Posted on February 7, 2024 by Sabrina Brown

Is Medical Weight Loss Right for Me?

Flying Horse Medical Center | Colorado Springs & Monument | Concierge Medicine, Plastic Surgery, Aesthetics, Psychiatry

Is Medical Weight Loss Right for Me?

Weight loss New Year’s resolutions are incredibly common and often rank among the top resolutions people make as they usher in a new year. It’s not uncommon for individuals to see the start of a new year as an opportunity for a fresh beginning and a chance to make positive changes in their lives, and improving one’s health and fitness is a prevalent goal.

Embarking on a weight loss journey is a significant decision that requires careful consideration and personalized strategies. With various options available, it’s crucial to understand whether medical weight loss is the right choice for you. The team at Flying Horse Medical Center recognizes the importance of informed decisions and aims to provide insights into determining if medical weight loss aligns with your health goals.

What is Medical Weight Loss?

Medical weight loss is a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to weight management, supervised and guided by healthcare professionals. This approach is personalized to your unique health needs, unlike DIY strategies and commercial weight loss programs.

Key components of medical weight loss programs include:

Thorough medical assessment
Customized treatment plan
Nutritional guidance
Behavioral counseling
Medical monitoring
Prescription medications
Support and accountability

Indicators that Medical Weight Loss Might be Right for You

Medical weight loss programs are especially beneficial for individuals with:

BMI and Health Risks

If your body mass index, or BMI, falls into the overweight/obese category, you may be at an increased risk of a variety of health concerns including sleep apnea, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and more. Medical weight loss programs offer targeted interventions to address these health risks.

Failed Attempts with Traditional Methods

If you have struggled to achieve lasting results through traditional diet/exercise methods, medical weight loss can offer a more effective, sustainable solution. The team at Flying Horse Medical Center can analyze your unique circumstances to create a personalized plan that considers your medical and family history, metabolism, and lifestyle.

Underlying Health Conditions

Certain medical conditions such as hormonal imbalances or thyroid disorders can cause/contribute to weight gain and reduce the effectiveness of traditional weight loss methods. If you believe you may have an underlying health issue that is preventing you from losing weight, consulting with our medical experts can help you identify and address these issues with a targeted medical weight loss approach.

Need for Accountability and Support

Some individuals find it challenging to commit to lifestyle changes without proper guidance and support. Medical weight loss programs include regular check-ins with your healthcare team. This creates accountability and provides encouragement throughout your weight loss journey.

Time Constraints/Lifestyle Demands

Medical weight loss programs can be tailored to accommodate time constraints and busy lifestyles. Our team can design a realistic plan that fits seamlessly into your daily routine, ensuring your long-term success.

Ready to Begin Your Medical Weight Loss Journey?

If you resonate with any of the indicators discussed above, medical weight loss could be a viable approach to achieving your weight loss goals. Schedule your consultation with the team at Flying Horse Medical Center today to explore a personalized approach that considers your personal and family medical history, lifestyle, aspirations, and more. We can work together to pave the way for a healthier, happier you.

Posted on January 16, 2024January 16, 2024 by Sabrina Brown

Reduce and Eliminate Facial Imperfections

Facial imperfections, whether they be acne, dark spots, fine lines, or uneven skin tone, can affect our confidence and well-being. Achieving clear and flawless skin requires an approach that combines proper skincare, lifestyle adjustments, and sometimes professional interventions.

Flying Horse Medical Center in Colorado Springs offers aesthetic services to help you reduce and possibly eliminate your facial imperfections. However, there are some things you can do at home to help promote a healthy, radiant complexion.

12 Tips to Improve you Complexion

There are several things you can do at home to improve the appearance of your skin. If needed, professional services are available at Flying Horse Medical Center:

Establish a Consistent Skincare Routine

A crucial foundation for improving skin health is a consistent and personalized skincare routine. This should include gentle cleansing to remove impurities, moisturizing to keep the skin hydrated, and sun protection to prevent damage from harmful UV rays.

Choose the Right Products

Select skincare products tailored to your skin type and concerns. Ingredients like retinoids, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and alpha hydroxy acids can be beneficial for addressing various imperfections. Experiment cautiously, introducing one new product at a time to monitor how your skin responds.

