have the risk factors that increase the side effects possible with HRT. Are Bioidentical Hormones Only for Women? Absolutely not. Men and women alike can benefit from HRT because both men and women experience hormonal imbalance and hormone decline. Oftentimes bioidentical hormones are offered as a remedy for certain changes caused by menopause, but post-menopausal women are only one group of many that can benefit. Get Started on the HRT Process In some situations, stem cell therapy can be combined with bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. But it also often makes sense to perform HRT as a standalone treatment. Schedule a consultation to find out what’s right for you.