Sunscreen Is Non-Negotiable

Sun damage is a significant contributor to facial imperfections and premature aging. Even on cloudy days, it’s important to use sunscreen with SPF 30+. This simple step can go a long way in preventing dark spots, wrinkles, and other sun-related issues.

Maintain a Healthy Diet

A balanced and nutrient-rich diet that includes fruits, veggies, lean proteins, and whole grains can positively impact your skin. Antioxidant-rich foods can help combat free radicals, supporting your skin’s natural defenses.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking an adequate amount of water is crucial for overall health and can contribute to plump, hydrated skin.

Regular Exercise

Exercise improves blood flow, which delivers oxygen and other essential nutrients to the skin cells. Additionally, it helps flush out toxins, which improves skin complexion.

Avoid Harmful Habits

Quit smoking, as it accelerates the aging process and can lead to a dull, uneven skin tone. Limit alcohol consumption, which can dehydrate the skin and contribute to inflammation.

Prioritize Quality Sleep

Sleep is critical for skin repair and regeneration. Lack of sleep can lead to increased stress levels and exacerbate facial imperfections.

Gentle Exfoliation

Regular but gentle exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, promoting a smoother texture. Avoid aggressive exfoliation, as it can irritate the skin and worsen imperfections.

Topical Treatments

Explore skincare products with active ingredients that target specific concerns. Retinoids are effective for combating fine lines, while vitamin C can brighten dark spots.

Stress Management

Chronic stress can contribute to skin issues. Consider practicing stress management activities including deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.

Professional Treatments

For persistent issues, consider professional treatments such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or laser therapy. Dermatologists can provide expert advice and customize treatments based on your individual needs.

Consider Flying Horse Medical Center Aesthetic Services to Reduce Facial Imperfections

Achieving a flawless complexion involves a multifaceted approach that combines daily skincare habits, a healthy lifestyle, and, when necessary, professional guidance. If professional intervention is needed, schedule your appointment with the aesthetic professionals at Flying Horse Medical Center.

By adopting these practices into your routine, you can make significant progress toward reducing and eliminating facial imperfections, revealing the radiant and confident version of yourself. Remember, consistency is key, and results may take time, so be patient and celebrate the progress along the way.

Posted on November 8, 2023November 8, 2023 by Sabrina Brown

Common Health Concerns for Men

Most men don’t give much thought to their health. Instead, they focus on their families, careers, and other responsibilities. However, the team at Flying Horse Medical Center in Colorado Springs & Monument believe your health should be your top priority; if you’re not taking care of yourself, you won’t be able to take care of the other things in your life.

We believe that it’s important to understand the most common health concerns for men and the screenings/tests that can diagnose these concerns so that you can get treated early. In this article, we’ll outline the top health concerns and testing for men.

Top 13 Health Concerns & Tests

When it comes to men’s health, there are several concerns that could be serious and should be monitored regularly, including:

Heart Health

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease is the leading cause of death for men. The top risk factors include smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure.

Testing for heart health includes:

Blood pressure measurement to identify and control hypertension
Blood tests to measure cholesterol levels
EKG or ECG to check for abnormal heart rhythms and other heart issues
Stress tests to assess heart health, especially in high-risk patients

Prostate Health

Prostate issues, including cancer, are a significant concern for men.

Testing for prostate health includes:

PSA blood test to measure the level of PSA, or prostate-specific antigen, in the blood
Physical exam know as a digital rectal examination to check for abnormalities

Colon Health

The chance of a male developing colon cancer is 1 in 22. This is the second leading cause of death from cancer in males.

Testing for colon health includes:

Stool sample test, known as fecal occult blood test, to detect blood in the colon
Flexible sigmoidoscopy to examine the lower part of the colon
Colonoscopy is recommended for patients around the age of 45 and is the gold standard for detecting colon cancer

Lung Health

Respiratory diseases, including lung cancer, are common among men.

Testing for lung health includes:

Pulmonary function testing to evaluate lung function
Chest x-rays and/or CT scans for patients with risk factors

Bone Health

Most people believe that osteoporosis and bone health are concerns for women- but these issues are just as common among men.

Testing for bone health includes:

DEXA, or bone density, scan to measure bone density and assess fracture risk

Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is common in male patients.

Testing for diabetes includes:

Fasting blood test to measure glucose levels following an overnight fast
OGTT, or oral glucose tolerance test, to measure how the body processes glucose
A1c test to get an overall picture of blood sugar levels over the previous months

Testicular Health

Testicular cancer is common in middle-aged and younger men.

Testing for testicular health includes:

Regular self-exams to detect abnormalities

Sexual Health

Sexual health issues including erectile dysfunction, ejaculation issues including premature ejaculation or delayed ejaculation, low libido, and more can affect men. This also includes being aware of sexually transmitted infections.

Testing depends on your specific concern. If STIs are a concern, regular testing should be done. Discuss your concerns with your medical provider to learn more about your options.

Mental Health

Men experience a variety of mental health concerns including anxiety and depression. If you are experiencing signs and symptoms of mental health issues, consult your healthcare provider to find out the best treatment options.

Skin Health

Skin cancer is common in men, especially those who are exposed to the sun on a regular or prolonged period.

The primary testing for skin cancer is self-exams. If you notice changes, a dermatologist can diagnose and treat any issues.

Vision/Eye Health

Vision and eye health concerns can happen at any time.

Testing for eye health and vision concerns includes annual eye exams, especially if you already wear glasses and/or contacts.

Dental Health

Oral health, including gum disease, can have an impact on your overall health. The American Dental Association recommends that patients visit the dentist every 6 months for an exam and cleaning to maintain oral health.

Schedule Your Men’s Health Visit with Flying Horse Medical Center

The best way to take control of your health is to be proactive. Regular check-ups and testing can identify issues early so they can be treated. There are several things that can have a positive impact on your overall health and well-being including testing, adopting a healthy lifestyle, stress management, a balanced diet, and regular exercise. Schedule your men’s health visit with Flying Horse Medical Center in Colorado Springs & Monument.

Posted on October 25, 2023September 28, 2023 by Sabrina Brown

10 Reasons to Remove Your Breast Implants

Dr. Millicent Geers

Breast implant removal, also known as breast implant explantation, is becoming more and more common. The reasons for breast implant removal vary.

Below are the top 10 reasons why women are having their breast implants removed.

Weight gain

With weight gain, implants that were once the “perfect” size may now be disproportionate, cumbersome, and not aesthetically pleasing to you due to added weight in the breast area. Removal of your breast implants may take you to a look that is more comfortable to carry and more aesthetically-pleasing to you.

Too big

I have had many women come to me stating that from the get-go, their implants were too big, despite having discussed with their prior Plastic Surgeon that they didn’t want big implants. The most common reason for this is that their prior Plastic Surgeon believed the patient was going to have “I-went-too-small-regret.” In this case, implant explantation can help you take back control over your body.

Implant rupture

If your implants are ruptured, your breasts may become asymmetric in appearance. Removal of the implants can restore symmetry.

Capsular contracture

Capsular contracture can cause breast asymmetry. Capsular contracture squeezes the implant, making it look high and tight on your chest when compared to your other side. Removal of the implants, with or without capsulectomy (capsule removal) can restore symmetry.

Pain or discomfort

Neck, back, shoulder, or breast pain may be caused by implants. Removal of the implants may possibly alleviate this pain if this pain is not due to other reasons.

Animation deformation

If your implants were placed under the muscle, which is where they are placed the majority of the time with implant breast augmentation, you will notice movement of your implants whenever you engage your pectoralis muscles. This movement is bothersome for some women. Moving your implants to a pocket over your muscle or just removing them all together alleviates animation deformity.,

Breast Implant Illness Concerns

No current symptoms, but you are concerned about the possibility of Breast Implant Illness (BII), also known as Autoimmune Syndrome Induced by Adjuvants (ASIA): BIA or ASIA is an autoimmune syndrome caused by an “adjuvant.” This adjuvant can be a flu, a vaccine, or in the case of plastic surgery, a breast implant. The thought is that an event occurs which hypersensitizes your body, so it overreacts, causing the autoimmune issues. Manifestations may be fatigue, joint pain, muscle aches, and brain fog/cognitive impairment.

Already have symptoms such as brain fog, joint pain, fatigue and your doctor has ruled out Rheumatoid Arthritis, Multiple Sclerosis, or other autoimmune diseases, removal of your breast implants may decrease or alleviate your symptoms. It is important to note that removal of your breast implants does not guarantee improvement of symptoms.

You no longer like the idea of having a foreign body in your body

Sometimes women simply decide that they no longer want a foreign body in their body. Explant surgery achieves this goal.

You no longer have a desire for breast implants

Some women are just over having implants. They want to return to a non-implanted state for no reason other than they just want to – and this is reason enough.

If you are considering implant removal, for whatever reason, Dr. Millicent Geers performs this procedure on a regular basis with beautiful results. Dr. Geers will tailor the surgical plan according to your needs – sometimes implant removal alone is enough. However, for some patients, explant surgery may need to be combined with a breast lift (mastopexy) and/or fat transfer (natural breast augmentation) to achieve a result that will meet the patient’s aesthetic goals. Call 719-633-5255 for your personalized consult with Dr. Geers.

Posted on October 10, 2023September 27, 2023 by Sabrina Brown

What to Know About Mammograms

The National Breast Cancer Foundation estimates that 1 out of 8 women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. Although that figure sounds scary, there is hope. When caught in its early stages, there is a 99% survival rate from breast cancer. Being aware of this disease empowers you to make an informed decision about your healthcare. Learn more during October, which is designated Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

What Is Breast Cancer?

The simplest definition of breast cancer is when cancer cells form in the breast tissue. Breast cancer can impact both men and women, but rates among men are much lower. According to the NBCF, breast cancer is the most common cancer found in women, except for skin cancers. Discovering breast cancer before it spreads outside of the breast tissue leads to better outcomes.

How Is Breast Cancer Detected?

Doctors have many diagnostic tools to find breast cancer, from routine breast examinations to MRIs and ultrasound. Mammograms are considered one of the key tests for breast cancer. A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast tissue. It can be used to screen for signs of breast cancer before you even notice symptoms. If you notice changes in your breast tissue, it’s recommended to speak to your healthcare provider.

What Does Having a Mammogram Feel Like?

During the mammogram, the breast is placed on a plastic plate of a special X-ray machine. Another plate is placed on top of the breast to flatten it and to hold in place while the image is being taken. Images need to be taken of both breasts, one at a time. It only takes a few moments, but it can be uncomfortable. Don’t be scared or afraid of the pain. Technicians do everything they can to minimize the discomfort during a mammogram.

How Often Should You Get a Mammogram?

Guidelines for mammograms and other breast cancer screenings vary based on age and health history. The American Cancer Society recommends women ages 45 to 54 get a mammogram annually, with the choice to start as early as aged 40. You should talk to your healthcare provider about your breast cancer risk and screening tools to know what to look for and when you should get proactive about your health. If you keep putting it off, talk to one of the best mental health providers in Colorado Springs to move past your anxiety. Early detection of breast cancer saves lives.

Make an appointment for a breast cancer screening with medical providers in Colorado Springs & Monument. Take charge of your health. We have a wide range of concierge medical services, from women’s health to psychiatry.

Posted on September 30, 2023August 31, 2023 by Sabrina Brown

Should I Consider Permanent Makeup?

Flying Horse Medical Center | Colorado Springs & Monument | Concierge Medicine, Plastic Surgery, Aesthetics

Should I Consider Permanent Makeup?

Permanent makeup is a type of cosmetic tattoo that creates a flawless, semi-permanent look. Many people are opting for permanent makeup for a variety of reasons:

Poor eyesight/unsteady hands
Unable to find makeup that lasts
Little to no time to put on makeup
Medical reasons

Many millennials are choosing permanent makeup to save themselves time when getting ready for the day or settling in for the night. Permanent makeup is perfectly flawless when you wake up and you don’t have to worry about washing it off at night.

Flying Horse Medical Center offers a variety of aesthetic services including permanent makeup. In this article, we’ll explore a few things to consider when deciding if you should get this cosmetic procedure.

How Does it Work?

Permanent makeup, also referred to as micro-pigmentation, is done with a pen containing iron oxide, which tattoos the skin, creating the appearance of makeup. It can be used for a variety of things including:

Creating the appearance of lipstick or eyeliner
Creating darker, thicker eyebrows
Camouflage scars
Create an even hairline

Who May Want Permanent Makeup?

Permanent makeup is a great option for busy professionals who don’t have time to apply a full face of makeup every day. In addition, patients with medical conditions including Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, cataracts, arthritis, or have suffered a stroke may be interested in this procedure. Finally, with so many allergies, many people can’t wear traditional makeup. Permanent makeup is a viable alternative.

What are the Risks Associated with Permanent Makeup?

Overall, permanent makeup is safe, and recovery usually only takes about 3 to 5 days.

The primary risks are allergic reaction and infection. However, you can mitigate these risks by verifying that you do not have an allergy to any of the products being used. Also, make sure that you use a professional that you can trust such as the aestheticians at Flying Horse Medical Center.

How Much Does it Cost?

The cost varies based on the complexity of the work and the experience/expertise of the practitioner you are working with. Since it is a cosmetic procedure, most insurance providers will not cover it.

How to Find a Practitioner

Permanent makeup is a great option for busy professionals who don’t have time to put on a full face of makeup every day or who are allergic to traditional cosmetics.

If you are interested in permanent makeup, you’ll want to find someone who understands how it works and is familiar with the process. You’ll want to ask a few questions including:

How long have you been doing this procedure?
Can I view your credentials?
Can I see photos of your previous clients?

In addition, you’ll want to make sure that you know your skin type. The aestheticians at Flying Horse Medical Center offer permanent tattoos along with a variety of additional services. Schedule your consultation today to find out what we can do for you. We will be happy to create a plan that you will be happy with.

Posted on September 15, 2023December 19, 2023 by Sabrina Brown

Breast Enhancement with or without Implants

Breast Augmentation-Plastic Surgery Flying Horse Medical Center

Breast Enhancement with or without Implants

Dr. Millicent Geers

Natural Breast Augmentation in Monument, Colorado Springs, and Castle Rock, Colorado is also known as Breast Augmentation with Fat, Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation, or No-Implant Breast Augmentation.

Natural Breast Augmentation involves taking fat from one area of your body — abdomen, flanks/love handles, back, thighs, and/or arms — and then gently and carefully injecting this fat into your breasts. Meticulous Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Millicent Geers, has refined her fat transfer technique over many years resulting in hundreds of happy patients.

Breast enhancement that uses fat instead of implants has many advantages over using implants. However, there are also disadvantages. Continue reading for a concise overview of the pros and cons of different types of Breast Augmentation performed by Dr. Geers in Monument, Colorado Springs, and Castle Rock, Colorado.

Breast Augmentation With Implants

Pros:

What you see is what you get. The implant volume you select is the volume that will remain. With fat transfer, some of the fat will be reabsorbed before stabilizing at a certain volume and your breast fat volume may also fluctuate with your weight.
Barring complications such as infection or capsular contracture and/or selecting an unsatisfactory implant volume, breast enhancement with implants requires one initial surgery to achieve your desired breast volume. Natural Breast Augmentation may require more than one fat transfer to achieve your desired volume goal and requires both liposuction and fat transfer.

Cons:

In some women, breast implants may cause systemic symptoms such as joint pain, brain fog, and fatigue. This is known as Breast Implant Illness (BII) or Autoimmune Syndrome Induced by Adjuvants (ASIA). Implant removal is usually the remedy and may not alleviate all symptoms.
It is normal and expected for a capsule to form around your breast implants. In rare cases, cancers of this capsule can occur with either smooth or textured implants. Treatment of these cancers is surgery to remove the implants and capsule.
Implant rupture or deflation can occur. The risk of rupture or deflation increases every year you have your implants. Treatment for rupture or deflated implants is surgery.
You may experience thickening and tightening of the capsule around the implant. This is called capsular contracture and can lead to breast pain and deformation. Treatment for this condition is additional surgery.
The FDA recommends either ultrasound or MRI every 5-6 years to detect for silent implant rupture for silicone-filled implants. This is usually not covered by insurance.
Breast implants can make it harder for the doctor to see the breast tissue on a mammogram, so extra pictures are usually needed. Moving your breast tissue away from the implant to get a better breast x-ray may be more difficult if the implant pocket is above the muscle instead of under the muscle.
Breast implants are not a lifetime device. You will likely need another surgery in the future for removal, exchange, or other breast surgery.

Natural Breast Augmentation

Pros:

No need to worry about future implant exchange or removal as fat is natural and unlike implants, last a lifetime.
No concern about Breast Implant Illness (BII) or or Autoimmune Syndrome Induced by Adjuvant (ASIA).
No concern about painful capsular contracture.
No need for ultrasound or MRIs that are usually NOT covered by insurance.
No need for additional breast surgery for volume unless you are not satisfied with the volume gained by your initial surgery.
May fluctuate with your weight which means your breast volume may remain proportional to your body.
No need to worry about future implant exchange or removal as fat is natural and unlike implants, last a lifetime.

Cons:

Volume will vary. No definitive volume can be determined beforehand. For example, 400 cc of fat can be injected and perhaps 200-280 cc will stick around long term.
Risk of fat nodules or lumps. These are benign (non-cancerous), but may be anxiety-producing if you are at higher risk for breast cancer and do not like feeling lumps in your breast. Even if you are not at increased risk for breast cancer, feeling breast lumps may be disconcerting.
Calcifications after breast surgery, including Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation may occur. These will appear on mammogram. Calcifications seen on mammogram can also occur with breast cancer. There is generally a difference in the pattern or distribution of calcifications due to breast cancer versus those due to fat grafting. Radiologists have become more experienced evaluating mammograms after fat transfer procedures and can usually distinguish between concerning versus non-concerning calcifications. In some cases, however, additional imaging studies, such as an MRI, or a biopsy may be necessary to make a distinction.

With either type of breast enhancement, you should:

Continue your monthly self-breast exams.
Continue your regular breast clinical exams with your doctor.
Continue your regular breast screening regimen with either mammogram and/or MRI.
Know that both approaches can affect the results of mammography.

Schedule a Consult

If you would like breast enhancement, but are unsure of which surgery is best for you, call 719-633-5255 to make an appointment for an in-depth, tailored-for-you consultation with Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Millicent Geers.

Posted on August 30, 2023September 27, 2023 by Sabrina Brown

What you need to know about BOTOX®

Looking for a way to turn back the clock on your appearance? Now with Botox®, you may have found what you were looking for.

What is Botox® ?

Botox® is an injectable treatment that has become a buzzword in the world of cosmetic procedures. With millions of people around the world opting for Botox® to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, it’s no wonder this minimally invasive treatment has become so popular. But what exactly is Botox® , and how does it work? In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at Botox® and everything you need to know before considering the treatment.

Botox® has been in the cosmetic industry for since 1991 when the rights were sold to Allergan by an Ophthalmologist (eye surgeon). He used a tamed form of botulism toxin (Botox® ) to help a patient that had three failed double vision operations. 40 years ago, Alan Scott became the hailed father of Botox® as his experiment was successful.

Medical Use for Botox®

Using Botox® for medical purposes is no accident. There is research still done today to understand the benefits this toxin has on muscles in the face and body.

“Botox® is formed by spores of the bacteria Clostridium botulinum, which is found naturally in sediments as well as the intestinal tracts to some animals and fish. The drug binds itself to receptors in skeletal muscle, nerve endings, the brain and some smooth muscle, preventing the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, by blocking nerves from sending signals to the muscle to contract, Botox® essentially paralyzes the muscles for short-term periods.”

It was found when using the neurotoxin, Botox® remains confined to the targeted area and had no side effects. This allowed physicians at the time to discover different uses of similar toxins to help correct other eye muscle spasms. Botox® is used for several different medical purposes such as: migraines, neck and muscle spasms, lazy eye, overly sweating and prevention of hair loss.

Botox® research continues today, and in the future may be used to treat depression, chronic pain and even obesity. So, let’s not judge a face by its Botox® and keep an open mind about this interesting universal neurotoxin!

Cosmetic Use for Botox®

In the realm of cosmetics, Botox® injections are primarily used to temporarily reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles and lines caused by muscle movement. Here are some common cosmetic uses for Botox®:

Wrinkles and Fine Lines: Botox® is often used to treat dynamic wrinkles, which are wrinkles that appear when you make certain facial expressions, like frowning or smiling. It works by temporarily relaxing the muscles that cause these wrinkles, leading to a smoother and more youthful appearance.
Forehead Lines: Botox® can be injected into the forehead muscles to reduce horizontal lines that form when you raise your eyebrows or make other facial expressions.
Frown Lines (Glabellar Lines): These are the vertical lines that appear between your eyebrows when you frown. Botox® injections can help smooth out these lines by relaxing the muscles responsible for creating them.
Crow’s Feet: These are the lines that radiate from the corners of your eyes when you smile. Botox® can be used to soften these lines and create a more youthful appearance.
Bunny Lines: These are diagonal lines that appear on the sides of the nose when you scrunch it up, often seen when you smile. Botox® can be used to reduce the appearance of these lines.
Jaw Contouring: Botox® injections can be used to slim the jawline by relaxing the masseter muscles, which can reduce the appearance of a square or overly developed jaw.
Chin Dimpling: Botox® can help smooth out dimples or “pebble chin” that can appear on the chin area when you talk or make certain facial expressions.
Neck Bands: Botox® injections in the neck area can help reduce the appearance of vertical bands or lines that form as a result of muscle contractions.

It’s important to note that the effects of Botox® are temporary, typically lasting around 3 to 6 months, after which follow-up injections are needed to maintain the desired results. Botox® injections should be performed by trained medical professionals to ensure safety and proper administration.

As with any cosmetic procedure, it’s important to have a thorough consultation with a qualified medical professional to discuss your goals, expectations, and any potential risks or side effects associated with Botox® injections.

Visit Flying Horse Medical Center
At Flying Horse Medical Center, we offer aesthetic consultations to help you determine the best treatments to achieve your beauty goals. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation with one of our aesthetic providers.

Posted on August 16, 2023December 19, 2023 by Sabrina Brown

Plastic Surgery Consults: Fee vs Free

Dr. Millicent Geers

As you have likely noticed when researching plastic surgery, consultation fee pricing runs the gamut. This understandably leaves many patients wondering, should plastic surgeons charge consultation fees?

Meeting the Surgeon

As you can imagine, plastic surgeons invest a considerable amount of time and energy into their potential patients during a consultation. During the consultation, the plastic surgeon not only reviews your medical history to make sure you are a good candidate for surgery, but she will also review the procedure you are interested in as well as the alternatives, benefits, risks, and potential complications. The plastic surgeon will also answer your questions. This takes time and expertise.

If your initial consultation is not with a Plastic Surgeon, that should be a red flag. Does it really make sense for a non-medical person to review your medical history and create a surgical plan tailored for you? Meeting your surgeon on the day of your procedure is not ideal. What if the surgeon does not have the same vision as you do for your transformation? What if the surgeon has never encountered your particular issue? You will likely feel pressure to proceed as you’ve already paid for your surgery and have made arrangements for time off and your aftercare. This is not an ideal scenario.

Let’s look at this another way. If your vehicle is in need of repair, would you rather talk to the cashier or some other non-mechanic personnel about the diagnosis and what should be done to repair your vehicle or would you rather discuss your vehicle’s needs with the mechanic? Why should it be any different when it comes to your body? It should be even more essential to talk to the Plastic Surgeon at your initial consultation. You can get a new car — you can’t get a new body. When it comes to determining the correct procedure to meet your aesthetic goals, it should not be a non-Plastic Surgeon discussing your diagnosis and surgical plan. The Plastic Surgeon actually performing your surgery, not a “representative,” should be sitting with you face-to-face to discuss not only your surgery, but what to expect as well.

What to expect in your consultation

Sometimes potential patients balk at paying a consultation fee. Remember that when you meet with the Plastic Surgeon, she is using her knowledge and expertise to evaluate your specific situation. And with the majority of Plastic Surgeons, including Dr. Geers, your consult fee will be applied to your surgery if you elect to move forward. And even if you don’t move forward with surgery, know that you didn’t leave with “nothing” or “waste” your time if you paid a fee. The information provided during a consultation is invaluable in helping you make the right final decision for you.

The consultation is probably one of the most important steps in your entire plastic surgery journey. Dr. Geers performs all consultations herself and there are limited consultation spots available a week. During that visit, Dr. Geers will take the time to understand specifically what your concerns are and what you are hoping to achieve with surgery. She will also perform a detailed history and physical exam and review with you a customized surgical plan. In addition, she will describe the procedures with you in detail and answer all your questions.

If you’re serious about plastic surgery, a consultation fee that is a small percentage of what you will pay for your procedure should not be a barrier. A patient willing to pay the consultation fee lets the Plastic Surgeon know you are dedicated to improving your appearance with cosmetic surgery and that you respect the Plastic Surgeon’s time. A Plastic Surgeon is a professional with years of education, training, and experience. Like an Attorney or Accountant, it is fair and reasonable for a Plastic Surgeon to be compensated for the time devoted to your questions and concerns.

Dr. Geers’ thorough consultation process not only carries over to her surgical technique, but also to her meticulous postoperative care. Dr. Geers’ care for you doesn’t end when she puts down the scalpel and places the last stitch. Dr. Geers personally evaluates you at each of your postoperative appointments. She doesn’t turn postoperative care over to a “representative.” With Dr. Geers, you’re not just paying for a surgery, you’re paying for an experience.

Call 719-633-5255 to schedule your detailed consultation with Colorado Springs Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Millicent Geers.

Posted on August 1, 2023August 16, 2023 by Sabrina Brown

Are Vitamins and Supplements worth taking?

Are Vitamins and Supplements worth taking?

Since their introduction to the market in the 1940s, millions of Americans have been taking vitamins and supplements. Some of the most common reasons include:

Combat a vitamin deficiency
Reduce risk of certain health conditions
Improve overall health and wellness

When it comes to vitamins and supplements, it seems like everywhere you look, someone has advice on what you should try next. However, the medical providers at Flying Horse Medical Center in Colorado Springs & Monument want to help you understand that while vitamins and supplements do have benefits, there are some that can be harmful.

In this article, we’ll explain 5 things you need to know about vitamins and supplements for enhancing your health and wellness.

Who is Taking Vitamins and Supplements?

Research shows that:

Approximately 1/3 of Americans are taking some type of vitamin supplement
Approximately 30% of the 65+ population are taking 4 or more supplements
40% of vitamin sales are multivitamin/mineral supplements
The most popular supplement contains DHA, EPA, or omega-3 fatty acids or fish oil

5 Things You Need to Know

If you are considering taking vitamin supplements for your overall health and well-being, it’s important to understand a few things. Below are 5 things you need to know about vitamin supplements.

Supplements are available in a variety of forms

Supplements come in a variety of forms: pill, liquid, or powder. The end goal is the same- to supplement nutrition and improve your health. These supplements usually contain at least one of the following:

Vitamins/minerals
Herbs
Enzymes
Amino acids
Botanicals

The most popular options are multi-vitamins but they can also be purchased as a standalone supplement as well. The common denominator is that they are labeled as “dietary supplements.”

Are supplements really worth taking?

While vitamins and supplements are not a “magic” cure for everyone, there is some evidence that they do at least sometimes work. If a particular vitamin or supplement is not necessarily beneficial for you, the good news is that there is little to no risk to your health.

Billions of dollars have been spent on researching vitamins and supplements and, unfortunately, the evidence is not completely clear. Most studies suggest that while they may offer some benefits, vitamins will not reduce your chances of developing certain medical conditions, slow cognitive decline, or improve your life expectancy.

In fact, it is against the law for vitamin and supplement companies to make these types of claims. Also, keep in mind that most of the products you find in-store or online are different from those that are used in the studies.

Supplements are not always safe

While most research indicates that vitamins and supplements are not harmful, it’s still important to be cautious about what you put in your body.

According to medical experts, some supplements can interact with medications you are taking or can be harmful if you have certain medical conditions. Additionally, most of the studies have not included pregnant or nursing women or children. Therefore, these populations may need to take extra precautions.

Finally, the regulations on vitamins and supplements are not as stringent as those on prescription medications. Sometimes, there may be unsafe ingredients present that are not listed on the label. Also, some products are marketed as dietary supplements that actually contain prescription drugs that are not allowed in these products.

Discuss supplement usage with your medical provider

When choosing a dietary supplement, it’s important to be smart about it. Since the safety and effectiveness of a supplement depend on your current health and medications, it’s important to discuss your usage with your medical provider.

In addition, keep the following in mind:

Follow the directions on the label as well as your medical provider’s advice
Carefully check labels for ingredients, percent daily value, and drug interactions
Be wary of extreme claims
Natural does not mean safe
Store supplements properly, out of reach of children
Be aware of the dangers of weight-loss supplements

Nothing is as nutritious as a healthy diet

Regardless of your goal when taking vitamins and supplements, nothing has the same impact as a healthy diet. The primary purpose of a supplement is to enhance your healthy diet and lifestyle. You should never use a supplement as an alternative to real food.

Schedule Your Wellness Exam at Flying Horse Medical Center Today

Your body requires vitamins and minerals to develop and function as it should. Typically, you can get everything you need with a healthy diet. However, some people need a little boost- which is where supplements come in.

If you have questions or concerns about supplement usage, let the medical providers at Flying Horse Medical Center in Colorado Springs & Monument help. We offer a variety of medical and psychiatry services for patients of all ages.